Effects of short inter-repetition rest periods on power output losses during the half squat exercise

BACKGROUND: Cluster training is being increasingly used to develop muscular power. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of short inter-repetition rest (IRR) periods on the capacity to maintain maximal levels of power output. METHODS:In afirst session, 16 active-duty soldiers performed a progressive loading test toestablish the load linked tomaximal power (optimal load, OL), and the half squat 1-repetition maximum. In Session 2, six individual sets of repetitions performed to failure (or a maximum of 20 repetitions) were conducted using the loads OL, low (LL, 15% below OL), and high (HL, 15% above OL) as quickly as possible. For each load, participants performed one set without rest between r…