Determining Strength: A Case for Multiple Methods of Measurement

Sports Med. 2017 Feb;47(2):193-195. doi: 10.1007/s40279-016-0580-3.

Abstract

Muscle strength is often measured through the performance of a one-repetition maximum (1RM). However, we that feel a true measurement of 'strength' remains elusive. For example, low-load alternatives to traditional resistance training result in muscle hypertrophic changes similar to those resulting from traditional high-load resistance training, with less robust changes observed with maximal strength measured by the 1RM. However, when strength is measured using a test to which both groups are 'naive', differences in strength become less apparent. We suggest that the 1RM is a specific skill, which will improve most when training incorporates its practice or when a lift is completed at a near-maximal load. Thus, if we only recognize increases in the 1RM as indicative of strength, we will overlook many effective and diverse alternatives to traditional high-load resistance training. We wish to suggest that multiple measurements of strength assessment be utilized in order to capture a more complete picture of the adaptation to resistance training.

MeSH terms

  • Acclimatization
  • Adaptation, Physiological
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology*
  • Resistance Training*