Les Mills BODYPUMP and Athleticism Study
BODYPUMP™ generates athletic development; improving strength, power and speed. In addition, total score of athleticism is strongly correlated to lifting ability within the training program. BODYPUMP offers an alternative training mechanism to assist athletic/sports performance.
Introduction
Athleticism has become an increasingly popular term in the fitness industry as a growing number of people look to science-backed fitness programs to enhance their athletic performance.
Purpose of the study
The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of 52 weeks of low-load / high-repetition resistance training in the form of BODYPUMP on athletic performance in healthy adults.
Method
Twenty-six, healthy adults (4 males and 22 females) took part in the year-long study. Prior to it starting, participants had been doing BODYPUMP at least twice a week for a minimum of one
year. BODYPUMP was their sole method of in-club training. Participants were assessed for strength, power and speed via the following tests:
- Strength - isometric mid-thigh pull
- Speed - 10m sprint time
- Explosive power - countermovement jump
- Total score of athleticism - a combination of the above
These results were then correlated to the loads lifted in a BODYPUMP™ class per kg for each participant.
Conclusion
The study findings show that doing BODYPUMP does have athletic carry over for improving strength, power and speed. In addition, total score of athleticism is strongly correlated to lifting ability within the training program. In summary, regular BODYPUMP offers an alternative training mechanism to assist athletic/sports performance.
More about the author
Bryce Hastings
Bryce Hastings drives the science behind the sweat, leading world class research that shapes how millions of people train. Working alongside internationally renowned research partners, Bryce bridges the gap between the lab and the gym floor, ensuring every LES MILLS™ program is safe, effective, and powered by science.
He has developed numerous research programs and co authored reports across a range of fitness and scientific publications. These include the landmark Get Fit Together trial, alongside research into core conditioning, high intensity interval training, and exercise strategies for sedentary individuals.
A certified Physical Therapist since 1986, Bryce’s academic work is supported by extensive hands on experience. He owned a private practice within the original Les Mills World of Fitness in Auckland and holds an Advanced Diploma in Manipulative Therapy and a Master of Philosophy from Auckland University of Technology, where he serves as a Research Associate and lectured part time for eight years.
