The Effects of Different Strength Training Methods on Muscle Strength and Explosive Power Performance in Combat Sports Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Feng W, Xiao J, Liu Y, Meng F. · Research Square · 2026
Abstract
Background: Strength training is a core
Method: for combat sports athletes to enhance their competitive performance, but there remains controversy regarding the promotional effects of different training
Methods: on strength and explosive power.
Objective: This study systematically compares the effects of different strength training
methods on muscle strength and explosive power performance in combat sports athletes, providing a basis for formulating scientific physical training programs.
methods on muscle strength and explosive power performance in combat sports athletes, providing a basis for formulating scientific physical training programs. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, searching PubMed, Web of Science, Wiley, and Google Scholar databases with a total of 28 randomized controlled trials included (n = 631). Standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using RevMan 5.4 software, along with subgroup analyses and assessments of publication bias. The quality of included studies was evaluated using the PEDro scale (Physiotherapy Evidence Database Scale), with a total score of 10; the overall quality was moderate to high.
Results: Strength training significantly improved upper limb strength (SMD = 0.59，95%CI= 0.10~1.09，p = 0.02) , lower limb strength (SMD = 0.44，95%CI= 0.23~0.65，p , upper limb explosive power (SMD = 1.01，95%CI= 0.36~1.67，p = 0.002) , and lower limb explosive power (SMD = 0.36，95%CI= 0.18~0.55，p in combat sports athletes. Subgroup analysis showed that ground-based combat sports (SMD = 0.52，95%CI= 0.22~0.82，p had more significant effects on strength improvement, while stand-up combat sports (SMD = 0.62，95%CI= 0.29~0.95，p =0.0002) demonstrated greater advantages in explosive power enhancement. Comparisons of different training
methods indicated that compound training （SMD=0.79） was the most effective for improving muscle strength, while core strength training （SMD=1.27） was the most significant for enhancing explosive power.
Conclusion: Different strength training
methods can significantly improve muscle strength and explosive power in combat sports athletes. Subgroup analysis revealed that ground-based combat sports had more pronounced effects on strength enhancement, whereas stand-up combat sports showed superior advantages in explosive power improvement. Overall, compound training and core strength training represent the optimal choices for elevating strength and explosive power, respectively, providing scientific evidence for the development of physical training prescriptions in combat sports.