Effects of linear and undulating periodization of strength training in the acceleration of skater children

Abstract

This study aimed to compare the effects of linear periodization (LP) and undulating periodization (UP) of strength training on acceleration in skater children. Methods: Twenty-nine girls (9.67±1.29 years-old, 34.47±8.06kg, 1.39±0.13m) were distributed into two groups: linear periodization group (LPG, n=14) and undulating periodization group (UPG, n=15). Six levels of progressive training were designed based on activities such as multi-jumps, plyometrics, sled towing, and facilitated exercises. The training lasted 16 weeks, with a 1-h session on three nonconsecutive days per week. The acceleration was recorded by digital videography following the major trochanter of the femur, at four moments and under two conditions: static (SS) and dynamic start (DS) in a rectilinear path. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Results: ANOVA indicated group*moment interaction in SS and DS for velocity (F 3,81 =7.883; p<0.001; pη²=0.226; F 3,81 =2.36; p=0.078; pη²=0.08-trend, respectively) and acceleration (F 3,81 =3.96; p=0.011; pη²=0.128; F 3,81 =2.92; p=0.039; pη²=0.098, respectively). Both groups increased velocity in SS and DS (UPG/SS: 1 st =4.07, 2 nd =9.75, 3 rd =8.91, 4 th =9.25m/s; LPG/SS: 1 st =4.27, 2 nd =7.13, 3 rd =7.61, 4 th =7.99m/s; UPG/DS: 1 st =8.30, 2 nd =8.73, 3 rd =8.12, 4 th =9.27m/s; LPG/DS: 1 st =8.20, 2 nd =8.31, 3 rd =7.90, 4 th =8.96m/s) and acceleration (UPG/ SS: 1 st =2.00, 2 nd =8.69, 3 rd =4.71, 4 th =5.02m/s 2 ; LPG/SS: 1 st =2.37, 2 nd =3.39, 3 rd =3.68, 4 th =4.12m/s 2 ; UPG/DS: 1 st =1.78, 2 nd =1.97, 3 rd =1.65, 4 th =2.46m/s 2 ; LPG/DS: 1 st =1.67, 2 nd =1.70, 3 rd =1.48, 4 th =1.93m/s 2). Conclusion: Both strength training periodization protocols were effective in developing acceleration and velocity in girl skaters over 16 weeks; however, UP was more efficient than LP for improving acceleration.