Power Loss Minimization Through Maximal Power Endurance or Repeated Power Training Programs.

Abstract

Purpose: The present study analyzed the effects of a maximal-power-endurance (MPE) versus a repeated-power-ability (RPA) training program on different strength, power, and repeated-power measurements in a short- and long-term training period and the relationships between changes in all variables.

Methods: Twenty-two young highly trained male basketball players were randomly allocated to 1 of the 2 groups (MPE, n = 11; RPA, n = 11) and evaluated by 1-repetition maximum and incremental load, RPA, and MPE tests in the bench-press exercise before and after a period of 4 and 8 weeks. The MPE group performed 2 to 4 sets of a postdetermined number of repetitions (ie, set stopped when maximum power output decreased >10%) using the load that maximized power output. The RPA group carried out 1 to 3 blocks of 5 sets of 5 repetitions with a load that maximized power output.

Results: Both groups significantly (P < .001; effect size = 0.58; 1.56) improved 1-repetition maximum, maximum power output, and 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of 1-repetition maximum from pretest to posttest in the incremental load test. Significant improvements (P < .001) were found for the RPA and MPE groups in the best, mean, and last set in the RPA test at all times. Furthermore, a significant (P < .001) time × group interaction was found in the MPE test, showing significant improvements in both groups at posttest. In addition, at posttest, intraset power fluctuation in the mean was significantly (P < .05; effect size = 0.45) better in MPE group compared with RPA group.

Conclusion: In conclusion, both training programs represent appropriate methods to improve neuromuscular measurements, although MPE training seems to be a more volume-efficient strategy (∼50% fewer repetitions) to enhance several fatigue-resistance indexes (intraset power fluctuation in the mean).