Effects of weighted jump-squat set configuration on acute explosive performance and fatigue responses in resistance-trained men: a randomized crossover study

Weighted jump squats are commonly used to acutely enhance explosive performance, but the optimal organization of repetitions and rest intervals remains unclear. This study compared the effects of traditional, cluster, and rest-redistributed weighted jump-squat configurations on countermovement-jump performance, blood lactate concentration, and perceived exertion in resistance-trained men. Twenty-four participants completed a randomized, counterbalanced crossover study involving three protocols performed at 30% of back-squat one-repetition maximum: traditional sets (TS, 3 × 10 repetitions with 120 s inter-set rest), cluster sets (CS, 6 × 5 repetitions with 48 s inter-set rest), and rest redistribution (RR, 3 × [5 + 5] repetitions with 40 s intra-set and 60 s inter-set rest). Total repetitions, external load, and programmed rest were matched across conditions. Countermovement-jump performance and blood lactate concentration were assessed at baseline, immediately postexercise, and at + 4, +8, and + 12 min. RPE was assessed at 0, + 4, +8, and + 12 min. At 8 min postexercise, VJH increased by 0.6 cm (95% CI, 0.2–1.0; 1.4%), 3.2 cm (95% CI, 2.7–3.7; 7.1%), and 2.5 cm (95% CI, 2.0–3.0; 5.4%) following TS, CS, and RR, respectively. Corresponding increases in RPP were 0.7 W·kg⁻¹ (95% CI, 0.3–1.1; 1.5%), 4.7 W·kg⁻¹ (95% CI, 4.2–5.2; 9.1%), and 3.2 W·kg⁻¹ (95% CI, 2.9–3.5; 6.2%), respectively. BLC and RPE were consistently highest following TS, intermediate following RR, and lowest following CS ( p < 0.05). These findings suggest that cluster-set weighted jump squats may be preferable for enhancing acute explosive performance while reducing metabolic and perceptual fatigue. ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN91525461. Retrospectively registered on 6 July 2026.