Is There an Optimal Interval for Medal Winning Performance in World Para Powerlifting Competition?

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the optimal interval between competitions for success in World Para Powerlifting events. A total of 1034 female (age = 34.4 ± 9.1 yrs) and 1,697 male (age = 33.7 ± 8.3 yrs) competition results from international Paralympic powerlifting events conducted between 2014 and 2020 were analyzed. Odds ratios for preparations intervals between competitive events were evaluated considering the dependent variable, earning a medal, and the independent variable, level of competition. There was an increased probability of winning a medal when the preparation interval was in the range of 22-30 wks ( P = 0.004), as compared with less than 11 wks, while competing at World Cup events, whereas for World Championships and Paralympic Games, there was an increased probability of winning a medal when the interval range was 23-31 wks ( P = 0.002) and 40 wks or more ( P = 0.011) compared with less than 23 wks. However, there were no significant differences between preparation intervals for Regional Games/Championships. The Para Powerlifting athletes participating in the World Cup events, World Championships, and Paralympic Games share an optimal interval for success of approximately 21-31 wks and results from the World Championships and Paralympic Games, which can also be optimized with an interval of 40 wks or more.