Boosting Strength and Awareness: Effects of Resistance Training on Adolescents’ Perceptions and Progress. A Pilot study

Purpose: The aim of the study is to explore the connection between the impact of the physical effects of a training protocol for the development of resistance strength on adolescents' perceptions, opinions and awareness. Methods: A sample of 12 subjects aged 10-12 years, all male, took part in the present study. The procedure is the administration of the Broad Jump Test before and after the strength versus endurance development training protocol, with subsequent administration of a questionnaire consisting of 2 items: the first on perceptions and opinions, the second on awareness. To analyse the data, the student’s t-test for dependent samples, descriptive statistics, the Chi Square Test (X2) and Pearson's correlation were used. Results: 9.86% increase in strength was observed (P= .0016). Regarding perceptions, 66.7% of participants felt more energized after the training, correlating with greater awareness of their abilities and progress (P= .028). Additionally, 83.3% found the protocol stimulating, linked to improved recognition of bodily responses (P= .020). Among those who felt fit (91.7%), a deeper understanding of body responses emerged (P< .001). Lastly, 83.3% who noted increased energy showed heightened sensitivity to action outcomes (P= .028). Conclusions: The results suggest a close connection between strength development and the positive impact on individual perceptions and awareness, indicating that resistance training protocols not only promote physical adaptations, but also foster awareness of the connections between improvement and benefit.