The comparison of the effect of double and flat pyramid training methods on hypertrophy and muscular strength of male power-lifters

Abstract

Background and Study Aim. Resistance training is considered as the most effective method to increase muscle strength and mass. The present study aimed to compare the effect of a double pyramid and a flat pyramid training methods on hypertrophy and muscular strength of male power-lifters.
 Material and Methods. Thirty students (age 21.40±1.71 years) were randomly assigned to three groups of double pyramid training (10 subjects), flat pyramid training (10 subjects), and the control trained by the traditional method (10 subjects). The experimental groups were trained three sessions a week for eight weeks whereas the control group continued their ordinary training program in the traditional method two sessions a week. Before and after the training, the muscular strength index was measured by bench press, leg press, and deadlift and the muscle volume was determined in their chest, arm, and thigh. Data were statistically examined by the analysis of variance and paired t test in the SPSS (ver. 21) software package. The significance level was set at the P<0.05 level.
 Results. Significant differences were observed among the studied groups in the variables of bench press, leg press, and deadlift, as well as in the variables of arm volume, chest volume, and thigh volume (P < 0.05). Bench press, leg press, deadlift, and the volume of arm, chest, and thigh were increased significantly from the pretest to the posttest in all three groups (P < 0.001).
 Conclusion. A double and flat pyramid training period has similar positive impacts on muscular strength and volume of power-lifters.