Visich, P., Thompson, B., & Gordon, P. (2003). Gender differences in strength gain following a resistance training program in the upper arm. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35(5), Supplement abstract 1620.

Gender strength differences in training the non-dominant arm were assessed. Ss (M = 85; F = 132) trained only the non-dominant arm for 12 weeks using five exercises that employed the biceps and triceps muscle groups. Biceps strength (1 RM) was measured in the trained non-dominant and non-trained dominant arm.

Females improved 34% (non-dominant) and 11% (dominant arm) while males improved only in the non-dominant arm (27%). Females increased upper arm circumference 5% and males increased 7%. No differences in non-trained dominant arm circumference were observed.

Implication. Strength gains differed between the arms of the gender groups. However, physical changes did not reflect the strength changes. This suggests that neurological changes are important in the initial phases of strength training programs.

Return to Table of Contents for this issue.