Comparison of peak power output during exercises with similar lower-limb kinematics

Objectives: The aim of this investigation was to compare peak power between the mid-thigh power clean, squat jump and push press. Design and Methods: Eleven recreationally trained men (age 22.2 ± 3.5 yrs; height 178.6 ± 8.5 cm; body mass 88.7 ± 13.5 kg) performed one set of three repetitions of the mid-thigh power clean, squat jump and push press, with 50, 60 and 70% of respective 1RM, while standing on two force platforms. The effect of load and lift on peak power was analyzed with two-way analysis of variance. Results: Peak power was highest during mid-thigh power clean (4739.2 ± 1015.8 W), but was not significantly higher than the squat jump (4430.4 ± 1140.3 W, Cohen’s d = 0.29) and push press (4071.1 ± 1552.3 W, Cohen’s d = 0.51) performed at equivalent intensities. Similarly, the load effect on peak power was non-significant and trivial (Cohen’s d < 0.35). Conclusions: The findings of this study show that when training to maximize peak power output the mid-thigh power clean, squat jump and push press performed at 50-70% of 1RM could be incorporated interchangeably without any detriment to peak power output