Superiority of the Distance-Averaged Force-Velocity Relationship to Predict Jump Height and Guide Individualized Training

The force–velocity (F–V) relationship model is widely used to describe jump performance and guide individualized training based on time-averaged force and velocity during squat jumps. However, recent studies have raised questions regarding its validity, which assumes that the average force values during squat jumps are equal when averaged over both distance and time. To address this limitation, we propose a novel F–V relationship model based on distance-averaged force and velocity. The validity and practical applicability of this method and the traditional time-averaged method for estimating mean force, velocity, and predicting jump height were evaluated in 40 male participants. Results showed that the predictive errors in the distance-averaged method were less than 2.5 %, which was lower compared with the traditional time-averaged method. The simulation showed that increases in maximal force (F₀), maximal velocity (v₀), and a greater push-off distance (hₚₒ) were all associated with improvements in jump height. The simulation further revealed that improvements in jump height for the same percentage changes in F₀ or v₀ might vary considerably. These findings suggest that the distance-averaged F–V relationship can serve as a more accurate and individualized tool for predicting jump height and enhancing jump performance.