The effect of resisted sprint training on force-velocity profile change: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Author Identifier (ORCID)
Arjan Dougan: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4776-1387
Christopher Latella: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5857-9671
Tsuyoshi Nagatani: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2187-157X
G. Gregory Haff: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0676-7750
Abstract
Abstract: Dougan, A, Latella, C, Nagatani, T, Lockie, RG, O'Brien, E, and Haff, GG. The effect of resisted sprint training on force-velocity profile change: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 39(11): 1203-1215, 2025-This meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of resisted sprint training (RST) compared with unresisted sprint training (URST) programs to positively influence horizontal force-velocity (F-V) profile variables and acceleration performance in trained individuals. Searches were conducted through PubMed, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus without year restriction. Included studies (a) used RST by towing/pushing a load as a training modality, (b) were published in a scientific journal, (c) were published in English, (d) were an original intervention, (e) measured pre- and postintervention horizontal F-V profiles, (f) identified training parameters including RST load used, (g) the training intervention was ≥4 weeks in duration or ≥8 sessions, and (h) included a control group that performed URST. After screening, 7 studies met the inclusion criteria. Raw data (mean ± SD or range) were extracted, and standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for all outcomes. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Resisted sprint training significantly improved force (SMD = 0.47, CI: [0.12-0.83], p = 0.002), power (SMD = 0.53 [0.17-0.88], p < 0.001), RF peak (SMD = 0.70 [0.03-1.37], p = 0.029), and 5 m (SMD = -0.81 [-1.26 to 0.36], p < 0.001), 10 m (SMD = -0.80 [-1.39 to 0.21], p = 0.007), and 20 m sprint performance (SMD = -1.09 [-1.60 to 0.59], p < 0.001) during sprinting when compared with URST. Resisted sprint training represents an efficient means to increase key horizontal F-V profile variables. The findings suggest that RST may complement or be favored over URST to improve early-to-mid acceleration performance, horizontal force, or power, but further research is required in elite sprint athletes and to determine the effect that RST load and volume have on the adaptability of the F-V profile.
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
11-1-2025
Volume
39
Issue
11
PubMed ID
40961280
Publication Title
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
Publisher
National Strength and Conditioning Association
School
Centre for Precision Health / School of Medical and Health Sciences
RAS ID
88250
Copyright
free_to_read
First Page
1203
Last Page
1215
Comments
Dougan, A., Latella, C., Nagatani, T., Lockie, R. G., O’Brien, E. K., & Haff, G. G. (2025). The effect of resisted sprint training on force-velocity profile change: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 39(11), 1203–1215. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000005205