Effects of flywheel resistance training using horizontal vs vertical exercises

Abstract

Flywheel resistance training is a very useful method to optimize athletic performance. However, research assessing the different loading conditions hypothesis during flywheel resistance training is scarce. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of the loading conditions used during flywheel resistance exercise on improvements in athletic performance. Twenty nine (29) athletes were randomly assigned to three different flywheel resistance training groups: vertical-directed exercises (VR), horizontal-directed exercises (HR) and a mixed group (MIX). Performance assessment included one repetition maximum (1-RM) in the half-squat exercise, countermovement jump (CMJ) performance and change of direction (COD) ability (5-0-5 agility test). For the 1-RM squat, significant improvements were found in the VR ( p = 0.011) and MIX groups ( p = 0.015). All groups showed significant increases in CMJ height ( p < 0.05), and significant decreases in 5-0-5 time with the non-dominant leg ( p < 0.05). As regards 5-0-5 with the dominant leg, the VR ( p = 0.004) and MIX groups ( p = 0.001) showed significant decreases in 5-0-5 time. Non-significant group × time interactions were noted. In conclusion, all groups showed similar improvements in 1-RM squat, jumping and COD performance. However, the inclusion of vertical-directed exercises seems to optimize increases in 1-RM squat.