The effect of mace training on strength, flexibility, and stability in elite wrestlers: a randomized controlled trial

This study examined the impact of mace training on strength, flexibility, stabilization, and endurance in elite wrestlers, exploring its potential advantages over traditional resistance training. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 27 elite male wrestlers assigned to either a mace training group (n = 13) or a control group (n = 14). The experimental group performed mace exercises three times a week for 12 weeks, in addition to regular training. Pre- and post-training assessments included grip strength, shoulder flexibility, closed kinetic chain upper extremity stability (CKCUEST), push-up endurance, and proprioception assessed by shoulder joint position sense (JPS) testing using a digital inclinometer at 60° and 120°. Group × time interactions were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Mace training significantly improved grip strength (Dominant [D]: F = 28.009, p < 0.01, $$\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}$$=0.49; Non-dominant [ND]: F=12.864, p=0.01, $$\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}$$=0.31), shoulder flexibility (D: F =17.079, p<0.01, $$\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}$$=0.39), CKCUEST (F=48.495, p < 0.01, $$\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}$$=0.66), and push-up performance (F=16.290, p<0.01, $$\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}$$=0.40). However, proprioception at 60° and 120° showed no significant differences (p >0.05). Mace exercises effectively enhance grip strength, flexibility, and stabilization in elite wrestlers, making them a valuable tool for functional training. Future research should explore long-term effects and applications in other combat sports. Our study should not be considered a clinical trial because it does not involve any medical or therapeutic intervention on any health or biological outcome. The study aims to evaluate athletic performance parameters only. Therefore, it does not require registration in the international clinical trial registry system.