Abstract

The influence of training frequency (2 vs. 3 sessions per week) on strength improvements in young adult males (N = 152) was observed in six weight training courses. Isotonic strength was assessed by the one repetition maximum (1-RM) for the bench press, sitting press, leg press and biceps curl at the beginning, middle and end of 14 weeks of training. The final adjusted means (ANOCV), absolute and percentage gains all favored the higher frequency of training. While significant differences existed between groups on two of the four test items, the overall mean differences between the two training frequencies in terms of absolute and percentage gains were only 5.2 pounds and 2.7 , respectively. It was concluded that both frequencies produce significant changes in strength, however differences in improvement resulting from 14weeks of training are relatively small. Procedures for facilitating the assessment of initial strength values (1-RM) are outlined. In addition, normative data (both absolute and relative) are categorized by body weight for initial strength levels in the bench press, sitting press, leg press, and biceps curl. Verf.-Referat