A New Taxonomy for Postactivation Potentiation in Sport
This commentary presents and discusses the similarities and differences between PAP and PAPE and elaborates on a new taxonomy for better describing performance potentiation in sport settings, to avoid erroneous identification of isolated physiological attributes and provide individualization and better applicability of conditioning protocols in sport setting.
Abstract
<jats:p>Postactivation potentiation (PAP) mechanisms and responses have a long scientific history. However, to this day there is still controversy regarding the mechanisms underlying enhanced performance after a conditioning activity. More recently, the term <jats:italic>postactivation performance enhancement</jats:italic> (PAPE) has been proposed with differing associated mechanisms and protocols than with PAP. However, these 2 terms (PAP and PAPE) may not adequately describe all specific potentiation responses and mechanisms and can also be complementary, in some cases. <jats:italic><jats:bold>Purpose</jats:bold>:</jats:italic> This commentary presents and discusses the similarities and differences between PAP and PAPE and, subsequently, elaborates on a new taxonomy for better describing performance potentiation in sport settings. <jats:italic><jats:bold>Conclusion</jats:bold>:</jats:italic> The elaborated taxonomy proposes the formula “Post-[CONDITIONING ACTIVITY] [VERIFICATION TEST] potentiation in [POPULATION].” This taxonomy would avoid erroneous identification of isolated physiological attributes and provide individualization and better applicability of conditioning protocols in sport settings.</jats:p>