Half Squat Mechanical Analysis based on PBT Framework

Muscular strength is an essential factor in sports performance and general health, especially for optimizing mechanical power, as well as for injury prevention. The present study biomechanically characterized the half squat (HS) using a systemic-structural approach based on mechanical power, called Power-Based Training (PBT), through which four phases of the movement were determined (acceleration and deceleration in descent, acceleration and deceleration in ascent). Five weightlifters from the Mexican national team (categories U17, U20 and U23) participated, who performed 5 repetitions per serie of HS with progressive loads (20%, 35%, 50%, 65% and 80% of the 1RM). The behavior of the CoM of the subject-bar system was recorded by photogrammetry, calculating position, velocity, acceleration, mechanical power and mechanical work. The results showed a significant reduction in velocity, acceleration and mechanical power as the load increases, as well as variations in the duration and range of displacement per phase. These findings evidence the importance of a detailed analysis to understand the neuromuscular demands of MS and to optimize its training. The PBT approach and global CoM analysis provide a more accurate view of the mechanics of this exercise, facilitating its application in future research, as well as in performance planning and monitoring.