Effects of neuromuscular strength training on vertical jumping performance- A computer simulation study

The purpose of this study was twofold: (a) to systematically investigate th e effect of altering specific neuromuscular parameters on maximum vertical jump height, and (b) to systematically investigate the effect of strengthen ing specific muscle groups on maximum vertical jump height. A two-dimension al musculoskeletal model which consisted of four rigid segments, three join ts, and six Hill-type muscle models, representing the six major muscles and muscle groups in the lower extremity that contribute to jumping performanc e, was trained systematically. Maximum isometric muscle force, maximum musc le shortening velocity, and maximum muscle activation, which were manipulat ed to simulate the effects of strength training, all had substantial effect s on jumping performance. Part of the increase in jumping performance could be explained solely by the interaction between the three neuromuscular par ameters. It appeared that the most effective way to improve jumping perform ance was to train the knee extensors among all lower extremity muscles. For the model to fully benefit from any training effects of the neuromuscular system, it was necessary to continue to reoptimize the muscle coordination, in particular after the strength training sessions that focused on increas ing maximum isometric muscle force.