June 17, 2019 NASEinc Blog: Dynamic Calf Strength and Sprint Performance

June  17, 2019 by NASE

Abstract 
Sprinting represents a result-relevant task in many sports. The correlation of sprinting performance and one-repetition maximum (1RM) in a squat has been assumed as assured. Results of the correlation with 1RM of the plantar flexors are still pending. Assuming an increasing relevance of the reactive working capacity with increasing distance, a decrease of the influence of maximum strength of the calves is conceivable.We investigated the correlation of 1RM in a calf raise and sprint performance in consecutive sections up to 30 meters. The results showed medium to strong, very significant correlations (p < 0.01) for absolute (r = −0.483 to r = −0.720) and relative (r = −0.460 to −0.577) strength, whereas an increase of the correlation throughout the course is observed.
The dynamic maximum strength of the calves is a basic prerequisite for short sprints and should be regarded as a performance reserve. 
Reference 
Sabastian Mock, Rene Hartman, Klaus Wirth, Gregor Rosenkranz, and Christoph Mickel. 2019. Correlation of dynamic strength in the standing calf raise with sprinting performance in consecutive sections up to 30 meters.  Research in Sports Medicine An International Journal Volume 26, 2018 – Issue 4