The Effect of Pyramid and Reverse Pyramid Loadings on Spine and Pelvis Coordination Variability During Squat

 Pyramid and reverse pyramid loading patterns are used to increase the training load in resistance training. Although physiological studies have attempted to compare the two patterns, the difference between the two loading patterns on the biomechanics of the spine and pelvis has not been determined. This study aimed to investigate the effect of pyramid and inverted pyramid loadings on spinal and pelvic coordination variability in squat movement.

 Twelve bodybuilding athletes in Tehran City, Iran, voluntarily participated in this study. The subjects performed squat movements as the pyramid and reverse pyramid at intensities of 50%, 70%, and 90% of ten maximum repetitions. Then, the kinematic information of the three segments of their spine and pelvis was recorded. Coordination and variability coordination were calculated using a modified vector coding method.

 The results of repeated measures analysis of variance showed a significant difference in the coordination pattern for pelvic-lower back coordination, lower-back to lower-trunk spine, and lower-trunk-to-upper-trunk spine in the intensity of 50%. A significant difference was observed in the coordination pattern, with an intensity of 70% for the lower back and lower trunk spine. Also, no statistical significance was observed between the pyramidal and inverted pyramidal loading types for spine and pelvis coordination.

 According to the results of increasing the load in pyramid loading and decreasing the load in reverse loading, the coordination of distal couplings affected the sagittal plane more than the proximal one. It is recommended to use the reverse pyramid method for exercises and be more careful when performing pyramid exercises.