Modeling Fitness Variable Responses to Training in Prepubescent Children

J Strength Cond Res. 2020 Aug;34(8):2352-2359. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000002201.

Abstract

Alves, AR, Marta, C, Neiva, HP, Nunes, C, Izquierdo, M, and Marques, MC. Modeling fitness variable responses to training in prepubescent children. J Strength Cond Res 34(8): 2352-2359, 2020-The aim of this study was to determine strength and oxygen uptake (V[Combining Dot Above]O2max) performances according to different training program intervention design with 8-week duration in prepubescent children through a multiple linear regression models. Two hundred forty-five healthy prepubescent children (aged 10.9 ± 0.5 years) were randomly assigned to a specific training program (strength training only-S; aerobic training only-A; intrasession aerobic and strength training-AS; intrasession strength and aerobic training-SA; or concurrent training performed in different sessions-CT) or a control group (no training regimen-C). It was possible to develop indirect predictive models for each training method, by including each variable pretraining, body fat percentage and body mass index. The models provided explained 82% of variance in the V[Combining Dot Above]O2max, 98% in the 1 kg ball-throw, 96% in the 3 kg ball-throw, 92% in the countermovement jump, 93% in the standing long jump and 98% in the 20 m sprint performances. This novel approach to training evaluation and control aims to provide a tool to allow professionals to calculate changes with a high confidence level (CI 95%), to control gains and to choose the best training methodology to apply according to the defined purposes. The results of this study could be a great support to teachers, coaches, and professionals providing important tools to improve the efficacy and individualization of training.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue
  • Body Mass Index
  • Child
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle Strength / physiology*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology*
  • Oxygen Consumption / physiology*
  • Physical Fitness / physiology*