Isometrics for Performance

The other day I was reading about vertical jumping and sprint performance. The discussion was about the idea that as an athlete reaches extension, or toe off, they want to be accelerating maximally. Conventional strength training on squats, while developing maximal strength, teach the body to decelerate as the athlete reaches toe off. This could greatly reduce sport performance. Now we find ourselves in a predicament.

How can we improve absolute strength/maximal strength while still learning proper motor patterns?

The answer is quite simple, really.

Isometric training performed in the stretch position.

We know that strength developed while performing isometrics in a stretched position will transfer to a whole range of movement. When performing an isometric squat, the bar is held in the bottom position, and when fatigue is reached, the bar is rested on the support pins.

This leaves us with the training of maximal strength, that transfers to full range of motion, that doesn't teach improper motor patterns.

It's a win/win