Classification and Determination Model of Resistance Training Status

• Published in: Strength and conditioning journal 2021-10, Vol.43 (5), p.77-86
• Main Authors: Santos Junior, Evaldo Rui T., de Salles, Belmiro F., Dias, Ingrid, Ribeiro, Alex S., Simão, Roberto, Willardson, Jeffrey M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Classification; Strength training
• ISSN: 1524-1602; 1533-4295
• DOI: 10.1519/SSC.0000000000000627

An individual's training status is a key factor used to determine the volume, the intensity, and the selection of exercises for resistance training prescription. Interestingly, there are no objective parameters to assess training status, so there is ambiguity in determining the appropriate volume and other resistance training variables in this regard. Thus, the objective of this study was to propose a strategy for classification and determination of resistance training status. The following five parameters were identified and used: (a) current uninterrupted training time, (b) time of detraining, (c) previous training experience, (d) exercise technique, and (e) strength level. Moreover, 4 classification levels are proposed: beginner, intermediate, advanced, and highly advanced, which are determined by the mean score of the parameters used. The proposed model represents an important advancement in training status classification and can be used as a valid tool for training prescription and for researchers to better characterize a sample and reproduce results under the same conditions in future studies.