Abstract

Background: Muscle strength training offers the opportunity to effectively solve pedagogical problems caused by a variety of motor activities. Objective: Analyze the effects of a 32-week muscle strength program on students between 14 and 16 years old. Methods: Controlled, parallel and randomized trial with single blinding. The sample consisted of 40 schoolchildren aged 14 to 16 years belonging to secondary school No. 1 (Sokolovka, Russia). The schoolchildren were divided into a control group (n = 20) and an experimental group (n = 20); Both groups performed physical education lessons according to the school curriculum, however, the experimental group also performed muscle strength exercises. Strength level is determined with right- and left-hand dynamometry tests, arm flexion-extensions (bar and floor), and hanging leg raises. Results: The experimental group improved dynamometry of the right hand (21.9%; p < 0.05; d = 6.61) and left hand (14.7%; p < 0.05; d = 4.93). lifting of legs suspended from a bar (81.4%; p < 0.05; d = 9.09) flexion and extension of arms on the floor (5.8%; p < 0.05; d = 5.99) and on the bar (38.3%; p < 0.05), while the control group only significantly improved the dynamometry of the right hand (21.3%; p < 0.05) and the lifting of legs hanging from a bar (15.1%; p < 0.05; d = 5.76). Conclusion: A series of muscle strength exercises applied for 32 weeks in school physical education lessons can significantly improve muscle strength levels in children aged 14 to 16 years.