Power Loss Minimization Through Maximal Power Endurance or Repeated Power Training Programs.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Strength and Conditioning

Background:

• Optimizing training programs for athletes requires understanding the specific adaptations induced by different methodologies.
• Maximal-power-endurance (MPE) and repeated-power-ability (RPA) training are distinct approaches to developing power and fatigue resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of MPE versus RPA training on strength, power, and repeated-power measures over short (4 weeks) and long (8 weeks) training periods.
• To examine the relationships between the changes in these neuromuscular variables following each training program.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-two elite male basketball players were divided into MPE and RPA training groups.
• Training interventions involved specific protocols for MPE (load maximizing power, set stopped when power dropped >10%) and RPA (blocks of 5 sets of 5 reps at maximal power load).
• Neuromuscular performance was assessed using 1-repetition maximum, incremental load tests, RPA tests, and MPE tests before and after 4 and 8 weeks.

Main Results:

• Both MPE and RPA training significantly improved 1-repetition maximum and maximal power output.
• Both groups demonstrated significant enhancements in RPA test performance across all repetitions and time points.
• The MPE group showed significantly better intraset power fluctuation (fatigue resistance) compared to the RPA group at the 8-week posttest.

Conclusions:

• Both MPE and RPA training are effective for improving neuromuscular adaptations in highly trained athletes.
• MPE training appears to be a more volume-efficient strategy, requiring approximately 50% fewer repetitions to achieve comparable or superior improvements in fatigue resistance.