Development of a Resistance Training Curriculum for School-Based Implementation: Adaptation of the Athletic Motor Skill Competencies Curriculum

Strength and conditioning journal, vol. 48, pp. 264–280

Abstract

ABSTRACT Resistance training is a key training modality that effectively enhances health, fitness, and performance in diverse populations, including youth. Resistance training involves various resistive loads and is a versatile method of conditioning that can be tailored to meet diverse individual needs and goals. This article aims to provide an overview of the implementation of resistance training programs in schools, emphasizing their importance for enhancing youth health, fitness, and sports performance. An essential facilitator to the delivery of resistance training programs is providing teachers with the necessary resources and professional development to support program implementation—even in schools with limited equipment. Provided within this manuscript is an insight into a successful school-based resistance training intervention, the Resistance Training for Teens (RT4T) program, which has shown positive outcomes in students' fitness, skill competency, and self-efficacy. A well-structured, adaptable resistance training curriculum, such as the one used in RT4T, can promote long-term engagement in resistance training among youth. The integration of resistance training in school curricula is a means to ensure all youth have access to this essential form of physical activity, contributing to a healthier, more active population.

Authors 5

1. Sarah G. Kennedy corresponding

   Western Sydney University · University of Newcastle Australia

   Affiliation as printed

   Global Sport and Movement Collaborative, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia;

   School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Darug Country, New South Wales, Australia;

   Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Dharawal Country, New South Wales, Australia;

2. David Revalds Lubans

   Hunter Medical Research Institute · University of Newcastle Australia

   Affiliation as printed

   Global Sport and Movement Collaborative, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia;

   Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia;

3. Jordan J. Smith

   Hunter Medical Research Institute · University of Newcastle Australia

   Affiliation as printed

   Global Sport and Movement Collaborative, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia;

   Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia;

4. Angeliek Verdonschot Aachen Faculty of Social and Behavioral Science Institute of Education and Child Studies

   Leiden University

   Affiliation as printed

   Faculty of Social and Behavioral Science, Institute of Education and Child Studies, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands

5. Rhodri S. Lloyd

   Waikato Institute of Technology · Auckland University of Technology · Cardiff Metropolitan University

   Affiliation as printed

   Centre for Sport Science and Human Performance, Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, New Zealand

   Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT, University, Auckland, New Zealand; and

   Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom;