The Effects of Different Strength Training Programs on Field Tests in Individuals Aged 18-20

This study examined the effects of different strength training programs applied over a 12-week period on various performance values in young individuals aged 18-20, as well as the performance values following a 1-month detraining period. The research involved 30 male volunteers studying at Selçuk University in Konya. After initial measurements, participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a control group (CG), a plyometric strength training group (PSTG), and a resistance band strength training group (RBSTG). The average ages were 18.70±0.67 years for CG, 18.70±0.67 years for PSTG, and 19.10±0.87 years for RBSTG. Heights were 178.76±7.38 cm for CG, 176.90±5.64 cm for PSTG, and 174.70±6.12 cm for RBSTG. Body weights were 71.40±8.82 kg (pre-test), 73.00±9.34 kg (post-test), and 74.00±9.15 kg (detraining test) for CG; 69.00±6.58 kg (pre-test), 70.00±6.56 kg (post-test), and 70.60±6.56 kg (detraining test) for PSTG; and 68.70±12.65 kg (pre-test), 69.30±11.55 kg (post-test), and 69.50±11.28 kg (detraining test) for RBSTG. The training groups performed the prescribed 8 training modalities 3 days per week for 12 weeks, with 10 repetitions and 4 sets each session. Following the training period, post-tests were conducted and the detraining period began. After a 1-month detraining period, detraining tests were conducted, and statistical analyses were performed. Results were analyzed using SPSS (IBM SPSS Statistics 26). Mean and standard deviations for all variables were calculated. Differences within groups for pre-test, post-test, and detraining test measurements were assessed using 'Repeated Measures ANOVA'. Differences between groups for each period (pre-test, post-test, and detraining test) were determined using 'One-Way ANOVA'. To identify which group contributed to the differences, the "Duncan" post-hoc test was applied. A significance level of P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Significant differences were observed within the plyometric training group for aerobic power testing (P<0.05). In speed tests, the control group showed negative changes, while the training groups showed supportive improvements (P<0.05). Reaction tests revealed significant changes within the training groups (P<0.05). Between-group comparisons showed that the plyometric training group had statistically significant results in post-tests (P<0.05). In agility testing, significant changes were observed within the training groups, with the resistance band training group showing statistically significant results post-tests (P<0.05). In conclusion, both plyometric and resistance band training programs appear to have positive effects on muscular performance and overall aerobic performance.