Effects of functional weightlifting training on lifting strength and isokinetic peak torque of trunk and limb muscles

Abstract

This study examined the effects of a functional squat lift training programme on the maximum lifting strength and isokinetic peak torque of trunk and limb muscles in normal subjects. Nineteen healthy male and female adults were studied (training group, n = 12; control group, n = 7). The lifting strength of each subject in both groups was determined using a psychophysical approach, and the isokinetic peak torque of the trunk extensors, knee extensors, elbow flexors and shoulder abductors of the non-dominant limbs was measured before and after the study. The subjects in the training group underwent a functional squat lift training programme on alternate days with an initial load at 80% of their maximum lifting capacity and this load was increased progressively by 5% each week. The subjects in the control group did not receive any training. After 4 weeks of training, the subjects in the control group demonstrated greater improvement in lifting strength (P<0.01) and isokinetic back extensors peak torque (P<0.05) than the subjects in the control group. These two parameters also demonstrated a positive correlation (r = 0.75, P<0.05). The improvement could have been due to learning effects, because of the short training period. This study confirms that a functional activity oriented training programme improves performance in specific functional tasks.