The aim of this master’s thesis was to determine the differences in the effects of lower-limb strength training between flywheel (inertial) and traditional resistance training, using the force–velocity and power–velocity relationships, during squatting on a flywheel device, squatting with a hex bar, and under isokinetic conditions. We sought to examine whether adaptations to flywheel training differ from adaptations to hex-bar training. Thirty participants aged between 54 and 81 years (8 men and 22 women) were included in the study. The training intervention lasted seven weeks. The experimental group performed squats on a flywheel device, while the control group performed squats with a hex bar. Participants completed three testing sessions: the first two were conducted one week apart, and the third was performed ten weeks after the second testing session. Relative training intensity was equated by ensuring that each participant trained with the load at which they produced the highest mechanical power during the initial measurements. Following the training intervention, analysis of covariance revealed statistically significant between-group differences in isokinetic dynamometer testing for the variables Knee Extension 180°/s (Nm/kg) (F = 4,678; p < 0,05*; ηp2 = 0,158) and the slope F-v of the knee flexors (F = 5,29; p < 0,05*; ηp2 = 0,227). In contrast, no statistically significant between-group differences were observed in measurements performed with the hex bar. Similarly, no significant differences were found in the concentric phase of the squat on the flywheel device. In contrast, measurements on the inertial device in the eccentric phase of the squat showed statistically significant differences between the groups in mean force at a load of 0.075 kg·m². Overall, the results of our study did not show systematic differences in the effects of lower-limb strength training between the two loading modalities. Both flywheel training and hex-bar training led to comparable adaptations that positively influenced lower-limb muscle strength in older adults. Based on our findings, the choice of training modality does not appear to be decisive, as no clear advantage of one method over the other can be conclusively identified.
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