Power
Power: Power is defined as the rate at which work is performed, mathematically defined as:
- Power = (Force × Distance) ÷ Time
This equation can also be expressed as:
- Power = Force × Velocity
In health and human performance, the term "power" refers to an individual's ability to generate force rapidly, which is a key component of athletic explosiveness. Power is a term distinct from strength, which emphasizes maximal force production regardless of speed/time. Power is most relevant in high-velocity movements such as sprinting, jumping, throwing, plyometric exercises, and Olympic Lifts.
- Related Topics: Power , Plyometric Exercise , Stretch-shortening Cycle , Force-velocity Curve , Amortization Phase , Rate of Force Development , Counter-movement Jump (CMJ)
Related Courses:
- Power (High-velocity) Training: Introduction
- Lower Body Power Exercises
- Upper Body Power Exercises and Total Body Power Exercises
Frequently Asked Questions
What is power in exercise science?
- Power is the ability to generate force quickly. It combines force with speed (velocity), making it a critical factor in explosive athletic movements such as jumping, sprinting, and throwing.
How is power different from strength?
- Strength is the ability to generate maximal force, regardless of speed. In simple terms, strength is "how much," power is "how fast."
How do I train to improve power?
- Training methods include plyometrics, jumps, medicine ball throws, and velocity-based resistance training. Often, the goal is to optimize the Stretch-shortening Cycle .
Why is power important in sports?
- Power enhances performance in movements that require speed and explosiveness, such as sprinting, jumping, tackling, punching, or changing direction quickly. It also contributes to injury prevention by improving reactive strength and neuromuscular efficiency.
Is power only important for athletes?
- No. Power is crucial in general fitness and rehabilitation, especially for aging populations. The ability to produce force quickly is a component of various functional tasks such as running and recreational sports, as well as activities of daily living, such as preventing falls, rising from a chair, or climbing stairs.
Is explosive power genetic?
- Explosive power is influenced by both genetics and training. Variations in genetic code (genetic polymorphisms) influence traits such as endurance, strength, and power. For example, the ACTN3 polymorphism alters muscle fiber types, influencing sprinting and explosive strength. However, training can significantly improve power output regardless of genetic baseline—especially with consistent plyometric and strength training. (Sources: Ma, 2013; Tesch & Larsson, 1982; Jones et al., 2004)
At what age do we start losing athletic power?
- Research suggests that muscular power begins to decline as early as the third decade of life (30s), with noticeable reductions typically occurring by the age of 40. This decline accelerates with age, especially if power is not specifically trained. The loss of Type II (fast-twitch) fibers contributes significantly to reduced power output over time. (Sources: Vandervoort, 2002; Skelton et al., 1994)
Do we lose athletic power and strength at different rates?
- Yes. Power declines faster than strength with aging. This is due to a more rapid reduction in fast-twitch muscle fibers and neuromuscular responsiveness, which are essential for high-velocity contractions. While both strength and power decrease over time, the ability to generate force quickly (power) is more vulnerable and thus more important to preserve through targeted training (Sources: Fielding et al., 2002; Hunter et al., 2004; Reid & Fielding, 2012)