Kettlebell Training Measured Across Power and Performance



Status:Enrolling by invitation
Healthy:No
Age Range:17 - 27
Updated:6/30/2016
Start Date:April 2016
End Date:November 2016

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Effects of a Regimented Kettlebell Training Program Across Measures of Power and Performance: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study is to investigate the performance benefits of supplementing Army
standard Physical Readiness Training (PRT) with a defined kettlebell (KB) deadlift and swing
training program as compared to standalone PRT. Power and performance will be measured on
horizontal (broad) and vertical jumps, 40 yard sprint, 60 yard shuttle, and the Army
Physical Fitness Test (APFT). It is hypothesized that the unique force distributions of
kettlebell training will promote improved power, particularly across the horizontal plane,
when compared to standalone Army PRT. Findings will potentially provide insight as to how
Army units can effectively utilize kettlebells to further diversify their training programs.

A sample of 140 subjects will be recruited from the remedial physical training population of
the Corps of Cadets. This will be achieved through regular communication with company level
Tactical Officers (TAC) and Physical Development Officers (PDO). Upon consent, unit
integrity will be maintained as the teams of Cadets will be randomized to either the Army
standard PRT group or the KB group. Once groups are assigned, PDO's will be provided with
their training calendars for the upcoming eight week period and a kettlebell
safety/familiarization session will be arranged for all units in the KB group.

Prior to the start of training, all subjects will undergo a pre-assessment on the following
performance measures: broad jump, vertical jump, 40 yard sprint and 60 yard shuttle. Current
APFT scores will be collected from the West Point Academy Management System (AMS). After the
assessment, those assigned to the PRT group will conduct training in accordance with Army
Field Manual 7-22 (sustainment phase activity). The KB group will conduct the same training
with the exception of kettlebell exercise in place of strength training circuits (this
occurs on alternating days). KB exercise will initially be instructed by the principal
investigator (certified kettlebell instructor through Crossfit®), but once independence with
exercise is noted, the principal investigator's role will become supervisory and continued
KB exercise will be executed under the leadership of unit PDO's. Upon conclusion of the
eight week training program, all subjects will undergo a post-assessment consisting of the
same measures noted previously. Follow on APFT scores will be collected either from West
Point AMS for graded tests or from the TACs/PDOs for diagnostic tests.

Once data collection is complete, analysis will be performed using SPSS version 19. A 2x2
mixed-model analysis of variance will be performed with application of Sidak's multiple
comparison test to determine if statistical significance has been reached.

Inclusion

- Male and Female Cadets

- Age 18-27

- Emancipated minor at age 17

- Remedial physical training participant

Exclusion

- Self-reported pregnancy

- Participants who are not fluent in English

- History of a musculoskeletal injury in the last month

- Any history of a spondylolisthesis

- History of an orthopedic surgery in the last six months

- Condition that results in surgery during the study,

- Missing >1 exercise session per week
We found this trial at
1
site
West Point, New York 10996
Principal Investigator: Brian E Stoltenberg, DPT
Phone: 845-938-3067
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mi
from
West Point, NY
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