Velocity Based Training: Application Foundation and Training Effects

Velocity based training (VBT) is a contemporary new method of resistance training that enables accurate and objective prescription of resistance training intensity and volumes in real time based on the perfect relationship between movement velocity and%1RM (percentage of 1 maximal strength), repetitions and fatigue. The evidences on foundation and training effects of VBT are summarized and analyzed from PubMed, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). The results show: A strong linear relationship exists between the mean velocity/mean propulsive velocity and%1RM in multi-joint resistance training movements, and velocity can be adopted to estimate the intensity (%1RM) based on the individual load and velocity profile; There is a strong correlation between the percentage of velocity loss (VL) and the percentage of repetitions, and the relationship model can be used to accurately calculate the repetitions; The VL can be used to assess the level of efforts and fatigue, and limit the negative effects of excessive fatigue in resistance training; Compared with the traditional percentage-based resistance training, VBT can improve the athletic performance better with lower fatigue and training volume; VBT is likely to become a new trend of resistance training in the future. Future research in sports science should focus more on VBT in China.