Overview of the 13th International Conference on Strength Training
The 13th International Conference on Strength Training (ICST) in Freiburg, Germany, brought together over 300 researchers, clinicians, and elite athletes for three days of presentations, workshops, and networking. The event was hosted by the University of Freiburg and highlighted emerging trends in strength training for populations across the lifespan.
Professor Tibor Hortobágyi – Research Leader at Hungarian University of Sports Science
Professor Tibor Hortobágyi, a leading figure in kinesiology, delivered the keynote on “Strength training in older adults: Does it improve the energy cost of walking?” His work investigates how resistance training influences metabolic efficiency and functional mobility in seniors. The presentation built on a body of research conducted at the Department of Kinesiology at the Hungarian University of Sports Science (HUSS).
Why Energy Cost of Walking Matters for Older Adults
Walking is the most common daily activity. For older adults, the metabolic demand of walking can be a limiting factor in participating in community life. If strength training can reduce the energy expenditure required to cover a standard distance, it may translate into improved endurance, reduced risk of fatigue, and heightened quality of life.
Key Findings from Professor Hortobágyi’s Study
- Participants performed a 12‑week periodized strength program focusing on lower‑body muscle groups.
- Pre‑ and post‑intervention measurements included VO₂ during treadmill walking, joint power output, and muscle cross‑sectional area.
- After training, participants displayed a 7% reduction in VO₂ for a 10‑minute walk at a fixed speed.
- Quadriceps hypertrophy correlated strongly with decreased energy cost, indicating that muscle strength outweighs endurance changes.
These findings support the hypothesis that targeted resistance training improves walking economy by enhancing muscular efficiency and joint biomechanics.
Implications for Strength Coaching Practices
Strength coaches can translate the research into actionable protocols:
- Periodized Volume: Gradual increase in load over 12 weeks, with reassessment every four weeks.
- Multi‑Junction Focus: Emphasize ankle, knee, and hip extensors to improve stride mechanics.
- Functional Load Transfers: Incorporate functional circuits that simulate walking patterns (e.g., lunges, step‑ups, stair climbs).
- Track metabolics where possible – even a simple heart rate monitor during sub‑maximal walking can indicate improved efficiency.
Integrating Eccentric Workouts – Workshop Highlights
The conference hosted workshops on eccentric strength training. Eccentric contractions, where the muscle lengthens under load, can produce high force with relatively low energy cost. Practical advice includes:
- Use controlled negative phases of squats or deadlifts for 3–4 seconds.
- Incorporate plyometric “drop” jumps to train eccentric loading of the calf muscles.
- Schedule eccentric sessions thrice a week, ensuring ample recovery to avoid hamstring strains.
Cluster Sets for Strength and Power Coaches
Another workshop covered cluster sets – short micro‑rest intervals between repetitions within a set. Benefits are double: higher total load and increased movement quality. Apply them by:
- Performing 5–6 reps with 10–15 second rests between each.
- Focusing on explosive concentric actions for power development.
- Using them in upper‑body exercises like bench press or pulling movements for balanced training.
How HUSS Supports Translational Research
Hungarian University of Sports Science places a strong emphasis on moving laboratory findings into practical solutions. The Department of Kinesiology houses a dedicated Research Center for Molecular Exercise Science, funded by grants and partnered with international institutions. This research ecosystem ensures:
- Ongoing collaborations with universities across Europe.
- Active mentorship for doctoral students working on biomechanical modeling.
- Translational clinics where athletes and community members can access evidence‑based interventions.
Practical Takeaway for Clinicians and Coaches
- Implement a 12‑week lower‑body strength program focusing on progressive overload.
- Add eccentric work to maximize force production while minimizing metabolic strain.
- Use cluster sets sparingly to improve load capacity and power.
- Monitor walking economy before and after to assess real‑world impact.
- Educate older clients about the dual benefits of strength: improved functional independence and reduced daily energy cost.
Further Resources and Next Steps
Interested professionals can delve deeper into the data through HUSS’s International Studies Office portal, which hosts downloadable abstracts and full‑text papers. The conference website (ICST 2025) offers recordings of the keynote and workshop sessions for those who missed the live event.
For those seeking to expand their knowledge or collaborate on future research, the Hungarian University of Sports Science welcomes inquiries. The department’s contact page lists dedicated faculty for partnership opportunities.
Call to Action
- Explore further research on strength training benefits by visiting the Research Portfolio.
- Submit your application today to join our graduate programs and contribute to cutting‑edge sports science studies.
- Schedule a free consultation with our strength coaching team to tailor a program for older adults.
- Share your own experiences or questions in the comments below – community insights drive innovation.
- Stay updated by reading related articles on our blog for the latest evidence in strength training.
