Resistance training has been shown to improve a variety of performance and health-related variables. Improvements in performance can include increased muscular strength, power and high-intensity exercise. Programs incorporating strength training as an integral part of physical conditioning have also been shown to improve performance in ergonomic tasks that reflect functional strength gains in daily tasks, such as lifting weighted boxes to different heights (Asfour et al., 1984; Genaidy et al., 1994). Physiological and physical changes can include improved cardiovascular parameters, beneficial hormone and cholesterol adaptations, increased lean body mass and decreased fat, increased tissue tensile strength (including bone), and decreased physiological stress as a result of resistance training (Conroy et al., 1993; Johnson et al., 1982; Johnson, 1983; McMillan et al., 1993; Poehlman et al., 1992; Stone et al., 1991; Stone et al., 1983). Choosing an appropriate training method (reps and sets, periodization, etc.) can make a considerable difference in the outcome of a resistance training program. For example: high volume programs have a greater influence on body composition and endurance factors compared to low volume programs (Fleck and Kraemer, 1987; Garhammer, 1987; Harris et al., 1998; Stone and O'Bryant, 1987). It is also probable that the choice of training mode (type of equipment) can influence the adaptations to a training program.
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