A Specific Test of Starting Blocks: Intrasession and Intersession Reliability of Isometric Strength Using a Functional Electromechanical Dynamometer

Aims: To determine the intrasession and intersession reliability of the isometric force at three different starting block positions, to compare the intrasession and intersession reliability of the peak and average isometric force of three different starting block positions, and to compare the intrasession and intersession reliability of three different starting block positions. Methods: Eighteen male college students participated in this study. A repeated measures design was used to evaluate the intrasession and intersession reliability of isometric force in three different starting block positions. Results: Very high and extremely high reliability of the average and peak isometric force of the three positions of the starting blocks were obtained, with ICC ranging from 0.63 to 0.91 and a CV close to 10%. Peak force was able to determine the outcomes of the bilateral position with higher reliability than the mean force, and the dominant was the most reliable position for assessing the starting blocks. Conclusion: The functional electromechanical dynamometer can be used with a high level of reliability to assess the force exerted in the starting blocks.