Alterations in Strength Characteristics for Isometric and Dynamic Mid-Thigh Pulls in Collegiate Throwers Across 11 Weeks of Training

Aim: The purpose of this study was: 1) to investigate the alterations and relationships among training variables, performance variables, and physiological variables and 2) investigate the effects of strength training on potentiation complexes. Methods: The study enrolled nine D-1 collegiate throwers and four control subjects. The throwers participated in an 11-week resistance training and throws program. Resistance training volume load and throwing volume were recorded for 11 weeks. Measurements of maximal strength (isometric mid-thigh pulls) and dynamic mid-thigh pulls (DMTP) across a spectrum of loads: Males- 60kg, 140kg, 180kg, 220kg, 140kg, 30% isometric peak force (IPF), Females- 60kg, 80kg, 100kg, 120kg, 80kg, 30% IPF), were measured at weeks 1, 7, and 11. The control group was tested for isometric maximum strength at T1 (week 1) and T3 (week 11) Results: The throwers increased at each time point in isometric peak force (IPF), allometrically scaled IPF (IPFa), and isometric impulse. The throwers strength (IPF and IPFa) was significantly greater than the controls and the throwers experienced statistically significant changes in maximum strength from T1 to T3 when compared to the controls. The throwers demonstrated statistically significant changes in total load variables (variable for load 1+ load 2 + load 3 etc.) for DMTPs. Conclusion: As a whole these data suggest a potential for increased performance capabilities specific to throwing. Some data trends indicate that potentiation can occur as a result of performing a heavy pull before a lighter one. However, increasing maximum strength as a result of focusing on strength training did not enhance this potentiation effect