Knowledge and understanding - Physical factorsStrength

Strength is the maximum force a muscle or group of muscle can apply against a resistance in a push, pull or lift motion. Strength can be further divided into static (the muscles contract and hold one position) and dynamic (the muscles move contracting and extending) and explosive strength or power (the muscle contraction happens at high speed).

Positive impact

A long jumper with good explosive strength will be able to transfer their running speed into height with their take off step, driving upwards and staying in the air for longer. As a result, the body travels forwards for longer and achieves a better distance overall.

A rugby forward with good strength will be able to hold their position in the scrum better and combine with teammates to hold the scrum position and then drive forward and have a better chance of pushing the opposing scrum back.

A gymnast with good static strength performing a rings routine will be able to hold the crucifix position with much more control and stability, resulting in a better score from the judges.

Negative impact

A swimmer with a lack of strength in the arms when swimming back crawl with not be able to pull their arm under the water with as much force, which results in less distance achieved with each stroke and less chance of winning the race.

A cyclist with a lack of strength in their legs will struggle to perform a steep climb in a race. Each turn of the pedal needs to be pushed hard with the legs to maintain a rhythm and get up the hill as quickly as possible. This lack of strength will affect the chances of winning the race.

A javelin thrower without the very important explosive strength in the throw will not achieve as much height and momentum with the javelin and this will result in a much shorter distance achieved.