Improvement of strength abilities of weightlifters aged 17–18 by means of crossfit

Abstract

Topicality. Modern requirements for the preparation of weightlifters dictate the necessity of ensuring not only the maximal indicator of a one-time effort (maximal strength), but also optimization of speed-strength qualities, power, coordination of complex motor patterns, and maximal strength. CrossFit, as a training paradigm, combines elements of functional strength, Olympic lifts, metabolic intensity, and gymnastic exercises, which can potentially expand the adaptive possibilities of traditional weightlifting. At the same time, the integration of CrossFit means into the training system raises scientific interest regarding their effectiveness and the specificity of their influence on the development of strength preparedness of weightlifters.

The purpose of the study is the improvement of strength abilities of weightlifters aged 17–18 by means of CrossFit. Materials and methods. The pedagogical experiment was conducted among 20 weightlifters aged 17–18 who were at the stage of specialized basic training. The participants were divided into two groups - control (CG) and experimental (EG), 10 athletes in each. Both groups trained according to the current training programs for Specialized School of Olympic Reserve, and Schools of Higher Sports Mastery in weightlifting. At the same time, the athletes of the experimental group additionally performed an author’s CrossFit-oriented program integrated into the training process four times a week for three months.

Research results. At the end of the experiment, in the exercise “snatch with a power squat,” the results in the EG improved by 27,56 % (р<0,001). In the exercise “clean with a power squat”, the increase amounted to 31,29 % (р<0,001). The indicators in the exercise “clean” increased by 14,20 % (р<0,001), and in the jerk from racks – by 14,29 % (р<0,001). In the front squat exercise, an increase of 28,05 % (р<0,001) was recorded, and in the “back squat” exercise - 29,05 % (р<0,001). The obtained results indicate a significant increase in the level of special strength preparedness of weightlifters, which demonstrates the high effectiveness of the proposed training program and its orientation toward the development of key muscle groups necessary for competitive weightlifting exercises.

Conclusions. The results of special physical preparedness showed that the implemented CrossFit as part of the experimental program significantly improved the indicators of all control exercises. The largest increases were observed in exercises with a power squat and in squats, which indicates effective development of explosive strength and strength capabilities of the lower limbs. In the control group, the improvements were minimal and, in most cases, statistically insignificant.