Work

Power Training Methods Across the Load–Velocity Continuum: Mechanisms, Applications, and Periodization

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Muscular power is a critical determinant of athletic performance. Despite the wide range of resistance training methods proposed to enhance power, uncertainty remains regarding their physiological rationale, practical applications, and optimal integration within long-term training programs. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the principal resistance training methods for muscular power development and provides an evidence-informed framework for exercise selection and periodized programming. A structured literature search was conducted using PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus, complemented by additional sources and reference screening. Seventeen studies were retained for the evidence mapping, while systematic reviews, meta-analyses, position stands, and narrative reviews were used to provide conceptual background and contextual interpretation. No formal study-level methodological quality appraisal was performed; therefore, the findings were interpreted as an evidence-informed narrative synthesis rather than an evidence-graded assessment of training-method effectiveness. Current evidence indicates that different resistance training methods target specific regions of the load-velocity continuum through distinct neuromuscular adaptations. Heavy resistance training primarily enhances maximal force production, whereas ballistic training, Olympic weightlifting derivatives, velocity-based training, optimal power load, cluster sets, variable resistance, isometric training, eccentric overload, complex-contrast training, and triphasic training provide complementary stimuli for optimizing muscular power through different approaches. Overall, the evidence supports integrating complementary resistance training methods within a periodized program tailored to the athlete's training status, sport-specific demands, and competitive calendar to maximize power development.

Source: Sports

DOI: 10.3390/sports14100464

Authors: Manuel Pinto, João Crisóstomo, Robson Silva, Christopher Kirk, Javier Abián-Vicén, Luís Monteiro