Validity and Reliability GymAware PowerTool

Here’s an example of one of the many validation studies performed on the GymAware VBT device. This study is called:

“Validity and reliability of a linear positional transducer across commonly practised resistance training exercises.”

By Harry F. Dorrell , Joseph M. Moore , Mark F. Smith and Thomas I. Gee Human Performance Centre, School of Sport and Exercise Science, College of Social Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK

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This study investigated the validity and reliability of the GymAware PowerTool (GPT). Thirteen resistance trained participants completed three visits, consisting of three repetitions of free-weight back squat, bench press, deadlift (80% one repetition maximum), and countermovement jump. Bar displacement, peak and mean velocity, peak and mean force, and jump height were calculated using the GPT, a threedimensional motion capture system (Motion Analysis Corporation; 150 Hz), and a force plate (Kistler; 1500 Hz). Least products regression were used to compare agreeability between devices.

A within-trial one-way ANOVA, typical error (TE; %), and smallest worthwhile change (SWC) were used to assess reliability. Regression analysis resulted in R2 values of >0.85 for all variables excluding deadlift mean velocity (R2 = 0.54–0.69). Significant differences were observed between visits 3-2 for bench press bar displacement (0.395 ± 0.055 m; 0.383 ± 0.053 m), and deadlift bar displacement (0.557 ± 0.034 m; 0.568 ± 0.034 m). No other significant differences were found. Low to moderate TE (0.6–8.8%) were found for all variables, with SWC ranging 1.7–7.4%. The data provides evidence that the GPT can be used to measure kinetic and kinematic outputs, however, care should be taken when monitoring deadlift performance.

Download and read the full research paper or learn more about the accuracy and reliablity of GymAware.