Velocity-based training (VBT) has become increasingly incorporated into mainstream sports and athletic training because of technological advancements and social media. But is there a place for it in training the tactical athlete? VBT is a great tool as it not only measures the bar speed or the power output an athlete is generating but it also is used as a predictor of a one-repetition maximum (1RM), through the utilization of sub-maximal loads.
VBT is measured through technology with the use of linear position transducers, that measure movement through a linear plane or accelerometers during movements like a bench press or squat. A lot of VBT measurements are directly physically connected to a barbell whereas other tools require the use of a camera system that measures the bar speed movement. When a coach is training an athlete, a lot of the feedback may be subjective. That is, the coach may perceive the athlete needs to be more powerful but this is based upon their opinion or perspective. With VBT the coach has the verifiable data present to make a well-formed assessment based upon the data analysis and can quantify the need for “more explosive power by moving the bar faster” based on the facts reported from the VBT device which is gauged objectively.