August 2017; Vol. 6, No. 2: Pages 47-51
The 'Slingshot' can enhance volume-loads during performance of bench press using unaided maximal loads
Jordan Niblock, James SteeleAbstract
Objective: To examine whether using the Slingshot will enable participants to perform a greater volume-load during bench press repetitions with a maximal load and increase set volume-load compared to an unaided condition. Summary of Background Data: Literature suggests that increased volume-loads during training may aid in improving strength, and further maximises mechanical tension and metabolic stress potentially leading to increased hypertrophy. It has been suggested that a new piece of equipment, called the Slingshot could be used in training to improve performance in the bench press by enabling individuals to increase their training volume whilst using maximal loads. Method: Nine trained male participants volunteered to participate. Each participant performed a bench press one repetition maximum (1RM) test before completing repetitions to momentary failure using the Slingshot one week later. Volume-load for each condition was calculated as repetitions (n) x load (kg). Results: A paired samples t-Test comparing between conditions revealed a significant difference (p < 0.001) between volume loads performed unaided (96.1±14.6 kg) and with the Slingshot (350±103.7 kg). Conclusion: Using the slingshot in training does allow individuals to perform greater volume-loads with a maximal load; however longitudinal research must be conducted to ascertain the magnitude of any potential benefit from using it.
Received March 19, 2017; accepted August 21, 2017