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Things to keep in mind when selecting physical assessments in youth soccer: Correlations between test performances, interlimb asymmetries, and effects of maturation (2024)
Journal Article
Robles-Palazón, F. J., McMahon, J. J., Ayala, F., & Comfort, P. (2024). Things to keep in mind when selecting physical assessments in youth soccer: Correlations between test performances, interlimb asymmetries, and effects of maturation. PLoS ONE, 19(6), e0305570. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0305570

A range of field-based tests have been proposed for inclusion in physical performance assessment batteries. However, there are obvious time and human resources constraints in applied settings. The knowledge of potential relationships between tests on... Read More about Things to keep in mind when selecting physical assessments in youth soccer: Correlations between test performances, interlimb asymmetries, and effects of maturation.

Effect of Sampling Frequency on a Unilateral Isometric Hamstring Strength Assessment Using Force Plates (2024)
Journal Article
Ripley, N., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2024). Effect of Sampling Frequency on a Unilateral Isometric Hamstring Strength Assessment Using Force Plates. #Journal not on list, https://doi.org/10.1007/s42978-024-00277-w

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of sampling frequency on the 90-90 (90-degrees hip and knee flexion) isometric hamstring assessment. Thirty-three elite female soccer players (age: 18.7 ± 3.7 years; height: 158.3 ± 5.9 cm; body m... Read More about Effect of Sampling Frequency on a Unilateral Isometric Hamstring Strength Assessment Using Force Plates.

Relative strength explains the differences in multi-joint rapid force production between sexes (2024)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., McMahon, J. J., Lake, J. P., Ripley, N. J., Triplett, N. T., & Haff, G. G. (in press). Relative strength explains the differences in multi-joint rapid force production between sexes. PloS one, 19(2), e0296877. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0296877

The primary aim of this study was to determine whether relative strength explains the differences in the rapid force production (force developed during first 150-, 200-, and 250 ms) of females and males, and to evaluate the relationships between peak... Read More about Relative strength explains the differences in multi-joint rapid force production between sexes.

The Kneeling Isometric Plantar Flexor Test: Preliminary Reliability and Feasibility in Professional Youth Football (2023)
Journal Article
McMahon, J. J., Ripley, N. J., Comfort, P., Robles-Palazón, F. J., Fahey, J. T., Badby, A. J., & Bramah, C. (2023). The Kneeling Isometric Plantar Flexor Test: Preliminary Reliability and Feasibility in Professional Youth Football. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 8(4), 164. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk8040164

Calf injuries are common in professional football; thus, the establishment of reliable and time-efficient methods of measuring the peak force capabilities of the plantar flexors with equipment that is accessible to football practitioners is valuable.... Read More about The Kneeling Isometric Plantar Flexor Test: Preliminary Reliability and Feasibility in Professional Youth Football.

Rapid force generation during unilateral isometric hamstring assessment: reliability and relationship to maximal force. (2023)
Journal Article
Ripley, N., Fahey, J., Cuthbert, M., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2023). Rapid force generation during unilateral isometric hamstring assessment: reliability and relationship to maximal force. Sports Biomechanics, 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1080/14763141.2023.2276316

Limited research has reported the reliability of rapid force generation characteristics during isometric assessments of the hamstrings. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to determine the between-session reliability of rapid force genera... Read More about Rapid force generation during unilateral isometric hamstring assessment: reliability and relationship to maximal force..

Force plate methodologies applied to injury profiling and rehabilitation in sport: A scoping review protocol (2023)
Journal Article
Robles-Palazón, F. J., Comfort, P., Ripley, N. J., Herrington, L., Bramah, C., & McMahon, J. J. (in press). Force plate methodologies applied to injury profiling and rehabilitation in sport: A scoping review protocol. PloS one, 18(10), e0292487. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0292487

Musculoskeletal injuries are a common health problem among sporting populations. Such injuries come with a high financial burden to the involved organisations and can have a detrimental impact on the career attainment of injured individuals. Force pl... Read More about Force plate methodologies applied to injury profiling and rehabilitation in sport: A scoping review protocol.

The Good Morning—Exercise Technique and Exercise Selection Principles (2023)
Journal Article
Ross, S., Comfort, P., & McMahon, J. (2023). The Good Morning—Exercise Technique and Exercise Selection Principles. Strength and Conditioning Journal, https://doi.org/10.1519/ssc.0000000000000802

The good morning is a barbell exercise that can be used to develop muscular strength and hypertrophy in the posterior chain (i.e., hamstring muscles, gluteal muscles, spinal erectors, calf complex). The exercise uses a hip hinge motion with the barbe... Read More about The Good Morning—Exercise Technique and Exercise Selection Principles.

Changes in Body Mass and Movement Strategy Maintain Jump Height Immediately after Soccer Match (2023)
Journal Article
Spencer, R., Sindall, P., M. Hammond, K., J. Atkins, S., Quinn, M., & McMahon, J. (2023). Changes in Body Mass and Movement Strategy Maintain Jump Height Immediately after Soccer Match. Applied Sciences, 13(12), 7188. https://doi.org/10.3390/app13127188

A countermovement jump (CMJ) performed on a force plate is commonly applied in soccer to quantify acute neuromuscular fatigue (NMF), which may manifest immediately following soccer match play. Jump height (JH) is the main outcome variable reported fo... Read More about Changes in Body Mass and Movement Strategy Maintain Jump Height Immediately after Soccer Match.

Microdosing: A Conceptual Framework for use as Programming Strategy for Resistance Training in Team Sports (2023)
Journal Article
Cuthbert, M., Haff, G. G., McMahon, J. J., Evans, M., & Comfort, P. (2023). Microdosing: A Conceptual Framework for use as Programming Strategy for Resistance Training in Team Sports. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 46(2), 180-201. https://doi.org/10.1519/ssc.0000000000000786

Microdosing, in the context of resistance training, has increased in popularity within sporting environments where it is frequently used among strength and conditioning professionals. Although there is a clear definition for the concept within the li... Read More about Microdosing: A Conceptual Framework for use as Programming Strategy for Resistance Training in Team Sports.

The Validity of Hawkin Dynamics Wireless Dual Force Plates for Measuring Countermovement Jump and Drop Jump Variables (2023)
Journal Article
J. Badby, A., D. Mundy, P., Comfort, P., Lake, J. P., & McMahon, J. (2023). The Validity of Hawkin Dynamics Wireless Dual Force Plates for Measuring Countermovement Jump and Drop Jump Variables. Sensors, 23(10), 4820. https://doi.org/10.3390/s23104820

Force plate testing is becoming more commonplace in sport due to the advent of commercially available, portable, and affordable force plate systems (i.e., hardware and software). Following the validation of the Hawkin Dynamics Inc. (HD) proprietary s... Read More about The Validity of Hawkin Dynamics Wireless Dual Force Plates for Measuring Countermovement Jump and Drop Jump Variables.

A systematic review of the different calculation methods for measuring jump height during the countermovement and drop jump tests (2023)
Journal Article
Xu, J., Turner, A., Comfort, P., Harry, J., McMahon, J., Chavda, S., & Bishop, C. (in press). A systematic review of the different calculation methods for measuring jump height during the countermovement and drop jump tests. Sports Medicine, 11, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-023-01828-x

Background The height obtained during the countermovement jump (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ) tests have been measured by numerous studies using different calculation methods and pieces of equipment. However, the differences in calculation methods and e... Read More about A systematic review of the different calculation methods for measuring jump height during the countermovement and drop jump tests.

Effect of additional Nordic hamstring exercise or sprint training on the modifiable risk factors of hamstring strain injuries and performance (2023)
Journal Article
Ripley, N., Cuthbert, M., Comfort, P., & McMahon, J. (2023). Effect of additional Nordic hamstring exercise or sprint training on the modifiable risk factors of hamstring strain injuries and performance. PLoS ONE, 18(3), https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0281966

The Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) has commonly been investigated in isolation, however, within practice multiple modalities are commonly incorporated. However, the NHE has a low level of compliance within sport, with sprinting being potentially bei... Read More about Effect of additional Nordic hamstring exercise or sprint training on the modifiable risk factors of hamstring strain injuries and performance.

The Effect of Rest Redistribution on Kinetic and Kinematic Variables During the Countermovement Shrug. (2022)
Journal Article
Meechan, D., McMahon, J. J., Suchomel, T. J., & Comfort, P. (in press). The Effect of Rest Redistribution on Kinetic and Kinematic Variables During the Countermovement Shrug. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 37(7), 1358-1366. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000004238

This study compared the effects of rest redistribution (RR) on kinetic and kinematic variables during the countermovement shrug (CMS). Twenty-one male subjects (age 27.2 ± 3.3. years, height 1.78 ± 0.07 m, body mass 77.2 ±10.6 kg, relative one repeti... Read More about The Effect of Rest Redistribution on Kinetic and Kinematic Variables During the Countermovement Shrug..

Force plate-derived countermovement jump normative data and benchmarks for professional Rugby League players (2022)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Ripley, N., & Comfort, P. (2022). Force plate-derived countermovement jump normative data and benchmarks for professional Rugby League players. Sensors, 22(22), 8669. https://doi.org/10.3390/s22228669

The countermovement jump (CMJ) is an important test in rugby league (RL), and the force plate is the recommended assessment device, as it permits the calculation of several variables that explain jump strategy, alongside jump height. The purpose of t... Read More about Force plate-derived countermovement jump normative data and benchmarks for professional Rugby League players.

Comparing biomechanical time series data across countermovement shrug load (2022)
Journal Article
Meechan, D., McErlain-Naylor, S., McMahon, J., Suchomel, T., & Comfort, P. (2022). Comparing biomechanical time series data across countermovement shrug load. Journal of Sports Sciences, 40(15), 1658-1667. https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2022.2091351

The effect of load on time series data has yet to be investigated during weightlifting derivatives. This study compared the effect of load on the force-time and velocity-time curves during the countermovement shrug (CMS). Twenty-nine males performed... Read More about Comparing biomechanical time series data across countermovement shrug load.

Comparison between methods to estimate bicep femoris fascicle length from three estimation equations using a 10 cm ultrasound probe (2022)
Journal Article
Ripley, N., Comfort, P., & McMahon, J. (2022). Comparison between methods to estimate bicep femoris fascicle length from three estimation equations using a 10 cm ultrasound probe. Measurement in Physical Education and Exercise Science, 27(1), 43-50. https://doi.org/10.1080/1091367X.2022.2063689

The aim of the present study was to determine the reliability and differences between three fascicle length (FL) estimation methods when utilizing a 10-cm ultrasound (US) probe. Thirteen males (24.1 ± 3.8 years, 79.3 ± 14 kg, 179 ± 6.6 cm) participat... Read More about Comparison between methods to estimate bicep femoris fascicle length from three estimation equations using a 10 cm ultrasound probe.

Identifying and reporting position-specific countermovement jump outcome and phase characteristics within rugby league. (2022)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Lake, J., & Comfort, P. (2022). Identifying and reporting position-specific countermovement jump outcome and phase characteristics within rugby league. PLoS ONE, 17(3), e0265999. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0265999

The countermovement jump (CMJ) has been suggested to be an important test of neuromuscular performance for rugby league (RL) players. Identifying force platform-derived CMJ variables that may be more applicable to RL positions (e.g., forwards and bac... Read More about Identifying and reporting position-specific countermovement jump outcome and phase characteristics within rugby league..

The effect of exercise compliance on risk reduction for hamstring strain injury : a systematic review and meta-analyses (2021)
Journal Article
Ripley, N., Cuthbert, M., Ross, S., Comfort, P., & McMahon, J. (2021). The effect of exercise compliance on risk reduction for hamstring strain injury : a systematic review and meta-analyses. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(21), e11260. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182111260

Eccentric strength training can reduce the risk of hamstring strain injury (HSI) occurrence; however, its implementation can be impacted by athlete compliance and prescription. The aim of this review was to investigate the effects of intervention com... Read More about The effect of exercise compliance on risk reduction for hamstring strain injury : a systematic review and meta-analyses.

No differences in weightlifting overhead pressing exercises kinetics (2021)
Journal Article
Soriano, M., Lake, J., Comfort, P., Suchomel, T., McMahon, J., Jiménez-Ormeño, E., & Sainz de Baranda, P. (2021). No differences in weightlifting overhead pressing exercises kinetics. Sports Biomechanics, 1-13. https://doi.org/10.1080/14763141.2021.1993983

This study aimed to compare the kinetics between the push press (PP), push jerk (PJ), and split jerk (SJ). Sixteen resistance-trained participants (12 men and 4 women; age: 23.8 ± 4.4 years; height: 1.7 ± 0.1 m; body mass: 75.7 ± 13.0 kg; weightlifti... Read More about No differences in weightlifting overhead pressing exercises kinetics.

Kinematic and neuromuscular measures of intensity during drop jumps in female volleyball players (2021)
Journal Article
Torres-Banduc, M., Ramirez-Campillo, R., Andrade, D., Calleja-González, J., Nikolaidis, P., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2021). Kinematic and neuromuscular measures of intensity during drop jumps in female volleyball players. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 724070. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.724070

The aim of this study was to assess drop jump (DJ) performance variables (jump height, contact time, and reactive strength index) concomitant to surface electromyography (sEMG) of lower limb muscles during DJs from different drop heights (intensities... Read More about Kinematic and neuromuscular measures of intensity during drop jumps in female volleyball players.

A proposed method for evaluating drop jump performance with one force platform (2021)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Lake, J., Stratford, C., & Comfort, P. (2021). A proposed method for evaluating drop jump performance with one force platform. Biomechanics, 1(2), 178-189. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics1020015

The drop jump (DJ) is commonly utilised to assess athletes. The criterion two force platform (2FP) method of assessing DJ performance involves two adjacent force platforms, one for the box and one for the athlete to rebound from. Most researchers and... Read More about A proposed method for evaluating drop jump performance with one force platform.

Effects of spaceflight on musculoskeletal health : a systematic review and meta-analysis, considerations for interplanetary travel (2021)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., McMahon, J., Jones, P., Cuthbert, M., Kendall, K., Lake, J., & Haff, G. (2021). Effects of spaceflight on musculoskeletal health : a systematic review and meta-analysis, considerations for interplanetary travel. Sports Medicine, 51(10), 2097-2114. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-021-01496-9

If interplanetary travel is to be successful over the coming decades, it is essential that countermeasures to minimize deterioration of the musculoskeletal system are as effective as possible, given the increased duration of spaceflight associated wi... Read More about Effects of spaceflight on musculoskeletal health : a systematic review and meta-analysis, considerations for interplanetary travel.

Relationships among countermovement vertical jump performance metrics, strategy variables, and inter-limb asymmetry in females (2021)
Journal Article
Harry, J., Barker, L., Tinsley, G., Krzyszkowski, J., Chowning, L., McMahon, J., & Lake, J. (2021). Relationships among countermovement vertical jump performance metrics, strategy variables, and inter-limb asymmetry in females. Sports Biomechanics, 1-19. https://doi.org/10.1080/14763141.2021.1908412

Dependent variables commonly studied during countermovement vertical jump (CMVJ) tests largely stem from male-only studies despite females’distinct energy storage and reutilisation strategies. This could limit progress among females seeking increased... Read More about Relationships among countermovement vertical jump performance metrics, strategy variables, and inter-limb asymmetry in females.

Effects of variations in resistance training frequency on strength development in well-trained populations and implications for in-season athlete training : a systematic review and meta-analysis (2021)
Journal Article
Cuthbert, M., Haff, G., Arent, S., Ripley, N., McMahon, J., Evans, M., & Comfort, P. (2021). Effects of variations in resistance training frequency on strength development in well-trained populations and implications for in-season athlete training : a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Medicine, 51(9), 1967-1982. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-021-01460-7

In-season competition and tournaments for team sports can be both long and congested, with some sports competing up to three times per week. During these periods of time, athletes need to prepare technically, tactically and physically for the next fi... Read More about Effects of variations in resistance training frequency on strength development in well-trained populations and implications for in-season athlete training : a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Electromyographical Differences Between the Hyperextension and Reverse-Hyperextension (2021)
Journal Article
Cuthbert, M., Ripley, N. J., Suchomel, T. J., Alejo, R., McMahon, J. J., & Comfort, P. (2021). Electromyographical Differences Between the Hyperextension and Reverse-Hyperextension. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 35(6), 1477-1483. https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000004049

The aims of this study were to compare muscle activation of the erector spinae (ES), gluteus maximus (GMax), and biceps femoris (BF) during the hyperextension (HE) and reverse-HE (RHE) exercises. Ten subjects (age, 23 ± 4 years; height, 175.9 ± 6.9 c... Read More about Electromyographical Differences Between the Hyperextension and Reverse-Hyperextension.

Unilateral vs. bilateral hamstring strength assessments : comparing reliability and inter-limb asymmetries in female soccer players (2021)
Journal Article
Cuthbert, M., Comfort, P., Ripley, N., McMahon, J., Evans, M., & Bishop, C. (2021). Unilateral vs. bilateral hamstring strength assessments : comparing reliability and inter-limb asymmetries in female soccer players. Journal of Sports Sciences, 39(13), 1481-1488. https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2021.1880180

The aims in the present study were to assess reliability for two unilateral and two bilateral field-based hamstring assessments and compare magnitude, direction and agreement of inter-limb asymmetry between tests and sessions. Twenty-nine female socc... Read More about Unilateral vs. bilateral hamstring strength assessments : comparing reliability and inter-limb asymmetries in female soccer players.

Verbal instructions affect reactive strength index modified and time-series waveforms in basketball players (2021)
Journal Article
Sánchez-Sixto, A., McMahon, J., & Floría, P. (2021). Verbal instructions affect reactive strength index modified and time-series waveforms in basketball players. Sports Biomechanics, 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1080/14763141.2020.1836252

This study aimed to determine the effects of different verbal instructions, intended to affect the countermovement jump (CMJ) execution time, on the reactive strength index modified (RSI ) and the time-series waveforms. Thirteen male basketball playe... Read More about Verbal instructions affect reactive strength index modified and time-series waveforms in basketball players.

The 10/5 repeated jumps test : are 10 repetitions and three trials necessary? (2020)
Journal Article
Stratford, C., Dos’Santos, T., & McMahon, J. (2021). The 10/5 repeated jumps test : are 10 repetitions and three trials necessary?. Biomechanics, 1(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics1010001

The purpose of this study was to identify whether ten repetitions and three trials were necessary to achieve stability in peak reactive strength index (RSI) during the 10/5 repeated jumps test (RJT). Twenty-five males, from multiple sports, performed... Read More about The 10/5 repeated jumps test : are 10 repetitions and three trials necessary?.

Association of jumping ability and maximum strength with dive distance in swimmers (2020)
Journal Article
Calderbank, J., Comfort, P., & McMahon, J. (2021). Association of jumping ability and maximum strength with dive distance in swimmers. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 16(2), 296-303. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2019-0773

Purpose: The aim of the current study was to investigate the relationship between dive distance (DD) and countermovement jump (CMJ) height, track start CMJ height, countermovement broad jump (CMBJ) distance, track start broad jump distance, and isome... Read More about Association of jumping ability and maximum strength with dive distance in swimmers.

Vertical jump testing in rugby league: a rationale for calculating take-off momentum (2020)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Lake, J., Ripley, N., & Comfort, P. (2020). Vertical jump testing in rugby league: a rationale for calculating take-off momentum. Journal of Applied Biomechanics, 36(6), 370-374. https://doi.org/10.1123/JAB.2020-0100

The purpose of this study was to determine the usefulness of calculating jump take-off momentum in rugby league (RL) by exploring its relationship with sprint momentum, due to the latter being an important attribute of this sport. Twenty-five male RL... Read More about Vertical jump testing in rugby league: a rationale for calculating take-off momentum.

Vertical jump testing in rugby league : a rationale for calculating take-off momentum (2020)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Lake, J., Ripley, N., & Comfort, P. (2020). Vertical jump testing in rugby league : a rationale for calculating take-off momentum. Journal of Applied Biomechanics, 36(6), 370-374. https://doi.org/10.1123/jab.2020-0100

The purpose of this study was to determine the usefulness of calculating jump take-off momentum in rugby league (RL) by exploring its relationship with sprint momentum, due to the latter being an important attribute of this sport. Twenty-five male RL... Read More about Vertical jump testing in rugby league : a rationale for calculating take-off momentum.

Countermovement jump standards in rugby league : what is a “good” performance? (2020)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Lake, J., Dos'Santos, T., Jones, P., Thomasson, M., & Comfort, P. (2020). Countermovement jump standards in rugby league : what is a “good” performance?. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 36(6), 1691-1698. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003697

The countermovement jump (CMJ) is considered an important test in rugby league and the force platform is the recommended tool for assessing CMJ performance in this cohort. Due to inconsistent methods applied across previous studies, there is curren... Read More about Countermovement jump standards in rugby league : what is a “good” performance?.

The effect of training with weightlifting catching or pulling derivatives on squat jump and countermovement jump force–time adaptations (2020)
Journal Article
Suchomel, T., McKeever, S., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2020). The effect of training with weightlifting catching or pulling derivatives on squat jump and countermovement jump force–time adaptations. Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology, 5(2), 28. https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk5020028

The purpose of this study was to examine the changes in squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ) force−time curve characteristics following 10 weeks of training with either load-matched weightlifting catching (CATCH) or pulling derivatives (PUL... Read More about The effect of training with weightlifting catching or pulling derivatives on squat jump and countermovement jump force–time adaptations.

A comparison of kinetic and kinematic variables during the midthigh pull and countermovement shrug, across loads (2020)
Journal Article
Meechan, D., Suchomel, T., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2020). A comparison of kinetic and kinematic variables during the midthigh pull and countermovement shrug, across loads. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 34(7), 1830-1841. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003288

This study compared kinetic and kinematic variables during the midthigh pull (MTP) and countermovement shrug (CMS). Eighteen men (age: 29.43 ± 3.95 years, height: 1.77 ± 0.08 m, body mass: 84.65 ± 18.79 kg, and 1 repetition maximum [1RM] power clean:... Read More about A comparison of kinetic and kinematic variables during the midthigh pull and countermovement shrug, across loads.

A comparison of kinetic and kinematic variables during the pull from the knee and hang pull, across loads (2020)
Journal Article
Meechan, D., McMahon, J., Suchomel, T., & Comfort, P. (2020). A comparison of kinetic and kinematic variables during the pull from the knee and hang pull, across loads. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 34(7), 1819-1829. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003593

Kinetic and kinematic variables during the pull from the knee (PFK) and hang pull (HP) were compared in this study. Eighteen men (age = 29.43 ± 3.95 years; height 1.77 ± 0.08 m; body mass 84.65 ± 18.79 kg) performed the PFK and HP with 40, 60, 80, 10... Read More about A comparison of kinetic and kinematic variables during the pull from the knee and hang pull, across loads.

Changes in early and maximal isometric force production in response to moderate- and high-load strength and power training (2020)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Jones, P., Thomas, C., Dos'Santos, T., McMahon, J., & Suchomel, T. (2020). Changes in early and maximal isometric force production in response to moderate- and high-load strength and power training. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003544

The aims of this study were to determine the changes in early (50-, 100-, 150-, 200-, 250 ms) and maximal isometric force production, in response to a 4-week period of moderate-load resistance training (60-82.5% 1 repetition maximum [1RM]), followed... Read More about Changes in early and maximal isometric force production in response to moderate- and high-load strength and power training.

Reply to: "Comment on : the effect of Nordic hamstring exercise intervention volume on eccentric strength and muscle architecture adaptations : a systematic review and meta-analyses" (2019)
Journal Article
Cuthbert, M., Ripley, N., McMahon, J., Evans, M., Haff, G., & Comfort, P. (2020). Reply to: "Comment on : the effect of Nordic hamstring exercise intervention volume on eccentric strength and muscle architecture adaptations : a systematic review and meta-analyses". Sports Medicine, 50, 223-225. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-019-01245-z

Letter to the Editor

Contribution of eccentric strength to cutting performance in female soccer players (2019)
Journal Article
Jones, P., Dos'Santos, T., McMahon, J., & Graham-Smith, P. (2019). Contribution of eccentric strength to cutting performance in female soccer players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003433

The aim of this study was to examine the contribution of eccentric strength to performance of a 70-90° cutting task (CUT) (time to complete: 5 m approach, 70-90° cut, 3 m exit). Nineteen female soccer players (mean ± SD age, height and mass; 21.6 ± 4... Read More about Contribution of eccentric strength to cutting performance in female soccer players.

Corrections to : The effect of Nordic hamstring exercise intervention volume on eccentric strength and muscle architecture adaptations : a systematic review and meta-analyses (2019)
Journal Article
Cuthbert, M., Ripley, N., McMahon, J., Evans, M., Haff, G., & Comfort, P. (2020). Corrections to : The effect of Nordic hamstring exercise intervention volume on eccentric strength and muscle architecture adaptations : a systematic review and meta-analyses. Sports Medicine, 50(1), 101-102. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-019-01208-4

Correction to: Sports Medicine https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-019-01178-7

Comparison of countermovement jump–derived reactive strength index modified and underpinning force-time variables between super league and championship rugby league players (2019)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Jones, P., & Comfort, P. (2019). Comparison of countermovement jump–derived reactive strength index modified and underpinning force-time variables between super league and championship rugby league players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003380

The countermovement jump (CMJ) is regularly tested in rugby league (RL), with recent work reporting reactive strength index modified (RSImod) to distinguish between levels of play. Differences in CMJ-derived RSImod and underpinning force-time variabl... Read More about Comparison of countermovement jump–derived reactive strength index modified and underpinning force-time variables between super league and championship rugby league players.

Normalization of early isometric force production as a percentage of peak force during multijoint isometric assessment (2019)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Dos’Santos, T., Jones, P., McMahon, J., Suchomel, T., Bazyler, C., & Stone, M. (2020). Normalization of early isometric force production as a percentage of peak force during multijoint isometric assessment. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 15(4), 478-482. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2019-0217

Purpose: To determine the reliability of early force production (50-, 100-, 150-, 200-, 250 ms) relative to peak force (PF) during an isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and assess the relationships between these variables. Methods: Male collegiate athle... Read More about Normalization of early isometric force production as a percentage of peak force during multijoint isometric assessment.

The effect of Nordic hamstring exercise intervention volume on eccentric strength and muscle architecture adaptations : a systematic review and meta-analyses (2019)
Journal Article
Cuthbert, M., Ripley, N., McMahon, J., Evans, M., Haff, G., & Comfort, P. (2020). The effect of Nordic hamstring exercise intervention volume on eccentric strength and muscle architecture adaptations : a systematic review and meta-analyses. Sports Medicine, 50, 83-99. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-019-01178-7

Although performance of the Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) has been shown to elicit adaptations that may reduce hamstring strain injury (HSI) risk and occurrence, compliance in NHE interventions in professional soccer teams is low despite a high occ... Read More about The effect of Nordic hamstring exercise intervention volume on eccentric strength and muscle architecture adaptations : a systematic review and meta-analyses.

The effect of load placement on the power production characteristics of three lower extremity jumping exercises (2019)
Journal Article
Suchomel, T. J., McKeever, S. M., Sijuwade, O., Carpenter, L., McMahon, J., Loturco, I., & Comfort, P. (2019). The effect of load placement on the power production characteristics of three lower extremity jumping exercises. Journal of Human Kinetics, 68(1), 109-122. https://doi.org/10.2478/hukin-2019-0060

The purpose of this study was to compare the power production characteristics of the jump squat (JS), hexagonal barbell jump (HEXJ), and jump shrug (JShrug) across a spectrum of relative loads. Fifteen resistance-trained men completed three testing s... Read More about The effect of load placement on the power production characteristics of three lower extremity jumping exercises.

The reliability and validity of the bar-mounted PUSH BandTM 2.0 during bench press with moderate and heavy loads (2019)
Journal Article
Lake, J., Augustus, S., Austin, K., Comfort, P., McMahon, J., Mundy, P., & Haff, G. (2019). The reliability and validity of the bar-mounted PUSH BandTM 2.0 during bench press with moderate and heavy loads. Journal of Sports Sciences, 37(23), 2685-2690. https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2019.1656703

The aim of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of the bar-mounted PUSH BandTM 2.0 to determine peak and mean velocity during the bench press exercise with a moderate (60% one repetition maximum [1RM]) and heavy (90% 1RM) load. We di... Read More about The reliability and validity of the bar-mounted PUSH BandTM 2.0 during bench press with moderate and heavy loads.

Effect of onset threshold on kinetic and kinematic variables of a weightlifting derivative containing a first and second pull (2019)
Journal Article
James, L., Suchomel, T., McMahon, J., Chavda, S., & Comfort, P. (2020). Effect of onset threshold on kinetic and kinematic variables of a weightlifting derivative containing a first and second pull. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 34(2), 298-307. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000003316

James, LP, Suchomel, TJ, McMahon, JJ, Chavda, S, and Comfort, P. Effect of onset threshold on kinetic and kinematic variables of a weightlifting derivative containing a first and second pull. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2019-This study sought... Read More about Effect of onset threshold on kinetic and kinematic variables of a weightlifting derivative containing a first and second pull.

Changes in dynamic strength index in response to strength training (2018)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Thomas, C., Dos'Santos, T., Suchomel, T., Jones, P., & McMahon, J. (2018). Changes in dynamic strength index in response to strength training. Sports, 6(4), 176. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports6040176

The primary aim of this investigation was to determine the effects of a four-week period of in-season strength training on the dynamic strength index (DSI). Pre and post a four-week period of strength-based training, twenty-four collegiate athletes (... Read More about Changes in dynamic strength index in response to strength training.

Optimizing Squat Technique—Revisited (2018)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., McMahon, J., & Suchomel, T. J. (2018). Optimizing Squat Technique—Revisited. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 40(6), 68-74. https://doi.org/10.1519/SSC.0000000000000398

The back squat is the cornerstone of many strength and conditioning programs, with increases in back squat strength associated with improvements in athletic performance. A variety of back squat techniques have been described throughout the literature... Read More about Optimizing Squat Technique—Revisited.

Within-subject consistency of unimodal and bimodal force application during the countermovement jump (2018)
Journal Article
Lake, J., & McMahon, J. (2018). Within-subject consistency of unimodal and bimodal force application during the countermovement jump. Sports, 6(4), 143. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports6040143

Countermovement jump (CMJ) force data are often time-normalized so researchers and practitioners can study the effect that sex, training status, and training intervention have on CMJ strategy: the so-called force⁻time curve shape. Data are often coll... Read More about Within-subject consistency of unimodal and bimodal force application during the countermovement jump.

The validity of the Push Band 2.0 during vertical jump performance (2018)
Journal Article
Lake, J., Augustus, S., Austin, K., Mundy, P., McMahon, J., Comfort, P., & Haff, G. (2018). The validity of the Push Band 2.0 during vertical jump performance. Sports, 6(4), 140. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports6040140

The Push Band has the potential to provide a cheap and practical method of measuring velocity and power during countermovement vertical jumping (CMJ). However, very little is known about whether it conforms to laboratory-based gold standards. The aim... Read More about The validity of the Push Band 2.0 during vertical jump performance.

Reliability of and relationship between flight time to contraction time ratio and reactive strength index modified (2018)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Lake, J., & Comfort, P. (2018). Reliability of and relationship between flight time to contraction time ratio and reactive strength index modified. Sports, 6(3), 81. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports6030081

Countermovement jump (CMJ) force-time testing is commonly used to monitor seasonal alterations in athletes’ CMJ strategy (to infer alterations in neuromuscular function). The flight time to contraction time (FT:CT) ratio and reactive strength index m... Read More about Reliability of and relationship between flight time to contraction time ratio and reactive strength index modified.

Assessing the frequency and magnitude of match impacts accrued during an elite rugby union playing season (2018)
Journal Article
Grainger, A., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2018). Assessing the frequency and magnitude of match impacts accrued during an elite rugby union playing season. International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport, 18(4), 507-522. https://doi.org/10.1080/24748668.2018.1496392

The aim of this study was to identify position-related differences in absolute and relative match impacts in rugby union. Thirty-eight subjects were tracked, using GPS units containing inertial sensors, across one full playing season (n = 462 data se... Read More about Assessing the frequency and magnitude of match impacts accrued during an elite rugby union playing season.

An investigation into the effects of excluding the catch phase of the power clean on force-time characteristics during isometric and dynamic tasks (2018)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Dos'Santos, T., Thomas, C., McMahon, J., & Suchomel, T. (2018). An investigation into the effects of excluding the catch phase of the power clean on force-time characteristics during isometric and dynamic tasks. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 32(8), 2116-2129. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000002656

The aims of this study were to compare the effects of the exclusion or inclusion of the catch phase during power clean (PC) derivatives on force-time characteristics during isometric and dynamic tasks, after two 4-week mesocycles of resistance traini... Read More about An investigation into the effects of excluding the catch phase of the power clean on force-time characteristics during isometric and dynamic tasks.

Concurrent validity of a portable force plate using vertical jump force-time characteristics (2018)
Journal Article
Lake, J., Mundy, P., Comfort, P., McMahon, J., Suchomel, T., & Carden, P. (2018). Concurrent validity of a portable force plate using vertical jump force-time characteristics. Journal of Applied Biomechanics, 34(5), 410-413. https://doi.org/10.1123/jab.2017-0371

This study examined concurrent validity of countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) reactive strength index modified and force-time characteristics recorded using a one dimensional portable and laboratory force plate system. Twenty-eight men performed bil... Read More about Concurrent validity of a portable force plate using vertical jump force-time characteristics.

Variability of plyometric and ballistic exercise technique maintains jump performance (2018)
Journal Article
Chandler, P., Greig, M., & McMahon, J. (2018). Variability of plyometric and ballistic exercise technique maintains jump performance. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 32(6), 1571-1582. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000002572

The aim of this study was to investigate changes in vertical jump technique over the course of a training session. Twelve plyometric and ballistic exercise trained male athletes (age = 23.4 ± 4.6 years, body mass = 78.7 ± 18.8 kg, height = 177.1 ± 9.... Read More about Variability of plyometric and ballistic exercise technique maintains jump performance.

Effect of Barbell Load on Vertical Jump Landing Force-Time Characteristics (2018)
Journal Article
Lake, J. P., Mundy, P. D., Comfort, P., McMahon, J. J., Suchomel, T. J., & Carden, P. (2023). Effect of Barbell Load on Vertical Jump Landing Force-Time Characteristics. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 35(1), 25-32. https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000002554

The aim of this study was to quantify the effect that barbell load has on the jump height and force-time characteristics of the countermovement jump (CMJ). Fifteen strength-trained men (mean ± SD: age 23 ± 2 years, mass 84.9 ± 8.1 kg, height 1.80 ± 0... Read More about Effect of Barbell Load on Vertical Jump Landing Force-Time Characteristics.

Relationship Between Reactive Strength Index Variants in Rugby League Players (2018)
Journal Article
McMahon, J. J., Suchomel, T. J., Lake, J. P., & Comfort, P. (2023). Relationship Between Reactive Strength Index Variants in Rugby League Players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 35(1), 280-285. https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000002462

Two reactive strength index (RSI) variants exist, the RSI and RSI modified (RSImod) which are typically calculated during the drop jump (DJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ), respectively. Both RSI variants have been used to monitor athletes’ ability t... Read More about Relationship Between Reactive Strength Index Variants in Rugby League Players.

Understanding the key phases of the countermovement jump force-time curve (2018)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Suchomel, T., Lake, J., & Comfort, P. (2018). Understanding the key phases of the countermovement jump force-time curve. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 40(4), 96-106. https://doi.org/10.1519/SSC.0000000000000375

The countermovement jump (CMJ) test is commonly conducted to assess neuromuscular function and is being increasingly performed using force platforms. Comprehensive insight into athletes’ neuromuscular function can be gained through detailed analys... Read More about Understanding the key phases of the countermovement jump force-time curve.

Comparison of the force-, velocity- and power-time curves between the concentric-only and eccentric-concentric bench press exercises (2018)
Journal Article
Pérez-Castilla, A., Comfort, P., McMahon, J., Pestaña-Melero, F., & García-Ramos, A. (2020). Comparison of the force-, velocity- and power-time curves between the concentric-only and eccentric-concentric bench press exercises. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 34(6), 1618-1624. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000002448

The aim of this study was to compare the temporal and mechanical variables between the concentric-only and eccentric-concentric bench press (BP) variants. Twenty-one men (age: 22.0±4.2 years, body mass: 73.4±7.7 kg, height: 177.2±8.0 cm; one-repetiti... Read More about Comparison of the force-, velocity- and power-time curves between the concentric-only and eccentric-concentric bench press exercises.

Lack of effect of ankle position during the Nordic curl on muscle activity of the biceps femoris and medial gastrocnemius (2017)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Regan, A., Herrington, L., Thomas, C., McMahon, J., & Jones, P. (2017). Lack of effect of ankle position during the Nordic curl on muscle activity of the biceps femoris and medial gastrocnemius. Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 26(3), 202-207. https://doi.org/10.1123/jsr.2015-0130

Context: Regular performance (~2×/wk) of Nordic curls has been shown to increase hamstring strength and reduce the risk of hamstring strain injury, although no consensus on ankle position has been provided. Objective: To compare the effects of p... Read More about Lack of effect of ankle position during the Nordic curl on muscle activity of the biceps femoris and medial gastrocnemius.

The effects of a four week jump-training program on frontal plane projection angle in female gymnasts (2017)
Journal Article
Colclough, A., Munro, A., Herrington, L., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2018). The effects of a four week jump-training program on frontal plane projection angle in female gymnasts. Physical Therapy in Sport, 30, 29-33. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ptsp.2017.11.003

Objectives: To investigate the effects of a four week jump training program on frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) in young female gymnasts. Design: Intervention study, consisting of a four week jump training program performed for 15 minutes as... Read More about The effects of a four week jump-training program on frontal plane projection angle in female gymnasts.

Returners exhibit greater jumping performance improvements during a peaking phase compared to new players on a volleyball team (2017)
Journal Article
Bazyler, C., Mizuguchi, S., Kavanaugh, A., McMahon, J., Comfort, P., & Stone, M. (2017). Returners exhibit greater jumping performance improvements during a peaking phase compared to new players on a volleyball team. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 13(6), 709-716. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2017-0474

Purpose: To determine if jumping performance changes during a peaking phase differed between returners and new players in a female collegiate volleyball team and to determine which variables best explained the variation in performance changes. Metho... Read More about Returners exhibit greater jumping performance improvements during a peaking phase compared to new players on a volleyball team.

The effect of hip joint angle on isometric midthigh pull kinetics (2017)
Journal Article
Dos'Santos, T., Thomas, C., Jones, P., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2017). The effect of hip joint angle on isometric midthigh pull kinetics. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 31(10), 2748-2757. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000002098

The aim of this study were to compare isometric midthigh pull (IMTP) peak force (PF), time-specific force values (100-, 150-, and 200 ms), rate of force development (RFD) at predetermined time bands (0–100, 0–150, and 0–200 ms) and net forces between... Read More about The effect of hip joint angle on isometric midthigh pull kinetics.

Influence of dynamic strength index on countermovement jump force-, power-, velocity-, and displacement-time curves (2017)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Jones, P., Dos'Santos, T., & Comfort, P. (2017). Influence of dynamic strength index on countermovement jump force-, power-, velocity-, and displacement-time curves. Sports, 5(4), 72-83. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports5040072

The dynamic strength index (DSI), often calculated as the ratio of countermovement jump (CMJ) propulsion peak force to isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) peak force, is said to inform whether ballistic or maximal strength training is warranted for a giv... Read More about Influence of dynamic strength index on countermovement jump force-, power-, velocity-, and displacement-time curves.

Relationships between isometric force-time characteristics and dynamic performance (2017)
Journal Article
Dos'Santos, T., Thomas, C., Comfort, P., McMahon, J., & Jones, P. (2017). Relationships between isometric force-time characteristics and dynamic performance. Sports, 5(3), https://doi.org/10.3390/sports5030068

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) force-time characteristics (peak force and time-specific force vales (100–250 ms)) and dynamic performance and compare dynamic performance between stro... Read More about Relationships between isometric force-time characteristics and dynamic performance.

Comment on : "Anthropometric and physical qualities of elite male youth rugby league players" (2017)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Jones, P., & Comfort, P. (2017). Comment on : "Anthropometric and physical qualities of elite male youth rugby league players". Sports Medicine, 47(12), 2667-2668. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-017-0771-6

We read with interest the recent review on anthropometric and physical qualities of elite male youth rugby league players by Till et al. and congratulate the authors for producing a very informative review. However, we would like to raise an issue th... Read More about Comment on : "Anthropometric and physical qualities of elite male youth rugby league players".

Assessment of loaded squat jump height with a free-weight barbell and Smith machine : comparison of the take-off velocity and flight time procedures (2017)
Journal Article
Pérez-Castilla, A., McMahon, J., Comfort, P., & García-Ramos, A. (2020). Assessment of loaded squat jump height with a free-weight barbell and Smith machine : comparison of the take-off velocity and flight time procedures. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 34(3), 671-677. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000002166

The aims of this study were to compare the reliability and magnitude of jump height between the two standard procedures of analysing force platform data to estimate jump height (take-off velocity [TOV] and flight time [FT]) in the loaded squat jump (... Read More about Assessment of loaded squat jump height with a free-weight barbell and Smith machine : comparison of the take-off velocity and flight time procedures.

Comparison of methods of calculating dynamic strength index (2017)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Thomas, C., Dos'Santos, T., Jones, P., Suchomel, T., & McMahon, J. (2017). Comparison of methods of calculating dynamic strength index. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 13(3), 320-325. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2017-0255

Purpose: To determine the reliability and variability of dynamic strength index (DSI) calculated from squat jump (SJ) (DSI-SJ) versus countermovement jump (CMJ) (DSI-CMJ) peak force (PF) and to compare DSI values between methods. Methods: Male youth... Read More about Comparison of methods of calculating dynamic strength index.

Countermovement jump phase characteristics of senior and academy rugby league players (2017)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Murphy, S., Rej, S., & Comfort, P. (2017). Countermovement jump phase characteristics of senior and academy rugby league players. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 12(6), 803-811. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2016-0467

Purpose: Gross measures of countermovement jump (CMJ) performance are commonly used to track maturational changes in neuromuscular function within rugby league (RL). The purpose of this study was to conduct both a gross and a more detailed tempor... Read More about Countermovement jump phase characteristics of senior and academy rugby league players.

The role of eccentric strength in 180° turns in female soccer players (2017)
Journal Article
Jones, P., Thomas, C., Dos'Santos, T., McMahon, J., & Graham-Smith, P. (2017). The role of eccentric strength in 180° turns in female soccer players. Sports, 5(2), 42. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports5020042

Previous studies have reported an association between eccentric strength (ECC-STR) and change of direction (COD) ability. Little is known about how ECC-STR facilitates COD maneuvers. The aim of this study was to examine the role of ECC-STR during a 1... Read More about The role of eccentric strength in 180° turns in female soccer players.

Influence of reactive strength index modified on force- and power-time curves (2017)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Jones, P., Suchomel, T., Lake, J., & Comfort, P. (2017). Influence of reactive strength index modified on force- and power-time curves. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 13(2), 220-227. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2017-0056

Purpose: The reactive strength index modified (RSImod) has been recently identified and validated as a method of monitoring countermovement jump (CMJ) performance. The kinetic and kinematic mechanisms that optimize a higher RSImod score are, however,... Read More about Influence of reactive strength index modified on force- and power-time curves.

Sex differences in countermovement jump phase characteristics (2017)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Rej, S., & Comfort, P. (2017). Sex differences in countermovement jump phase characteristics. Sports, 5(1), 8. https://doi.org/10.3390/sports5010008

The countermovement jump (CMJ) is commonly used to explore sex differences in neuromuscular function, but previous studies have only reported gross CMJ measures or have partly examined CMJ phase characteristics. The purpose of this study was to explo... Read More about Sex differences in countermovement jump phase characteristics.

Changes in strength, power, and speed across a season in English county cricketers (2017)
Journal Article
Carr, C., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2017). Changes in strength, power, and speed across a season in English county cricketers. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 12(1), 50-55. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2015-0524

PURPOSE: Previous research has investigated changes in athletes' strength, power, and speed performances across the competitive season of many sports, although this has not been explored in cricketers. The aim of this study was to investigate changes... Read More about Changes in strength, power, and speed across a season in English county cricketers.

Within- and between-session reliability of medial gastrocnemius architectural properties (2016)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Turner, A., & Comfort, P. (2016). Within- and between-session reliability of medial gastrocnemius architectural properties. Biology of Sport, 33(2), 185-188. https://doi.org/10.5604/20831862.1200511

This study aimed to determine the within- and between-session reliability of medial gastrocnemius (MG) architecture (e.g. muscle thickness (MT), fascicle length (FL) and pennation angle (PA)), as derived via ultrasonography followed by manual digit... Read More about Within- and between-session reliability of medial gastrocnemius architectural properties.

Reliability of the 505 change-of-direction test in netball players (2016)
Journal Article
Barber, O., Thomas, C., Jones, P., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2016). Reliability of the 505 change-of-direction test in netball players. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 11(3), 377-380. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2015-0215

PURPOSE: To determine the reliability of the 505 change-of-direction (COD) test performed with both a stationary and a flying start. METHODS: Fifty-two female netball players (age 23.9 ± 5.4 y, height 169.9 ± 3.3 cm, body mass 65.2 ± 4.6 kg) pe... Read More about Reliability of the 505 change-of-direction test in netball players.

Effect of sampling frequency on isometric midthigh-pull kinetics (2016)
Journal Article
Dos’Santos, T., Jones, P., Kelly, J., McMahon, J., Comfort, P., & Thomas, C. (2016). Effect of sampling frequency on isometric midthigh-pull kinetics. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 11(2), 255-260. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2015-0222

Purpose: Skeletal-muscle function can be evaluated using force–times curves generated via the isometric midthigh pull (IMTP). Various sampling frequencies (500–1000 Hz) have been used for IMTP assessments; however, no research has investigated the in... Read More about Effect of sampling frequency on isometric midthigh-pull kinetics.

Relationships between lower body muscle structure and isometric mid-thigh pull peak force (2015)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Stapley, J., Suchomel, T., & Comfort, P. (2015). Relationships between lower body muscle structure and isometric mid-thigh pull peak force. Journal of trainology, 4(2), 43-48. https://doi.org/10.17338/trainology.4.2_43

Objectives: To explore relationships between aspects of vastus lateralis (VL) and medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle structure (muscle thickness, fascicle length and pennation angle) and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) peak force capacity. Design and M... Read More about Relationships between lower body muscle structure and isometric mid-thigh pull peak force.

Relationships between speed, change of direction and jump performance with cricket specific speed tests in male academy cricketers (2015)
Journal Article
Foden, M., Astley, S., McMahon, J., Comfort, P., Matthews, M., & Jones, P. (2015). Relationships between speed, change of direction and jump performance with cricket specific speed tests in male academy cricketers. Journal of trainology, 4(2), 37-42. https://doi.org/10.17338/trainology.4.2_37

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between general speed and change of direction speed and‘cricket specific’ speed tests and the relationships between jump performance and speed and change of direction ability in m... Read More about Relationships between speed, change of direction and jump performance with cricket specific speed tests in male academy cricketers.

Reliability of maximal back squat and power clean performances in inexperienced athletes (2015)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., & McMahon, J. (2015). Reliability of maximal back squat and power clean performances in inexperienced athletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 29(11), 3089-3096. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000000815

The aim of the study was to determine between-session reliability of maximal weight lifted during the back squat and power clean, in inexperienced athletes, and to identify the smallest detectable difference between sessions. Forty-four collegiate at... Read More about Reliability of maximal back squat and power clean performances in inexperienced athletes.

A correction equation for jump height measured using the just jump system (2015)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Jones, P., & Comfort, P. (2016). A correction equation for jump height measured using the just jump system. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 11(4), 555-557. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2015-0194

Purpose: To determine the concurrent validity and reliability of the popular Just Jump system (JJS) for determining jump height and, if necessary, provide a correction equation for future reference. Methods: Eighteen male college athletes performed 3... Read More about A correction equation for jump height measured using the just jump system.

Relationships between lower body muscle structure and maximal power clean performance (2015)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Turner, A., & Comfort, P. (2015). Relationships between lower body muscle structure and maximal power clean performance. Journal of trainology, 4(2), 32-36. https://doi.org/10.17338/trainology.4.2_32

Objectives: Correlational studies have linked distinct characteristics of lower body muscle structure (e.g. muscle thickness and pennation angle) to key variables attained during various tasks (e.g. squatting and jumping) which are beneficial to athl... Read More about Relationships between lower body muscle structure and maximal power clean performance.

Relationships between jump and sprint performance in first-class county cricketers (2015)
Journal Article
Carr, C., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2015). Relationships between jump and sprint performance in first-class county cricketers. Journal of trainology, 4(1), 1-5. https://doi.org/10.17338/trainology.4.1_1

Objectives: Research across a number of sports has identified a meaningful relationship between jump and sprint performance. The aim of this study was to investigate these relationships in first-class county cricketers. Design and Methods: Using a wi... Read More about Relationships between jump and sprint performance in first-class county cricketers.

Effect of knee and trunk angle on kinetic variables during the isometric mid-thigh pull : test-retest reliability (2015)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Jones, P., McMahon, J., & Newton, R. (2015). Effect of knee and trunk angle on kinetic variables during the isometric mid-thigh pull : test-retest reliability. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 10(1), 58-63. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2014-0077

The isometric midthigh pull (IMTP) has been used to monitor changes in force, maximum rate of force development (mRFD), and impulse, with performance in this task being associated with performance in athletic tasks. Numerous postures have been adopte... Read More about Effect of knee and trunk angle on kinetic variables during the isometric mid-thigh pull : test-retest reliability.

A comparison of maximal power clean performances performed from the floor, knee and mid-thigh (2014)
Journal Article
Kelly, J., McMahon, J., & Comfort, P. (2014). A comparison of maximal power clean performances performed from the floor, knee and mid-thigh. Journal of trainology, 3(2), 53-56. https://doi.org/10.17338/trainology.3.2_53

Objectives: This study aimed to compare one repetition maximum (1RM) power clean performances, performed from the floor, the knee and from mid-thigh, to determine the differences between variations. Design and Methods: Using a within subjects repeate... Read More about A comparison of maximal power clean performances performed from the floor, knee and mid-thigh.

The effect of peer tutoring on academic achievement (2014)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., & McMahon, J. (2014). The effect of peer tutoring on academic achievement. Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, 6(1), 168-175. https://doi.org/10.1108/JARHE-06-2012-0017

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to determine the effects of peer tutoring on the academic achievement, during practical assessments, of the tutors and tutees. Design/methodology/approach – Final year students on an undergraduate Sports Scie... Read More about The effect of peer tutoring on academic achievement.

Authors’ reply to Morin and colleagues (2013)
Journal Article
Pearson, S., & McMahon, J. (2013). Authors’ reply to Morin and colleagues. Sports Medicine, 43(2), 155-156. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-012-0016-7

We are grateful for the feedback provided by Dr Jean-Benoit Morin [1] and colleagues in relation to our recently published review article regarding lower limb mechanical properties [2]. The primary purpose of this short reply is to reiterate the aims... Read More about Authors’ reply to Morin and colleagues.

No kinetic differences during variations of the power clean in inexperienced collegiate athletes (2013)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., McMahon, J., & Fletcher, C. (2013). No kinetic differences during variations of the power clean in inexperienced collegiate athletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 27(2), 363-368. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e31825489c6

Previous research has identified that the second pull phase of the clean generates the greatest power output and that the midthigh variations of the power clean also result in the greatest force and power output in male athletes; however, no research... Read More about No kinetic differences during variations of the power clean in inexperienced collegiate athletes.

Lower limb mechanical properties : determining factors and implications for performance (2012)
Journal Article
Pearson, S., & McMahon, J. (2012). Lower limb mechanical properties : determining factors and implications for performance. Sports Medicine, 42(11), 929-940. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03262304

Limb stiffness or musculotendinous stiffness (MTS) has previously been examined in relation to performance and characterized using a number of different methods. However, the fact that MTS shows only low to moderate correlations to performances may i... Read More about Lower limb mechanical properties : determining factors and implications for performance.

Lower limb stiffness: Effect on performance and training considerations (2012)
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Comfort, P., & Pearson, S. (2012). Lower limb stiffness: Effect on performance and training considerations. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 34(6), 94-101. https://doi.org/10.1519/SSC.0b013e3182781b4e

Summary: the aim of this review was to summarize the research to date on lower limb stiffness in relation to both its effect on performance and training considerations. Evidence suggests that some amount of lower limb stiffness is required for succes... Read More about Lower limb stiffness: Effect on performance and training considerations.

Determination of optimal load during the power clean, in collegiate athletes (2012)
Journal Article
Comfort, P., Fletcher, C., & McMahon, J. (2012). Determination of optimal load during the power clean, in collegiate athletes. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 26(11), 2962-2969. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0b013e318245bed4

Although previous research has been performed in similar areas of study, the optimal load for the development of peak power during training remains controversial, and this has yet to be established in collegiate level athletes. The purpose of this st... Read More about Determination of optimal load during the power clean, in collegiate athletes.

Lower limb stiffness: Considerations for female athletes
Journal Article
McMahon, J., Comfort, P., & Pearson, S. Lower limb stiffness: Considerations for female athletes. Strength and Conditioning Journal, 34(5), 70-73. https://doi.org/10.1519/SSC.0b013e318268131f

Women demonstrate lower limb stiffness recruitment strategies, which may predispose them to greater sustainment of lower limb injuries, particularly to the anterior cruciate ligament. To positively alter such strategies in women, lower limb muscle st... Read More about Lower limb stiffness: Considerations for female athletes.