Abstract
The 2021 study by Baena-Raya et al. evaluated whether a functional electromechanical dynamometer (FEMD) could replace traditional force plates for measuring isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) performance. The results showed that while FEMD is valid and reliable for measuring peak force, it is not reliable for explosive force metrics like the Rate of Force Development (RFD).
Practitioners can use FEMD as a viable alternative for assessing maximal strength in athletes. However, the study warns that absolute values differ between devices, so consistency in using one specific tool is required for long-term monitoring of an athlete's progress.