Differences in Rate of Force Development, Muscle Morphology and Maximum Strength between Weightlifters and Track and Field Throwers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between weightlifters and track and field throwers in terms of the rate of force development (RFD), lean mass, muscle architecture and one-repetition maximum (1-RM) muscle strength. Sixteen elite male athletes (eight weightlifters and eight track and field throwers) participated in the study. Measurements were performed one week after the annual national championships and included anthropometry, body composition analysis (dual X-ray absorptiometry), vastus lateralis (VL) muscle architecture (ultrasonography), countermovement jump (CMJ), leg press isometric RFD and 1-RM strength in snatch and back squat. RFD was similar between groups (p > 0.05), although RFD relative to lean mass was higher for weightlifters (p < 0.05). Throwers had a higher trunk lean mass compared to weightlifters (p = 0.007). Weightlifters had a longer VL fascicle length compared to throwers (p = 0.037). Performances in CMJ height, CMJ power relative to body mass and 1-RM strength were higher for the weightlifters (p < 0.05). Lean body mass index was correlated with back squat (r = 0.667) and snatch (r = 0.498). VL fascicle length was significantly correlated with snatch (r = 0.631) and back squat (r = 0.718). These results suggest that weightlifters may produce greater power outputs and 1-RM strength than track and field throwers, which may be associated with longer VL fascicle length.