title: Using squat testing to predict training loads for lower-body exercises in elite karate athletes.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between squat loads and 2 bilateral and 2 unilateral stepping lower-body exercises in predominantly unilateral movement elite athletes (Karate). Equations to predict loads for lower-body exercises based on the squat load were also determined. Fourteen male elite Karate athletes (age = 22.6 ± 1.2 years) performed 6 repetition maximum (RM) of the following free-weight bilateral exercises: back half squat, deadlift, leg press and unilateral stepping exercises, lunge; and step-up. Results showed that 6RM squat load was significantly (p < 0.001) correlated with deadlift (r = 0.86), leg press (r = 0.76), lunge (r = 0.86), and step-up (r = 0.92). Linear regression showed that the 6RM squat load was a significant predictor for deadlift, leg press, lunge, and step-up (R2 range from 0.57 to 0.85, p < 0.001). The following 6RM prediction equations were determined: (a) Deadlift = squat load (1.12)-16.60 kg, (b) Leg press = squat load (1.66) + 16.10 kg, (c) Lunge = squat load (0.61) + 9.39 kg, and (d) step-up = squat load (0.85)-10.36 kg. Coaches and fitness professionals can use the 6RM squat load as a time effective and accurate method to predict training loads for both bilateral and unilateral lower-body exercises with quadriceps as the prime mover. Load prescriptions for unilateral exercises should take into account the type of athletic population.
authors.affiliation: Department of Health and Physical Education, The Hong Kong Institute of Education, Tai Po, Hong Kong. delwong@alumni.cuhk.net
authors.forename: Del P
authors.initials: del P
authors.lastname: Wong
authors.forename: Erik C H
authors.initials: EC
authors.lastname: Tan
authors.forename: Anis
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Chaouachi
authors.forename: Christopher
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Carling
authors.forename: Carlo
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Castagna
authors.forename: Jonathan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bloomfield
authors.forename: David G
authors.initials: DG
authors.lastname: Behm
mesh_terms: D056352:Athletes; D054874:Athletic Performance / Q000502:physiology; D005080:Exercise Test / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016139:Martial Arts / Q000502:physiology*; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology; D005082:Physical Exertion / Q000502:physiology; D010809:Physical Fitness / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult