RELIABILITY OF SPECIFIC TESTS OF STRENGTH OF SPORTS ARM WRESTLING

Abstract

The goal of the present study was to explore the reliability of a specific strength test of sports arm wrestling. The Maximal muscle force (Fmax) and maximal Rate of the muscle force development (RFDmax) for the right and left arm in a specific arm wrestling supinated and neutral position were analyzed. The sample of variables included the following two variables: Maximal voluntary force (F max ) and maximal voluntary explosive force, i.e., maximal Rate of force development (RFD max ), measured at the left (L) and right (R) arm (musculus Biceps Brachii), for both sports-specific positions – supination, and the neutral position. The Single variable Inter-test reliability was determined using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach's Alpha based on standardized items. The statistical significance level was determined on the criterion of p ≤ 0.05. Very high reliability (ICC = 0.916-0.971) exists for maximum muscle force variables, measured for the left and right arm with supinatorial and neutral hand positions. Moderate and high reliability (ICC = 0.681-0.892) was found for explosive muscle force variables, measured with the left and right hand in supinatorial and neutral hand positions. Generally, the highest values of muscle maximal and explosive force were achieved during the first test attempt. By looking at this information, coaches and athletes, may reliably use this specific AW test to create a clearer picture of the athlete's current physical readiness and for making appropriate decisions to guide the training process.