Graduation date: 1991

The present study attempted to investigate whether a combined weight and endurance training program can elicit more favorable changes in body composition than either method of training alone. Body composition parameters (absolute fat and fat-free weight) were evaluated using circumference measurements, skinfolds and hydrostatic weighing. Cardiorespiratory fitness was evaluated via a modified Harvard step-test. All tests were administered before and after 10 weeks of training. Exercises were performed 3 days/week for 40 minutes/day. Male volunteers (n=21) were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups (weight training only, endurance running only, combined weight training and endurance running).

Fourteen Ball State University softball players participated in this study to examine the effects of an amino acid supplement, Rebuild II TM, on strength and performance. Rebuild II TM contains high levels of BCAAs and glutamine. Two groups strength trained for ten weeks with the treatment group consuming Rebuild II TM, and the control group consuming a placebo. Subjects were pre and post-tested on the bench press, squat and machine shoulder press for strength, and performed a 90-foot sprint and a vertical jump for performance measures. LBW was calculated from the subjects body weight and percent fat. Pre and post measures were analyzed using a two way Anova variance with repeated measures test with a significant level set at p< 0.05. Both groups showed significant increases in strength and vertical jump performance, but only the Rebuild II TM group had a significant increase in LBW and decrease in percent fat. It was concluded that with a controlled weight training program, softball players will increase strength and vertical jump performance, and by adding an amino acid supplement to an athletes diet, there may be larger increases in LBW and decreases in percent fat while strength training. / School of Physical Education