School-based strength training programs applied in Physical Education for students aged 12 to 18. A Systematic Review

Authors

  • Eduardo Mateos-Martín Instituto Universitario de Ciencias de la Educación (IUCE). Universidad de Salamanca. https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0654-4809
  • Josué Prieto-Prieto Instituto Universitario de Ciencias de la Educación (IUCE). Universidad de Salamanca.
  • Jakeline López-Rodríguez Instituto Universitario de Ciencias de la Educación (IUCE). Universidad de Salamanca.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v71.116038

Keywords:

Adolescent, Physical Education, Strength Training, Muscular Strength, School-Based Program

Abstract

Introduction: This systematic review was focused on analysing the effectiveness of resistance training (RT) programs implemented within the Physical Education (PE) scholar curriculum to improve muscular strength in adolescents. It also investigated the existence of studies demonstrating significant improvements with short-duration (15 to 20 minutes) RT programs.

Methodology: An exhaustive search was conducted in the Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases, covering publications from January 2020 to December 2024. The inclusion criteria selected experimental studies that included a control group and an intervention group receiving an RT program, with the strength variable measured as the primary outcome.

Results: Eight articles were included in the review. In all analysed studies, RT programs were implemented with various methodologies and exercises, including suspension training, throws, jumps, and free-weight exercises. The results of these studies indicated consistent improvements in strength measurements in the intervention groups compared to the control groups.

Discussion: The findings were compared with other reviews and previous studies, which also reported improvements in strength in adolescents, although with variations in the types and durations of programs and sessions.

Conclusions: RT programs applied during PE classes are effective in improving muscular strength in adolescents. Additionally, the evidence suggests that even 15 to 20 minutes intervention programs can generate an improvement in muscular strength for this population group.

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Published

2025-08-22

How to Cite

Mateos-Martín, E., Prieto-Prieto, J., & López-Rodríguez, J. (2025). School-based strength training programs applied in Physical Education for students aged 12 to 18. A Systematic Review. Retos, 71, 604–616. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v71.116038

Issue

Vol. 71 (2025)

Section

Theoretical systematic reviews and/or meta-analysis

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