Modeling fitness variable responses to training in prepubescent children

Abstract

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.