A new method to assess the power performance during a lifting task in young adults

This study designs and verifies a new test for evaluating performance during a lifting task. 32 young men performed deadlift to high pull with increasing weights, and deadlift and upright row with a previously established weight of 70% 6RM, either using a Smith machine or free weights. Peak and mean power were significantly higher during deadlift to high pull with free weights than on the Smith machine, however only at ?50 kg. Their maximal values were achieved at about 80% and 70% 1RM. The deadlift to high pull with free weights is a reliable test with ICC > 0.80 and SEM < 10% for mean power. It is also a sensitive test for distinguishing lifting performance among healthy young individuals. It may be applied in functional performance testing of college graduate students and office workers with a prevalently sedentary lifestyle as well as construction workers with job demands based on lifting tasks.