Effects of Maximal Strength Training During the Competitive Season on Physical Fitness and Neuromuscular Performance in Adolescent Wrestlers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

During the competitive season, athletes often experience declines in neuromuscular performance due to the inconsistent implementation of maximal strength training. Although maximal strength training enhances athletic performance, its efficacy during the competitive season remains unclear, particularly in adolescent wrestlers. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of in-season maximal strength training on the physical fitness and neuromuscular performance of adolescent wrestlers. Thirty adolescent wrestlers were randomly assigned to either the maximal strength training group (MSTG) or control group (CG). Following five withdrawals, 25 participants (MSTG, n = 12; CG, n = 13) completed the study and were included in the final analysis. The MSTG performed a 50-min maximal strength training program once per week during the competitive season, while the CG maintained their regular training routine. Physical fitness variables (back strength, muscular endurance, power, agility, reaction time, and coordination) and neuromuscular performance (anaerobic power and isokinetic lumbar strength) were assessed pre- and post-intervention. Data were analyzed using a two-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Significant group × time interaction effects were observed for back strength (p = 0.036), standing long jump (p = 0.016), side-step (p < 0.01), lumbar extensor strength at 60°/s (p = 0.037), and average power (p < 0.001). Lumbar extensor strength increased in the MSTG, whereas average power was maintained compared with a decline in the CG. No significant interaction effects were observed for the other variables. These findings suggest that competitive-season maximal strength training may improve selected physical fitness outcomes and help maintain selected neuromuscular performance outcomes in adolescent wrestlers.