Is mechanical power a valid and relevant parameter to control resistance training?
Author Identifier (ORCID)
G. Gregory Haff: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0676-7750
Abstract
– Puschkasch-Möck, S, Haff, GG, Behringer, M, and Wirth, K. Is mechanical power a valid and relevant parameter to control resistance training? J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2026—Theoretical models of the force–velocity and force–length relationships suggest that maximal mechanical power occurs at an intermediate load and velocity. This concept has led to the widespread use of optimal power load prescriptions in resistance training. This review critically evaluates whether mechanical power is a valid and relevant parameter for controlling resistance training, particularly in the context of improving athletic performance. Although several studies report neuromuscular adaptations after power-oriented training, the generalizability of these findings is limited by short intervention durations, participants with low training status, and inconsistent measurement protocols. Moreover, methodological limitations in estimating mechanical power during complex, multijoint movements raise doubts about its physiologic and functional validity. Evidence from research in biomechanics, muscle architecture, and neural control indicates that maximal strength remains the dominant predictor of mechanical power production and sport performance. The concept of training at the optimal power load fails to account for sport-specific demands, individual force–velocity characteristics, and the principle of task specificity. Instead, a periodized approach prioritizing maximal strength development, followed by ballistic and speed-oriented exercises, is recommended for long-term power development. In conclusion, although mechanical power may offer some value for short-term monitoring or block structuring, it lacks the robustness and specificity required for load control in performance-oriented resistance training.
Keywords
Ballistic training, explosive strength, loading strategy, strength training, task specificity, weightlifting
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
1-1-2026
PubMed ID
41678794
Publication Title
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
Publisher
National Strength and Conditioning Association
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences
Copyright
subscription content
Comments
Puschkasch-Möck, S., Haff, G. G., Behringer, M., & Wirth, K. (2026). Is mechanical power a valid and relevant parameter to control resistance training? The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 40(3), 356–365. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000005411