Profile of Muscular Strength, Endurance, and Movement Patterns in Recreational Individuals Performing Targeted Strength Training

This study aimed to assess muscular strength, endurance, and movement pattern quality in adults engaged in recreational, targeted strength training compared to physically active individuals without a specific strength focus. A total of 60 participants were included: 34 in the experimental group (17 men, 17 women) and 26 in the control group (13 men, 13 women). All subjects completed the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) to evaluate movement quality. Muscular strength and endurance were assessed using four tests based on ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (11th ed.): Handgrip Strength, Bench Press Ratio, Leg Press Ratio, and Push-Up Test. In the strength-training group, 79.4% scored ≥18 on the FMS (vs 61.5% in controls), with no scores < 14 (vs 3.8%). In the Handgrip Test, 63% scored at or above the 50th percentile (vs 58%). The experimental group more often achieved “Good” or higher classifications in the bench press and push-up tests. Notably, 45% scored “Very Good” or “Excellent” in push-ups (vs 19% in controls). Findings suggest that regular, targeted strength training contributes to higher levels of muscular strength, endurance, and movement quality, potentially reducing injury risk and enhancing functional performance.