Fontonura, A. S., Schneider, P., & Meyer, F. (2003). The effect of detraining from strength training on prepubescent boys. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35(5), Supplement abstract 2062.

Prepubescent boys (N = 7) trained on eight machine exercises that included leg extension and elbow flexion. Training was 3 sets of 15 repetitions, three times per week for 12 weeks. A no-training control group (N = 7) was measured. Both groups were measured at the end of a further 12 weeks of detraining.

The trained group increased in strength after training. After 12 weeks of detraining, only the legs decreased significantly. The control group did not change in strength in the first 12 weeks but did increase in both leg extension (41%) and elbow flexion (53%) exercises after 24 weeks.

Implication. Growth contributes to strength development in prepubescent boys. While resistance training does increase strength at an accelerated rate, when detraining occurs there is likely to be a return to the growth curve increases.

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