The effect of strength training with different frequency on untrained university students

Abstract

Purpose: The target of this paper was to examine the effects of strength training with different frequency on physical, performance and strength features on untrained university male students. Material: 24 subjects (age = 21.47+1.50) were divided into three groups; 8 for strength training group once a week (ST1), 8 for strength training group three times a week (ST3) and 8 for control group (CG). The training groups were applied a 6-week ST that lasted approximately 80-90 minutes for each training 3 days a week for ST3 and once a week for ST1. Analysis of intergroup, intragroup and the effect of training were carried out with repeated measures ANOVA. Significance was set at 0.05. Results: There was no difference in body weight and body mass index values in training groups, while a significant increase was found in CG. In addition, there was a significant decrease in body fat percentage and a significant increase in skeleton muscle mass without any change in body weight and body mass index in ST3. No statistical difference was seen in 10-20 m sprint and agility tests in all groups. For vertical jump, balance test for right and left leg, there was a significant difference between the pre and post-test measurements of ST1 and ST3. In standing long jump measurements, significance was seen in favor of ST3. In strength parameter, while a significant difference was detected in bench press, shoulder press and push-up due to the development of training groups, a statistically significance was found in squat and biceps curl by reason of improvement in ST3. Conclusions: As a conclusion, it can be said that 6-week strength training with different frequency applied on untrained male students has a positive effect on physical, performance and strength features.