Abstract

Background: Paralympic powerlifting (PP) competition demands maximal concentric force exertion during the bench press. Since modifying the eccentric tempo can directly affect concentric outcomes, this study aimed to investigate the effects of different bench press eccentric tempos on dynamic and static strength performance in PP athletes. Methods: sixteen experienced PP athletes executed slower, faster, and normative bench press eccentric tempos in a randomized crossover way. maximum velocity (VMax), mean propulsive velocity (MPV), and power (P) were measured during a single set of 5 maximum repetitions (80–90% 1RM) of bench press, as is usually used in training. Maximal isometric force, rate of force development, impulse, isometric force variability, and maximal isometric force over one second (MIFO1s) were measured after the same bench press set. Results: A faster eccentric tempo resulted in higher MPV and P compared to a slower tempo, but no significant differences were found in any variable when comparing the normative condition with either the faster or slower conditions. The normative tempo stimulated higher impulse and MIFO1s than the faster tempo, with no differences between slow and normative tempos. Conclusions: The normally accustomed execution proved to be more effective than both slower and faster rhythms in enhancing neuromuscular outcomes in experienced PP athletes. Slower and faster cadences appear to reduce dynamic and static strength indicators, suggesting that experienced lifters may have an optimized eccentric execution. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag Italia S.r.l., part of Springer Nature 2025.