Training load manipulation in a single workout session can increase or decrease training effectiveness in terms of athlete's strength or power gains. In ski jumping the complex training that elicits maximal power gains may take advantage of the post activation potentiation mechanism (PAP). The aim of research was to evaluate the changes in rate of force development (RFD), rate of power development (RPD) and jump height during a complex training session consisted of the barbell half squat (Sq) as an conditioning exercise with loads ranged between 60-100% of 1 repetition maximum (1RM), followed by a body weight squat jump (SqJ) as a performance task. The study was conducted with 16 elite athletes from the Polish National Ski Jumping Team, age 23±8 years, body mass 56±9kg, height 172±12cm. Complex training session started with the Sq at 60% of 1RM as the conditioning exercise followed by 3min rest and the SqJ. The conditioning barbell half Sq was performed with 70%, 80%, 90% and 100% of 1RM respectively with 5min rest. The differences in RFD occurred between a SqJ following the application of 80% of 1RM and all other SqJs (p=0.01), and in RPD between SqJ without conditioning, SqJ following 60% of 1RM and 80% of 1RM (p=0.02). On average, the most effective load in inducing PAP during ski jumpers SqJ training is 80% of 1RM. The intensity of the conditioning exercise that elicits the greatest PAP effect should be individualized (60-100% 1RM), as it is dependent on the level of maximal strength.

The presented review presents the results of current research on the use of PAP during resistance training of soccer players. Researchers who have examined the mechanism behind PAP following complex strength training, have established a relationship between post-activation potentiation and improvements in speed and explosive strength of athletes. Most of the presented papers in this review have confirmed the effectiveness of PAP in eliciting performance in tasks requiring speed, jumping ability and agility in soccer players. These studies were discussed in detail in terms of research groups, methods, training means and study results. Many of these publications have also considered the aspect of rest intervals between the conditioning exercise and the subsequent explosive activity. Most authors indicate the necessity to individualize the time of the rest interval, depending on the athletes training status, strength level and most of all on the intensity and volume of the conditioning exercise. Some scientists have also attempted to incorporate PAP into warm-up protocols, especially prior to speed and power training sessions. A two-way analysis of the impact of PAP, separately on sprint speed and power of the players. The focus was on demonstrating the positive or negative impact of activating exercises on the two variables discussed. The last part of the paper presents the conclusions drawn based on the results of the studies and suggests the objectives of future research. Most publications have documented the results for male participants, whereas little data is available regarding the use of PAP in female soccer players.

No abstract