Resistance Training Practices of Sprint Coaches

ABSTRACT

Healy, R, Kenny, IC, and Harrison, AJ. Resistance training practices of sprint coaches. J Strength Cond Res 35(7): 1939-1948, 2021-This study describes the results of a survey of resistance training practices of sprint coaches. This study investigated why sprint coaches prescribe resistance training to their athletes, what exercises they select, and what factors are involved with their selection. Forty-one of 73 (56%) sprint coaches with mean ± SD coaching experience of 8.4 ± 6.4 years were included in this study. Coaches completed an online questionnaire consisting of 5 sections: (a) informed consent, (b) coach background information, (c) coach education and qualifications, (d) coaches' views on resistance training, and (e) exercise selection and preference. The results showed that coaches prescribe resistance training to their sprint athletes to develop strength and power, which they believe will transfer to sprint performance. Coaches prescribed a wide variety of traditional, ballistic, and plyometric exercises, with the hurdle jump found to be the most widely prescribed exercise (93% of coaches surveyed). Coaches selected exercises for a variety of reasons; however, the 3 most prominent reasons were: (a) performance adaptations; (b) practicality; and (c) the targeting of muscles/muscle groups. Coaches prioritized exercises that specifically developed strength, power, and reactive strength for their sprint athletes. This research can be used to develop educational resources for sprint coaches who wish to use resistance training with their athletes. In addition, sprint coaches can use the data presented to expand their current exercise repertoire and resistance training practices.

A new training method for leg explosive power in taekwondo and its data-driven predictive models

BACKGROUND: Kicking is the major way to score in a Taekwondo competition, which makes athletes’ leg power a key quality. However, the characteristics of leg power are very complex and it is difficult to generate physical models to predict training performance. OBJECTIVE: To study training programmes of leg power for Taekwondo using data-driven techniques in correlation analyses and modelling. METHODS: An 8-week program for back squat training was performed using two devices, a Cormax training system and a conventional barbell. Data analysis was conducted to identify the factors affecting the explosive power training. Finally, a data-driven modelling paradigm employing fuzzy rule-based systems was developed to predict the training performance. RESULTS: The Cormax system performed better in improving athletes’ maximum power and velocity. Maximum leg power was best correlated with athletes’ height. The developed predictive models showed good accuracy despite possession of limited training data. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated some new training devices which could greatly improve power training. Moreover, a state-of-the-art modelling strategy was able to construct accurate models for training and exercise performance. The predictive models will likely enhance the anticipation of training outcome in advance which may assist in formulating and improving the training programmes.

Kettlebell training in clinical practice: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

A scoping review of scientific literature on the effects of kettlebell training. There are no authoritative guidelines or recommendations for using kettlebells within a primary care setting. Our review objectives were to identify the extent, range and nature of the available evidence, to report on the types of evidence currently available to inform clinical practice, to synthesise key concepts, and identify gaps in the research knowledge base.

METHODS

Following the PRISMA-ScR Checklist, we conducted a search of 10 electronic databases from inception to 1 February 2019. There were no exclusions in searching for publications. A single reviewer screened the literature and abstracted data from relevant publications. Articles were grouped and charted by concepts and themes relevant to primary care, and narratively synthesised. Effect sizes from longitudinal studies were identified or calculated, and randomised controlled trials assessed for methodological quality.

RESULTS

Eight hundred and twenty-nine records were identified to 1 February 2019. Four hundred and ninety-six were screened and 170 assessed for eligibility. Ninety-nine publications met the inclusion criteria. Effect sizes were typically trivial to small. One trial used a pragmatic hardstyle training program among healthy college-age participants. Two trials reported the effects of kettlebell training in clinical conditions. Thirty-three studies explicitly used 'hardstyle' techniques and 4 investigated kettlebell sport. Also included were 6 reviews, 22 clinical/expert opinions and 3 case reports of injury. Two reviewers independently evaluated studies using a modified Downs & Black checklist.

CONCLUSIONS

A small number of longitudinal studies, which are largely underpowered and of low methodological quality, provide the evidence-informed therapist with little guidance to inform the therapeutic prescription of kettlebells within primary care. Confidence in reported effects is low to very low. The strength of recommendation for kettlebell training improving measures of physical function is weak, based on the current body of literature. Further research on reported effects is warranted, with inclusion of clinical populations and investigations of musculoskeletal conditions common to primary care. There is a need for an externally valid, standardised approach to the training and testing of kettlebell interventions, which better informs the therapeutic use of kettlebells in primary care.