Need More Strength or More Spring?

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What your Eccentric Utilization Ratio (EUR) tells us

Hey team—Ben here. Ever feel springy in warm-ups but heavy when it counts? Your jump has a tell. In two quick tests I can see whether you need more engine (strength) or more spring (elastic pop)—so your training actually moves the needle.

What is EUR?

On our force plates we compare two jumps: a Squat Jump (SJ) from a pause (no wind-up) and a Countermovement Jump (CMJ) with a quick dip.
EUR = CMJ ÷ SJ.

  • SJ ≈ your engine (force from a dead stop)
  • CMJ ≈ engine + spring (how well you use the stretch–shortening cycle)

The key metrics I look at: peak power plus asymmetry.

Because we’re measuring true force–time data, I can calculate peak power in both jumps and quantify left–right asymmetry. Together, these tell me whether you’ll progress faster with more strength or more spring—and whether any imbalances might limit performance or affect return-to-play. Asymmetry is central to how I check structural balance and guide return-from-injury progressions.

Your score → your next move

(I use a strength/plyometric decision framework to make clear calls.)

EUR Table

How I test this at Northern Strength

In minutes I’ll capture SJ + CMJ and asymmetry on our force plates. Because we’re directly measuring forces at high sampling rates, we get lab-level accuracy for peak power, asymmetry, and other markers. These data drive your training plan, inform structural balance work, and support return-from-injury decisions. This pro-sport–caliber service is available right here, and it reflects our philosophy: we train everyone like an athlete and coach every athlete toward their full potential.

What’s in the Complete Package Sport Science Assessment?

  • Body Composition Testing
  • Movement Scan (screen + targeted strength/power checks)
  • VO₂ Max Test (with individualized training zones)
  • Force Plate Testing (SJ, CMJ, peak power, asymmetry)
  • Coach Consult + Action Plan (clear next steps: more strength or more spring)

Ready to find out your EUR (and fix asymmetries)?