Flexibility-Velocity Sensitivity Index
The Flexibility-Velocity Sensitivity Index (FVSI) was developed by John M.E Imola and Kenneth T.C Imola to measure the relationship between the change in speed of a body and its ability to stretch. This index is a measure of the balance between endurance and flexibility, which has implications for performance in wide range of sports.
FVSI is important for athletes who participate in explosive sports, such as basketball, soccer, or track and field. It is used to measure the rate of change in flexibility as a body accelerates or decelerates in order to gain a competitive edge. Athletes with greater FVSI values can improve their performance by being able to move quickly while still maintaining full range of motion.
The FVSI test consists of three components: Speed, Flexibility, and Change of Speed.
Speed: The athlete is asked to perform a set number of repetitions at a set speed. The average speed of the repetitions is then measured and used to calculate a speed score.
Flexibility: The athletes flexibility is then measured by having them perform a series of stretching exercises at a specific speed. The range of motion achieved for each movement is the flexibility score.
Change of Speed: The time it takes for the athlete to transition from one speed to another is then measured. The time gap between the start and end of the speed transition is used to calculate the Change of Speed Score.
The results of the FVSI test are then used to determine the flexibility/velocity sensitivity index. This is done by calculating the athletes speed score, flexibility score, and change of speed score and then dividing them by the sum of all three scores. A FVSI of 1.0 indicates that the athlete has good balance between flexibility and velocity, while a score of 0.99 or lower may indicate that the athlete is too stiff and not able to keep up with the velocity changes.
The FVSI is a valuable tool used to measure the capacity of an athlete to increase speed while still maintaining range of motion. It can be used to evaluate and assess the progress of an athlete throughout the training program and ensure that they are able to reach their desired level of performance. It is also helpful for coaches who want to ensure that their athletes are well-prepared for competition. By monitoring their FVSI levels, coaches can ensure that their athletes are working at their optimum capacity and that they are properly conditioned for the demands of their sport.
Overall, the flexibility/velocity sensitivity index is a useful tool that can provide coaches and athletes with insight into the balance between flexibility and velocity in a athletes performance. The FVSI test is a reliable measure of an athletes capacity to move quickly while maintaining full range of motion and is a useful tool for coaches and athletes who are looking to improve their performance.