WEIGHTLIFTERS EXHIBIT GREATER MUSCLE POWER AND LOWER BACK FLEXIBILITY THAN NON-WEIGHTLIFTERS 1142

Résumé fourni par la source

The purpose of this study was to compare muscle power, flexibility, and body composition in male weightlifters and non-weightlifters. Three groups were recruited: competitive weightlifters (C) (n=13, mean=43.2 ± SD 6.8yrs), recreational weightlifters (R) (n=14, mean=46.2 ± 7.4yrs), and non-weightlifters (N) (n=13, mean=45.7 ± 17.7yrs). Subjects had no history of anabolic steroid use. C and R had similar years lifting, but C had significantly greater lifting hrs/wk, and higher intensity of training than R. Body composition was evaluated by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (Hologic QDR 1000/W). Muscle power was represented by vertical jump height. Flexibility of the lower back was assessed utilizing the MacRae and Wright protocol. Analysis of variance revealed no significant differences between R and N on any parameter. Lean mass was significantly higher (p<0.05), and percent bodyfat significantly lower (p<0.01) in C compared to R and N. Muscle power and lower back flexibility were significantly higher by 28% (p<0.001), and 17% (p<0.05), respectively, in C compared to R and N. In conclusion: 1) Competitive weightlifters have significantly higher muscle power, lower back flexibility, and lean mass, and lower percent bodyfat than recreational weightlifters and non-weightlifters. 2) These results may reflect the emphasis competitive weightlifters place on full-range, multi-joint exercises such as squats and deadlifts. These movements, which target the hips, thighs, and lower back, may enhance muscle power and flexibility specific to those areas.

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