Development of A Training And Injury Log For Powerlifting: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

Research on risk factors and injuries in powerlifting has so far only been studied through cross-sectional/observational studies. In other sports, training load has been prospectively investigated and shown to influence injury risk. However, no method to quantify training load in powerlifting exist. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of a novel standardized method for prospective recording of training load and injuries. The study was conducted in two phases with eight powerlifters initially included in each phase respectively. In Phase 1, the powerlifters registered training load and injuries throughout four weeks and answered a feasibility questionnaire. Based on the results from the questionnaire, updates to the training and injury log were made and the powerlifters in Phase 2 used the updated version to log four weeks of training. Training load and injuries were reported consistently which made calculations on training load and injury incidence possible. The participants reported rate of perceived exertion as difficult to assess and report. However, 9/12 powerlifters stated that they could the training and injury log for a period of at least six months. In conclusion, this standardized training and injury log seems to be a feasible method to quantify training load and injuries in powerlifting. The method could be used in further prospective studies on training load and injuries in powerlifting and in clinical practice.