Using Multiple-Hop Assessments and Reactive Strength Indices to Differentiate Sprinting Performance in Sportsmen

Abstract

Multiple-hop tests are commonly used in both performance and rehabilitation settings to assess neuromuscular function. This study aimed to explore the relationship between hop performance and sprint ability. Specifically, it focused on three goals: (1) examining the connection between 3-Hop and 5-Hop distances and sprint performance and comparing the strength of relationship between hop kinetics and sprint times; (2) investigating two methods of calculating the 3-Hop and 5-Hop Reactive Strength Indexes (RSIhors) and their relationship to sprinting; and (3) assessing whether hop ratios or kinetic variables could distinguish sprinters of varying abilities. Forty-four male sportsmen participated, completing 3-Hop and 5-Hop tests and sprint times (5–45 m) over 54 inground force platforms. Ground reaction forces (GRFs) were collected during hop trials and horizontal and vertical hop propulsive and braking kinetics were determined. Results showed strong negative correlations between hop distances and sprint times (r = −0.700 to −0.796), while kinetic variables showed weaker relationships with sprint performance (r = −0.554 to 0.017). RSIhor, derived from hop distance, correlated more strongly with sprint performance than RSIhor from flight time. Hop ratios (5-Hop/3-Hop) did not differentiate fast from slow sprinters, and maximal vertical force and horizontal propulsive impulse were the best predictors of 10 m and 40 m sprint times. These findings suggest that hop distance and RSIhor are valuable tools for assessing sprint performance and reactive strength.