Perception of Velocity during Free-Weight Exercises: Difference between Back Squat and Bench Press

Abstract

The perception of bar velocity (PV) is a subjective parameter useful in estimating velocity during resistance training. The aim of this study was to investigate if the PV can be improved through specific training sessions, if it differs between the back squat (SQ) and bench press (BP), and if there are differences in perception accuracy in the different intensity zones. Resistance-trained participants were randomly divided in an experimental (EG, n = 16) or a control group (CG, n = 14). After a familiarization trial, both groups were tested before and after 5 weeks of training. The PV was assessed with five blinded loads covering different intensity domains. During the training period, only the EG group received velocity feedback for each repetition. Prior to training, both groups showed a greater PV accuracy in the SQ than in the BP. Post training, the EG showed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the delta score (the difference between the real and perceived velocity) for both exercises, while no significant differences were observed in the CG. Prior to training, the perceived velocity was more accurate at higher loads for both exercises, while no difference between loads was observed after training (EG). The results of this study demonstrate that the PV improves with specific training and that differences in the accuracy between loads and exercise modes seen prior to training are leveled off after training.

Concurrent and Predictive Validity of an Exercise-Specific Scale for the Perception of Velocity in the Back Squat

“…The lower the ds the more accurate the perceived velocity. The values obtained are graphically reported in Figure 2 , which clearly show that in line with previous studies [ 16 ] the lower ds is reported at heavy loads while the light and medium loads had similar values over the 3 days. No significant differences in Day x Intensity interaction were seen, showing how the ds does not change in the different experimental sessions.…”

“…A positive value indicates an overestimation while a negative value indicates an underestimation of the real velocity. The closer this parameter is to zero, the higher the precision of individual perception [ 16 ]. Figure 2 shows the trend of the delta score for each of the 3 intensities in the 3 days analyzed.…”

“…The authors reported that after only 1 familiarization session, a high correlation was found between Vr and Vp. However, a following study demonstrated that, the accuracy of the perception of velocity can be further improved [ 16 ]. In fact, the accuracy of the perceived velocity was tested (on squat and bench press in the same session) after only 1 day of familiarization and after 5 weeks (2 sessions per week) of combined training with PV scales and linear encoders.…”

“…Each participant underwent a maximal incremental test for squat exercise performed with free weights, 48–72 h after the familiarization sessions. The required execution and test protocol are the same used in a previous investigation [ 16 ]. Briefly, the increases in load were assessed based on the mean velocity of the barbell.…”

“…It was later shown that this subjective parameter still shows room for improvement. Romagnoli et al [ 16 ] in fact reported that 5 weeks of specific training utilizing an electronic device and the PV scale increased the accuracy of the perception of barbell velocity compared to baseline values.…”