Research summary · Training and performance
Lower velocity-loss thresholds show small speed–power benefits
This review synthesized 12 randomized trials and 42 effect sizes comparing lower and higher velocity-loss thresholds in trained populations. Programs lasted 4–11 weeks and mostly used lower-body resistance exercises, with jump and sprint tests as outcomes.
- Publication year
- 2026
- First published online
- Publication type
- Systematic review and three-level meta-analysis of randomized trials
- Journal
- Frontiers in Physiology
- Population / context
- Strength training · Sprinting · Jumping · Multiple sports
What the publication reports
Lower thresholds had a small pooled advantage for combined jump and sprint performance (Hedges’ g 0.29, 95% CI 0.17–0.42). Evidence was clearer for countermovement jumps and 10- and 30-metre sprints; squat-jump and 20-metre sprint findings were nonsignificant. Moderator analyses did not identify a superior frequency, duration or threshold difference.
Limits and interpretation
All trials had some risk-of-bias concerns, samples were generally small and interventions short. Subgroups had limited statistical power, and training-volume differences may contribute to effects. These results do not establish one universally optimal threshold or superiority for strength and hypertrophy goals.
Read the source
Consult the original record for the full author list, methods, references, funding and competing-interest disclosures.
Effects of different velocity loss thresholds during resistance training on jump and sprint performance in trained populations: a systematic review and three-level meta-analysis.
Original publication / indexed recordPMID: 42903080DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2026.1893020Full text at the sourceReader discussion
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