Maximum Strength and Strength Training— A Relationship to Endurance?

M ost coaches and athletes would argue that endurance is a factor that can affect sports performance. However, definitions of endurance vary from sport to sport. For this discussion, endurance is defined as the ability to maintain or repeat a given force or power output. Although explaining the performance–strength relationship in sports is a multi-factorial concept, evidence indicates that maximum strength is likely a key component (37, 39, 52). The purpose of this discussion is to consider briefly the association of measures of maximum strength and the effects of strength training in relation to shortand long-duration endurance and endurance-related factors. Particular attention was given to sports performance related-endurance factors. Evidence from different types of reviewed crosssectional and longitudinal research was considered; in conceptual areas for which few reviewed publications could be found, theses, abstracts, and observational information were considered in conjunction with reviewed articles. Semi-isokinetic device research was not extensively reviewed for two reasons: first, questions have been raised as to the external validity of these devices and second, coaches and athletes do not typs u m m a r y