Complex Network Analysis of Back Squats Pre-Activation on Parameters of a 3-minute All-out Test in Recreational Runners

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the impact of post-activation potentiation enhancement (PAPE) on parameters of 3-minute all-out test (3MT) on non-motorized tethered running performance by applying the concept of complex networks for integrative analysis. Ten recreational sports athletes where submitted to anthropometric tests, 1RM ramp, and 3MT trials (PAPE and CONTROL conditions) across five separate test sessions. The conditioning activity model applied was two series of six back squats at 60% 1RM. Based on the complex network, graphs were constructed for each scenario (CONTROL and PAPE) to investigate the Degree, Eigenvector, Pagerank, and Betweenness centrality metrics. PAPE scenario shows greater centrality of anthropometrics and conditioning parameters related to aerobic efficiency, ranking among the top-five classified nodes. Paired Student t-test (p ≤ 0.05) results for 3MT showed differences between two conditions (PAPE vs. CONTROL) for values of EP-W (407.83 ± 119.30; 539.33 ± 177.10) and rEP-W.kg-1(5.38 ± 1.70; 6.91 ± 2.00), and mechanical parameters in absolute and relativized values of peak output power, mean output power, peak force, and mean force. Our results suggest that PAPE modifies the graphs' configuration, raising the network density, and may increase the neuromuscular functions and running economy. In addition, it seems to optimize the activation of aerobic and anaerobic metabolism.