The stretch-shortening cycle effect: History-dependent muscle properties matter

14 Oktober 2026

Hahn, D., Seiberl, W., & Siebert, T. (2026). The stretch-shortening cycle effect: History-dependent muscle properties matterExercise and Sport Sciences Reviews https://doi.org/10.1249/JES.0000000000000400

Abstract:

The SSC effect – increased force, work, and power during shortening of stretch-shortening cycles compared with shortening alone – has long been attributed to stretch reflexes, preactivation, elastic recoil, and muscle-tendon unit decoupling. However, we hypothesize that contractile component mechanisms related to residual force enhancement can contribute substantially to the SSC effect. This article reviews current evidence for this history-dependent SSC-effect hypothesis.

Summary: The contractile mechanism underlying residual force enhancement, especially titin, can substantially contribute to the stretch-shortening cycle effect.

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Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Seiberl

Professur für Bewegungswissenschaften mit einem Schwerpunkt Digitalisierung