The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Technogyms BioStrength machines
compared to conventional strength training equipment in improving physical performance,
muscle strength and body composition in untrained adults. The primary objective is to
determine whether the BioStrength machines, which provide real-time feedback on movement
amplitude, speed and force, lead to superior results in terms of muscle strength, body
composition and training efficiency compared to conventional fitness equipment.
The study will follow a randomised controlled trial design over a 12-week period, using a
minimisation technique to assign participants to either the BioStrength training group or
the traditional strength training group. This technique ensures that key prognostic
factors such as age, gender and baseline handgrip strength are balanced between the
groups, as randomisation alone may not adequately address these factors in smaller sample
sizes. Participants will attend three training sessions per week, each lasting
approximately 60 minutes. The BioStrength group will use advanced machines that provide
personalised feedback to optimise training, while the traditional group will use standard
strength training machines without feedback technology.
The primary outcomes measured in this study include maximum strength, handgrip strength
and body composition. Maximal strength will be assessed using the 10-RM (Repetition
Maximum) test on leg press and chest press exercises, which determines the maximum weight
participants can lift for 10 consecutive repetitions. Hand grip strength is measured
using a Jamar dynamometer, with participants performing three attempts on each hand and
recording the highest value. Body composition will be measured using bioimpedance
analysis (BIA), a non-invasive method of estimating muscle mass and body fat percentage.
In addition, circumference measurements of the arms, legs and waist will provide
complementary data on changes in muscle growth and fat distribution.
The study will recruit 42 healthy adults aged 30-65 years with no more than six months of
previous resistance training experience. Participants with a history of coronary heart
disease, stroke, arthritis, or other medical conditions that could affect physical
performance will be excluded. To allow for a 20% drop-out rate, the study will aim to
recruit 21 participants per group. Recruitment will take place through a local fitness
centre, using social media advertisements and flyers. Participants will be instructed to
maintain their usual dietary habits throughout the 12-week intervention period. They will
be asked not to make any significant changes to their diet or to introduce any new
dietary supplements, as these could influence the outcomes related to muscle strength,
body composition and overall physical fitness.
The study will consist of three phases: baseline, intervention and post-intervention.
During baseline testing, participants will undergo strength and body composition
assessments over two days, including the 10-RM test, handgrip strength measurements, BIA
and circumference measurements. The intervention period will last 12 weeks, during which
time participants will complete their assigned training programme under the supervision
of a sports scientist who will conduct the assessments. After the intervention, all
participants will repeat the same tests to assess changes in strength and body
composition.
Data will be analysed using two-factor ANOVA to compare pre- and post-intervention
outcomes between the two groups. The primary focus will be on changes in maximum
strength, handgrip strength and body composition.
It is hypothesised that the BioStrength training group will show greater improvements in
strength, handgrip strength and body composition compared to the traditional strength
training group. The advanced feedback provided by the BioStrength machines is expected to
result in more efficient and effective strength gains. This study has the potential to
provide valuable insight into the benefits of using advanced strength training equipment
and could influence future training protocols, particularly for individuals new to
strength training.
The study has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the University of Graz and
participants will be fully informed of the purpose, procedures and potential risks of the
study before providing written informed consent. All data will be anonymised and
confidentiality will be strictly maintained throughout the study.
This research could have significant implications for commercial fitness facilities as it
aims to show whether BioStrength machines offer measurable benefits over traditional gym
equipment. If successful, the study could contribute to the development of more
efficient, data-driven training interventions that optimise muscle growth and body
composition improvements for a wider population.
