Degree Name
MS (Master of Science)
Program
Sports Science and Coach Education
Date of Award
5-2022
Committee Chair or Co-Chairs
Kevin Carroll
Committee Members
Michael Stone, Margaret Stone
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare differences in maximal strength, perceived recovery and stress state, and body composition alterations in powerlifters undergoing a 2-day or 4-day period of training cessation following a step taper. Ten participants completed a 6-week powerlifting specific training protocol. Body composition, perceived recovery and stress state, and maximal strength in the back squat (BS), bench press (BP), and deadlift (DL) were assessed prior to the overreach week (week 5) and either 2-days or 4-days after the taper. Alpha criterion was set at p≤0.05. There were statistically significant increases in BP (pp=0.03) following the 2-day protocol. Following the 4-day protocol, there were statistically significant increases in DL (p=0.03) and statistically significant decreases in BP (p=0.04). The results of this study support the use of shorter periods of training cessation (i.e., two days) following a step taper to improve maximal strength performance.
Document Type
Thesis - embargo
Recommended Citation
Burke, Benjamin, "2-day vs. 4-day Training Cessation Following a Step Taper in Competitive and Recreational Powerlifters" (2022). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. Paper 4064. https://dc.etsu.edu/etd/4064
Copyright
Copyright by the authors.