Gender-Specific Association of the Sprint Mechanical Properties With Change of Direction Performance in Basketball

We evaluated the gender-specific associations between the mechanical variables derived from the horizontal force-velocity (FV) profile (i.e., theoretical maximal force [F-0], velocity [V-0], maximal power output [Pmax], peak ratio of the effective horizontal component [RFpeak], and the force application technique index [D-RF]) and the change of direction (COD) performance for basketball players. Seventy-one players (23 women and 48 men) were assessed for the horizontal FV profile and COD using the modified 505 and V-cut tests. The FV profile parameters were significantly higher for the men than those for the women. The F-0 , RFpeak , and Pmax were strongly associated with performance in the 505 test (women r(range) = -0.72 to -0.82; men: r(range) = -0.67 to -0.75; p < 0.001) and the V-cut test (women r(range) = -0.68 to -0.76; men r(range) = -0.45 to -0.50; p < 0.001), as well as with a lower COD deficit (women r(range )= 0.58 to 0.75 ( p < 0.01); men r(range) = 0.49 to 0.54; all p < 0.001). For the women, a 1 N.kg(-1) increase of the F-0 was associated with -0.20 seconds and -0.56 seconds in the 505 and V-cut tests, respectively, and 0.16 seconds for the COD deficit. In the men, it was associated with -0.13 seconds and -0.37 seconds in the 505 and V-cut tests, respectively, and 0.10 seconds for the COD deficit. F-0 , RFpeak , and Pmax are the most determinant sprint mechanical properties to successfully COD and reduce the COD deficit. The horizontal FV profile assessment is recommended for diagnosing and prescribing a training program for basketball players.