PROGRAMMED STRENGTH TRAINING USING A COMPUTERIZED ISOTONIC STAND

Abstract

One of the very important tasks of the theory and practice of modern training is searching for new methods, in order to improve the efficiency of the training process. Nowadays muscle strength seems to be the most significant factor which influences performance in different kinds of sport. On the other hand development of the strength level is particularly difficult among highperformance athletes. The aim of this paper is to present computer-controlled strength training using a special stand for museie strength training and diagnostics. The stand consists of three main sub-assembles: -mechanical part (steel bedplate, bar with replaceable holders, bench for exercises). -hydraulic resistance module, -efectronic part (valve controller, AlC converter, PC 486/100). A special computer program allows force stabilization in the full range of motion (isotonic resistance) and registration of the basic parameters of movement. The computer-controlled training program includes three basic strength training methods: -repetition (50-80% RM, 4-8 series, 1020 reps); -maximal efforts (90-100% RM, 1-5 series, 1-3 reps); -speed-strength (40-45% RM, 4-8 series, 8-12 reps). Besides these methods the user could exercise according to his (or her) individual program. There are four main indices describing training loads, which can be controlled: resistance, number of series, number of reps and rest periods. Various popular exercises as: bench press, seated press, squats, both-or one-hand pulls, biceps curl. bent over row, etc. can be performed on the stand. The computer program enables registration of the force and displacement of the bar and on this base calculation maximal and mean values of several important parameters of the workout: mechanical power, velocity of the bar, work per rep(s). set(s) and unit(s). The initial resistance is established during the special trials, assessing the speedstrength abilities of the user, and changes of training loads are accomplished automatically, according to achieved results in these trials. The computer-controlled strength training performed on the isotonic stand is designed for both, beginners and highperformance athletes. The equipment can be used under field or laboratory conditions, because it is very safe, not noisy and not too large. REFERENCES Ariel G., Penny M., Saar D.. Selinger A. (1990): Computer-controlled strength training program for the U.S. National Women's Volleyball Team. COTO Research Center. Abstract form. Eliasz J. (1993): Trening sity mi~sniowej w pilee r~cznej (Strength training in handball) Sport Wyczynowy 9/10:21-28. Kannus P. (1994): Isokinetic evaluation of muscular performance: Implications for museie testing and rehabilitation. Int. Journal of Sports Medicine 15. Suppt. 1:S11-18. Kemp M. (1989): Strength training principles. Modem Athlete and Coach 27:11-12. Pauletto B. (1991): Strength training for coaches. Human Kinetics. Champaign IL. Zatsiorsky V.M. (1995): Science and Practice of Strength Training. Human Kinetics. Champaign IL.