Factors Affecting Muscular Strength Testing Accuracy and Its Effect on Resistance Training

M. Saravanan, Vimal Wei-Shin (2021) Factors Affecting Muscular Strength Testing Accuracy and Its Effect on Resistance Training. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University College.

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Abstract

Accurate prescription of training intensity is important in optimizing training adaptations whether it is muscle strength or muscle hypertrophy. Accurate prescription can only be carried out when the results from exercise testing reflects the true capabilities of the lifter. The purpose of this paper was to conduct a systematic review of studies that investigated the factors that can influence the accuracy of muscular strength tests, that are often used to prescribed resistance training intensity, as well as looking at the overall resistance training guidelines for muscular strength and hypertrophy. Following a systematic search of Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed databases, a total of 24 studies were deemed to meet inclusion criteria. Results showed factors such as lifter’s experience in resistance training, involvement of supervision, and the ability of the lifter to push to failure in has a significant effect in determining the results of any given strength test. Moreover, high loading is favourable in improving muscular strength compared to lower loads while low loads as low as 30% of 1RM to high loads can improve muscle hypertrophy, indicating that a larger range of loads is applicable for improving muscle hypertrophy. In conclusion, the literature indicates that there are factors needed to be taken into consideration in strength tests in order to prescribe accurate individualized training intensity based on resistance training recommendations.