An Examination of Strength Training Practices in a Sample of Varsity High School Athletic Programs in Idaho

The following individuals read and discussed the thesis submitted by student Monica Lynn Reynolds, and they evaluated her presentation and response to questions during the final oral examination. They found that the student passed the final oral examination. for their support, commitment, and guidance through the thesis process. Particular thanks to Dr. Ransdell for helping me take an idea and turn it into a successful thesis. I would also like to thank both Dr. Lucas and Dr. Ransdell for their wonderful insights and added knowledge which significantly contributed to the quality of this thesis. Finally, I would like to thank the coaches who commit more time than they are paid for to help develop young athletes into outstanding competitors and successful human beings. I have admiration for all of the individuals who are trying to better the athletic experience of high school athletes. The use of strength training, or resistance training to improve athletic performance, is growing among athletes of all ages. Currently, Idaho possesses no rules, regulations, and/or guidance for varsity high school athletics and strength training. PURPOSE: The purpose of this research was to explore the current practices for varsity level high school athletes and strength training. Specifically, examined were: who designs and implements strength training programs for varsity high school athletes, what kinds of training activities they do for their programs, and whether the responsible party or emphasis of strength training changes depending on the gender of the athletes. METHODS: Coaches of soccer, basketball, and softball/baseball in three Idaho school districts were asked to complete an online survey. RESULTS: Seventy percent (34/48) of the coaches who were eligible to participate responded to the questionnaire. Approximately half (51.6%) of the respondents coached male athletes and 45.2% coached female athletes. The majority of coaches provided strength training opportunities for their athletes (84.3%), although only 37% required participation. The majority of strength training programs were designed and implemented by either the physical education teachers (40.7%) or head coaches (25.9%). Physical education teachers designed and implemented the majority of the strength training programs for female athletes, whereas, head coaches designed and implemented the majority of strength training programs for male athletes. Coaches of both male and female athletes provided equal opportunities for strength training for their athletes, but coaches of male athletes were more likely to require their athletes to participate. Most programs included dynamic warm-ups and cool-downs, plyometrics, agility training, …