Efficacy of the Humac Maximal Exertion Power Output Test

Indianapolis, IN

The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of the Humac Isokinetic (Cybex) Maximal Exertion Power Output Test. Validity was operationally defined as follows: test results will be maximal on the first trial and will not increase on subsequent trials. In other words, a familiarization period does not exist, so several trials are not required in order to obtain maximal performance results. Six male college aged (18-22) subjects were tested and retested. Three subjects were highly trained and three were not. Dependent variables included peak torque (foot-pounds), heart rate, and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE). Tests were conducted with ample time between sessions to allow complete recovery. It was hypothesized that the test will be valid for trained athletes. It also was hypothesized that the test will not be valid for untrained subjects. Data collection is ongoing, but early results indicate support for both hypotheses.