Sex Differences in Bench Press Strength and Power: A Velocity-Based Analysis Adjusted for Body Composition

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Human Kinetics

Background:

• Resistance training (RT) enhances muscle hypertrophy and strength in both sexes.
• Sex differences in neuromuscular factors and hormones influence strength and power adaptations.
• Understanding sex-specific profiles is crucial for optimizing training strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare strength and power performance in physically active males and females during the bench press.
• To analyze performance relative to body mass and fat-free mass (FFM).
• To investigate sex differences across various load intensities.

Main Methods:

• 29 physically active individuals (16 men, 13 women) performed 1RM and incremental velocity-based assessments (45-85% 1RM).
• Barbell velocity was measured using a linear transducer to record mean propulsive velocity (MPV).
• Power variables (F0, V0, Pmax) were analyzed, with data adjusted for body mass and FFM.

Main Results:

• Men showed significantly greater strength and power than women, especially when normalized to FFM (45-75% 1RM).
• Sex differences in MPV disappeared at 85% 1RM, indicating similar neuromuscular recruitment at high intensities.
• Men had higher values in six of seven power variables; optimal power output %1RM was similar between sexes.

Conclusions:

• Men possess greater strength and power than women, even after body composition adjustment.
• High relative loads (≥85% 1RM) minimize sex differences in movement velocity, likely due to similar motor unit recruitment.
• Results emphasize the need for sex-specific resistance training, load prescription, and velocity-based training.