Strength training x power training: performance changes and morphological adaptations

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the changes in maximum strength and morphological adaptations after a strength and a power training programs. Forty subjects were randomly divided into a strength training group (TF; 178.7 ± 4.3 cm; 75.2 ± 7.3 kg; 22.5 ± 3.8 years), a power training group (TP; 177.0 ± 5.9 cm; 76.0 ± 8.9 kg; 24.2 ± 4.1 years), and a control group (C; 178.9 ± 11.0 cm; 74.1 ± 9.6 kg; 24.1 ± 2.7 years). Subjects in the TF and TP underwent an 8-week, three sessions per week, training program. The TF performed the squat exercise with loads from 60 to 95% of the squat 1 RM, while the TP used loads from 30 to 60% of 1 RM, as fast as possible. Maximum strength and type I, type IIa, and type IIb cross sectional area were evaluated before and after the training programs. TF and TP increased maximum strength from pre- to post-training (p < 0.001), but there were no difference between them (p >; 0.05). There was a main time effect for muscle cross sectional area for all fiber types (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the TF and the TP produced similar strength gains and muscle fiber hypertrophy after an 8-week training period.