Linear and Nonlinear Analysis of the Traditional and Differential Strength Training

Abstract

Training methods are commonly studied using lineal and quantitative research, limiting the possibilities to proof new
ways of optimizing the training process. The aim of the study was to compare the classical strength training appro-
ach, based on repetitions, with differential training for the improvement of diffi culty elements in aerobic gymnastics
applying a linear and a nonlinear tool for analyzing the interaction between load and performance.
Two female national standard aerobic gymnasts followed three periods of training (TTa: 5 weeks of traditional
training; DT: 8 weeks of differential training; TTb: 5 weeks of traditional training). Load applied to the gymnasts
was expressed quantitatively (quantitative load) with an equation including time of execution (t), number of series
(N), number of exercises in each series (Rp) and relative intensity, and qualitatively (qualitative load) defi ning the
number of different exercises performed. Performance was defi ned through 6 tests based on the execution of three
different push-ups. Quantitative and qualitative load, the time of execution of the push ups and the time of fl ight of
the jumps were determined weekly during the 17 weeks. The interaction between the load applied to upper limbs and
performance of push ups, and the interaction between the load applied to lower limbs and performance of jumps were
analyzed using a non-linear metamodel (PerPot) and cross correlations.
Push ups results show that the increase in load quantifi ed qualitatively correlates more positively with the increase in
performance than with the increase in load measured quantitatively. This suggests that subjects respond better to an
increase in the variation of training stimulus than to an increase in the number of repetitions. Nevertheless, PerPot
proposes a reduction in the number of varied exercises in the DT period. Regarding jumping tests, the performance
of both subjects remained constant, suggesting that four months of training was not enough to improve the time of
fl ight in experienced gymnasts, or the training methods were not the most adequate.
This study suggests that (1) differential training seems to lead to a greater increase in performance than traditional
training, but (2) the same results could be achieved by reducing the number of varied exercises or combining both
approaches.

Keywords: non-linear metamodel, qualitative load, performance.