Reactive Strength Index

The reactive strength index (RSI) is a measure of lower-body reactive strength and elastic energy utilization, calculated as jump height divided by the contact time between landing from a drop and takeoff. Introduced by Bobbert and colleagues (1987), RSI quantifies the efficiency of the stretch-shortening cycle (SSC)—the ability to rapidly switch from eccentric (lengthening) to concentric (shortening) muscle contractions. High RSI indicates rapid, forceful engagement of muscles' elastic properties (tendons, contractile proteins) and is relevant in sports requiring rapid rebound (sprinting, jumping, rebounding). RSI is trainable and sensitive to plyometric training.