Purpose: This study compared the effects of a 4-week in-season strength-training intervention using a functional electromechanical dynamometer (FEMD) versus a free-weight pulley-based (FWPB) system on throwing velocity, strength, and body composition in semiprofessional male handball players. Methods: Seventeen male handball players were randomly assigned to either an FEMD group (n = 8) or an FWPB group (n = 9) and completed a 4-week in-season strength-training program. Preintervention and postintervention assessments included throwing velocity (jumping and standing), isometric and dynamic strength using 2 different resistance devices, and body composition. A 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (time × group interaction) was used to assess the effects of the intervention. Results: No significant time × group interaction effects were observed for most outcomes (P > .05), indicating similar overall training adaptations. Both methodologies improved standing throwing velocity (time: P < .001, n2p=.621), although the FWPB group demonstrated a significantly higher overall jumping throwing velocity (P = .025, n2p=.293). Similarly, FEMD and FWPB training both improved various FEMD-based strength variables (P < .036, n2p>.261) and most pulley-based strength variables (P < .001), with FWPB showing additional specific gains in certain strength and power parameters (P < .05). Additionally, both groups showed overall increases in soft lean mass (P = .002, n2p=.494), with FWPB demonstrating a significant improvement (P = .043), while body-fat percentage remained unchanged. Conclusions: Both FEMD and FWPB strength-training methods improved neuromuscular performance and body composition in handball players during the competitive season, with no clear superiority of either modality. Despite the short duration, the results highlight the relevance of in-season strength training for maintaining and enhancing physical capacities including throwing velocity in handball players.
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