Comparison between two strength training systems on the maximum muscular strength performance

Abstract

The goal of the present study was to compare traditional (ST) and pyramid (SP) strength training systems during eight weeks on the maximum muscular strength performance. Eighteen experienced in strength training men were divided into two groups of nine volunteers. Four times a week, the ST group trained in three sets of eight repetitions (75% of 1RM) and the SP group in three sets of 10, eight and six repetitions (70%, 75% and 80% of 1RM, respectively). All subjects were submitted to an anthropometric evaluation, followed by 1RM test in the bench press and squat exercises, which were repeated after eight weeks of training. The difference between the attained 1RM for each system was studied using Mann-Whitney test and the Wilcoxon paired test was applied to compare pre- and post-training. No significant differences were recorded between ST and SP bench press (125 ± 19 kg and 120 ± 17.0 kg) and squat (124 ± 18 kg and 120 ± 17 kg). Furthermore, no significant differences were found between the pre- and post-training periods. According to the present results, both training systems produced similar effects on the maximum muscular strength performance.