Supramaximal Walkouts and Back Squat Performance

The goal of this randomized, counterbalanced, crossover study is to determine the effectiveness of performing a supramaximal walkout on enhancing subsequent back squat performance in trained lifters. The main question we aim to answer is whether bar velocity, power output, perceived exertion, and muscle activation are altered when performing the back squat exercise after a supramaximal walkout. On the first visit, participants will be informed of the study protocols before providing oral and written informed consent. Afterwards, participants will complete maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) testing for the quadriceps and gluteus maximus muscle groups to generate a normalization for the electromyography (EMG) measurements. During the second visit, participants will perform a 1RM back squat. The third and fourth visits will be the experimental visits, where they will perform either a supramaximal (110% 1RM) or submaximal (control; 30% 1RM) walkout. A set of 1 back squat at 92.5% 1RM will be performed prior to the walkout to serve as a baseline, then 3 sets of 1 at 92.5% 1RM will be performed afterwards.