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Relation Between Anaerobic Power and Competitive Performance in Paralympic Powerlifting Athletes: A Cross-Sectional
Carolina Oliveira de Carvalho1, Felipe J Aidar2, Vanessa Carla Monteiro Pinto3
1Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal 59078-900, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil.
Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology
|July 24, 2026
Summary
Elite Paralympic powerlifters
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Paralympic powerlifting demands rapid upper-limb force.
- Anaerobic power is a key physiological factor for performance.
- Understanding biodynamic predictors is crucial for training optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between biodynamic variables and competitive success in Paralympic powerlifters.
- To identify physiological markers associated with performance outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study with 13 elite Paralympic powerlifters.
- Assessed body composition (DXA), isometric strength (handgrip), dynamic strength (medicine ball throw), and anaerobic power (upper-limb Wingate test).
- Competitive performance data sourced from the Brazilian Paralympic Powerlifting Championship rankings.
Main Results:
- Strong negative correlations found between anaerobic power metrics (mean, peak, relative) and competitive performance (p < 0.004).
- Total lean mass and left-hand grip strength were significantly associated with maximum lift in regression analyses.
- Higher anaerobic power and specific strength indicators correlate with better performance outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Upper-limb anaerobic power is a significant predictor of competitive performance in Paralympic powerlifting.
- Lean mass and isometric strength also play a role in maximum lift capacity.
- Training programs should incorporate assessments and interventions targeting power, strength, and body composition.
