Comparative effects of weightlifting derivatives and traditional resistance training on force-velocity profile characteristics in mixed martial arts athletes

This study compared the effects of weightlifting derivatives versus traditional resistance training on optimizing force-velocity profile (FVP) characteristics in mixed martial arts (MMA) athletes exhibiting force deficits. Thirty-five male athletes exhibiting force deficits in FVP testing were randomly assigned to a weightlifting derivatives training group (n = 20) or a traditional resistance training group (n = 15). Both groups completed a 10-week intervention. Key performance metrics were assessed pre- and post-intervention. The FVP was determined from loaded squat jumps to derive theoretical maximal force (F0), velocity (v0), and theoretical maximal power output (Pmax). Additional outcome variables included countermovement jump (CMJ) height, isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) for peak force and 250 ms rate of force development (RFD), and landmine punch throw (LPT) peak power. The weightlifting derivatives training group showed more favorable adaptations in Pmax, increased by 5.11 ± 5.65% compared with a decrease of −6.46 ± 5.86% in the traditional group (p < 0.001), as well as significantly greater improvements in CMJ height (13.81 ± 7.11%, p = 0.004) and IMTP peak force (13.12 ± 8.25%, p = 0.027). For MMA athletes exhibiting force deficits, these findings indicate weightlifting derivatives training may be useful for improving Pmax and selected explosive performance outcomes, whereas traditional resistance training may produce greater force-oriented adaptations.