Date of Award

5-2017

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Human Performance

Department

Kinesiology

First Advisor

Chad Kerksick

Second Advisor

Jonathan Mike

Third Advisor

Scott Richmond

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of weighted chains on muscular strength and power during a four-week bench press resistance-training program in recreationally trained college-aged men. The research addresses a gap in the literature regarding the effectiveness of chain-loaded resistance as a method to enhance upper body performance, particularly in the bench press. Thirty healthy males aged 18–40 with a minimum of two years of training experience were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a weighted-chains group (60% 1RM: 40% bar weight, 20% chain), a top-weight-matched group (60% 1RM with no chains), and a bottom-weight-matched group (40% 1RM with no chains). All participants completed a 3-day-per-week program over four weeks, totaling 12 training sessions. Pre- and post-intervention testing included 1-repetition maximum (1RM) assessments and power/velocity measurements using a TENDO unit.

Results indicated no statistically significant differences in 1RM, peak power, or peak velocity among the groups after the training period. However, a significant improvement was observed in average velocity in the weighted-chains group after two weeks, suggesting potential neuromuscular adaptations associated with accommodating resistance. The study supports the notion that while short-term use of chain-loaded resistance may not yield significant gains in maximal strength or power compared to traditional loading methods, it may offer advantages in movement velocity and training variability.

These findings contribute to strength and conditioning literature by offering insights into the nuanced effects of variable resistance training and its potential role in athletic training programs. The study recommends further research using longer training durations and larger sample sizes to fully explore the implications of weighted-chain resistance on performance outcomes.

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