ABSTRACT: The barbell hip thrust has historically been associated with the aesthetics of mainstream strength training; however in recent years due to recent studies, this exercise has started to gain respect amongst coaches and athletes looking to improve sprint performance.
The purpose of this review was to investigate the relationship between the barbell hip thrust and sprint performance in sport. Also, this review looked to resolve what is the most effective approach of incorporating the barbell hip thrust in order to improve sprint performance at most levels of sport. A literature search was completed using Google Scholar database using keywords, which resulted in eleven key studies being included in this review.
Conclusion: From the combined outcomes of these studies, several conclusions can be made:
–Increased strength and power in the barbell hip thrust exercise leads to improved sprint performance over the initial acceleration phase up to 40 meters, especially in athletes with a small training age.
–Anteroposterior-based exercises, specifically the barbell hip thrust, are related to the initial acceleration phase mores than the vertically-directed exercises.
–Barbell hip thrust training with 60-80% loads for 2-6 sets and 3-6 repetitions once a week can improve sprint times.
Coaching Application: Strength and conditioning professionals should consider incorporating the barbell hip thrust into periodized training plans to develop sprint performance in athletes. The barbell hip thrust can significantly improve sprint performance over 10m – 40m distances in sport, with the appropriate periodized programming according to training age and athlete level.
Source: Peter J Mamo Randwick, Sydney, Australia Review of the Literature. The Relationship Between the Barbell Hip Thrust snd Sprint Performance. 2019.
