The Efficacy of Deadlifting for Occupational Performance in the United States Marine Corps
Date of Award
Spring 4-1-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Kinesiology (EdD)
Department
Kinesiology
First Advisor
Brian Serrano
Second Advisor
Stephanie Hamilton
Third Advisor
Matthew Buns
Abstract
Purpose: Exploration of deadlift inclusion for tactical strength and conditioning in United States Marines for enhancement of occupational performance. Problem: Limited previous research involving deadlift training routines for specialized occupations. Hypothesis: 3RM deadlift periodization will produce significant strength aptitudes for population training parameters. Methods: 48 participants (22 EG, 26 CG), ages 18-27, conducted 8-week protocol with training sessions performed 3 times per week, baseline and post assessments conducted at Week 1 and Week 8 with customized USMC physical fitness assessment. EG performed DL protocol based on individual’s 3RM; D1= 65% of 3RM @ 4 sets x 15 repetitions, D2= 75% of 3RM @ 4 sets x 6 repetitions, D3= 85% of 3RM @ 3 sets x 3 repetitions. CG performed farmer walk carries for prescribed distance of 150 feet. Results: Independent sample t-test displayed Pre 3RM DL EG mean of 264.8 ± 59.8 (lbs) versus Pre 3RM DL CG mean of 222.7 ± 69.4 (lbs); Post 3RM DL EG yielded a mean 295.9 ± 59.8 (lbs) versus Post 3RM DL CG yielded a mean 224.6 ± 73.3 (lbs). Critical T-Value (CV) for the two-tailed t-test calculated to approximately ± 2.013. Single and two tailed t-tests indicated significant difference between EG and CG for Pre 3RM DL and Post 3RM DL (p < .001). Cohen’s d effect size calculated value of .650 for Pre 3RM DL and 1.066 for Post 3RM DL. Discussion: 3RM DL exhibited significant physiological adaptations in strength performance and innovative design of fitness test effectively captured applicable strength progression in tactical athletes.