Effects of parallel squat training and 45 degree angle leg press training on absolute strength and relative power acquisition

This study compared the effects of parallel squat (PS) training and 45 degree angle leg press (LP) training on the acquisition of absolute strength (AS) and relative power (RP). Thirty male subjects (19-24 yr.) volunteered with 20 completing the ten week program. The subjects from three basic weight training classes were assigned to two groups (N = 10 PS, N = 10 LP). Subjects trained two times per week for ten weeks. All subjects performed each strength and power pre- and post-test. The pretest was performed before the onset of training; the post-test was administered the week following the conclusion of each respective training program. Test battery consisted of the vertical jump (VJ), Margaria-Kalamen (MK) power test, one-repetition-maximum (1RM) PS, and 1RM LP. Comparisons were made using a two factor Analysis of Variance ANOVA with repeated measures on one factor. When significance was found a Scheffe' post hoc test was performed. Statistical analysis revealed significant (p < .05) differences for AS as measured by 1RM tests for PS and LP training. Significance (p < .05) occurred for RP as measured by MK test for PS training. Neither group showed significant difference in RP as measured by the VJ. It was concluded that the training programs used produced significant improvement in AS for both experimental (PS & LP) groups, but only PS training produced significant improvement in RP as measured by the MK test.