Validity and reliability of flywheel resistance technology as an assessment method and its association with sports performance and asymmetry: a systematic review
Article
Mak, M., Bishop, C. and Beato, M. 2025. Validity and reliability of flywheel resistance technology as an assessment method and its association with sports performance and asymmetry: a systematic review. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 39 (7), pp. e930-e948. https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000005146
| Type | Article |
|---|---|
| Title | Validity and reliability of flywheel resistance technology as an assessment method and its association with sports performance and asymmetry: a systematic review |
| Authors | Mak, M., Bishop, C. and Beato, M. |
| Abstract | Flywheel technology is commonly used in training but remains underutilized for monitoring and testing. Flywheel devices can provide valuable data from mechanical outputs during both concentric and eccentric movements. This systematic review assesses its validity and reliability for evaluating sports performance and limb asymmetry. Searches were conducted in PubMed, SPORT-Discus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science following PRISMA DTA guidelines, focusing on keywords related to flywheel testing. Results show that flywheel testing is reliable (ICC=0.66-0.99, r=0.69-0.97, α=0.85-0.98) and valid for the athletic population when subjects undergo two familiarization sessions. The test can be conducted using rotary encoders, force plates, linear encoders, or inertial measurement units. Participants may perform 1-2 pre-repetitions followed by 5-10 recording repetitions with 1-4 sets and 2-3 minutes of rest between sets. Moment of inertia can be customized based on the athlete's experience and the type of flywheel device used. Key metrics for assessment encompass speed, force, and power, with peak power being the most commonly employed parameter. Few samples of evidence showed that increased asymmetry in concentric power may negatively affect change of direction performance, emphasizing the need for more high-quality studies. In conclusion, flywheel technology offers valuable insights across various movements, providing strength and power assessment while potentially improving athletic performance and injury prevention. Continued research is vital to explore its effectiveness in diverse athletic contexts. |
| Sustainable Development Goals | 3 Good health and well-being |
| Middlesex University Theme | Health & Wellbeing |
| Publisher | Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins |
| Journal | The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research |
| ISSN | 1064-8011 |
| Electronic | 1533-4287 |
| Publication dates | |
| Jul 2025 | |
| Publication process dates | |
| Accepted | 05 Mar 2025 |
| Deposited | 06 Mar 2025 |
| Output status | Published |
| Accepted author manuscript | File Access Level Open |
| Copyright Statement | This is a pre-copyedited, author-produced version of an article accepted for publication in Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. The published version of record - Mak, Mark C. W.; Bishop, Chris; Beato, Marco. Validity and Reliability of Flywheel Resistance Technology as an Assessment Method and Its Association With Sports Performance and Asymmetry: A Systematic Review. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 39(7):p e930-e948, July 2025. | DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000005146 - is available online at: https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/fulltext/2025/07000/validity_and_... |
| Web address (URL) | https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/fulltext/2025/07000/validity_and_reliability_of_flywheel_resistance.24.aspx |
| Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1519/JSC.0000000000005146 |
https://repository.mdx.ac.uk/item/216w52
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