Alves, Adon V., Leicht, Anthony S., Deakin, Glen B., Doma, Kenji, Singh, Utkarsh, and Brice, Sara M. (2026) Joint-Level Analysis of the Barbell Back Squat During Chain and Elastic Variable Resistance Use. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 40. pp. 511-518.

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Abstract

This study identifies the kinetic and kinematic differences between elastic (EVR) and chain variable resistance (CVR), and free-weight resistance (FW) use during the barbell back squat. Fifteen men (1RM = 124.2 ± 30.4 kg) completed 5 sessions during 4 weeks: 1-repetition maximum (1RM) testing session; variable resistance (VR) familiarization session; and 3 testing sessions. Peak ground reaction force (GRF) and rate of force development (RFD), along with sagittal plane joint range of motion (ROM), angular velocity, moments, and power, were examined. Peak GRF was significantly greater for FW than for both VR conditions (p < 0.05). Concentric RFD was significantly greater for CVR than for FW (p < 0.05). No differences in joint ROM were observed across the 3 conditions (p > 0.05). In most cases, both VR conditions elicited faster lower limb angular velocities than FW during the concentric and eccentric phases (p < 0.05). Despite external resistance differences, ankle and knee joint moments were similar for both VR types and FW, while FW produced greater hip and lumbar spine moments (p < 0.05). Free-weight resistance also produced greater eccentric lumbopelvis moments than EVR (p < 0.05). Comparing VR types, CVR produced greater concentric hip, lumbopelvis, and lumbar spine moments than EVR (p < 0.05). Both VR conditions produced greater knee concentric power than FW, while CVR also produced greater hip power than FW (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that CVR may be preferential to EVR for increased power adaptation. In addition, for those prone to lumbar injuries, EVR may be preferential because it provides sufficient lower limb stimulation while decreasing spinal loading.

Item ID:	91296
Item Type:	Article (Research - C1)
ISSN:	1533-4287
Copyright Information:	© 2026 National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Date Deposited:	01 May 2026 00:26
FoR Codes:	51 PHYSICAL SCIENCES > 5105 Medical and biological physics > 510501 Biological physics @ 50% 42 HEALTH SCIENCES > 4207 Sports science and exercise > 420701 Biomechanics @ 50%
SEO Codes:	28 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 2801 Expanding knowledge > 280120 Expanding knowledge in the physical sciences @ 50% 28 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 2801 Expanding knowledge > 280112 Expanding knowledge in the health sciences @ 50%
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