Task-specific and generalized physical training for improving manual-material handling capability

Abstract Physical training can be defined as muscular activity designed to enhance the physical capacity of the individual by improving one or more of the components of physical fitness. Components of fitness include muscular strength, muscular endurance, and cardiorespiratory endurance. Studies examining the influence of physical training on manual material handling (MMH) capability can be separated into two categories: those that use the same task for testing and training (task-specific training studies) and those that do not (general training studies). In task-specific training studies, reported relative improvements in maximal symmetric lifting and repetitive lifting are 26–183% and in general training studies, 16–32%. Psychomotor learning probably accounts for a large proportion of performance gains in task-specific training but some localized improvements in muscle activation and hypertrophy also occur. Generalized training studies have exercised more major muscle groups, and more widespread improvements in muscle activation and muscle hypertrophy account for gains here. While both types of physical training are effective, general training may be useful for improving a wide range of MMH tasks, while task-specific training results in larger gains in targeted MMH tasks. Models for both types of training can be derived from examples in the military. Relevance to industry Industrial jobs with well-defined, physically demanding tasks can benefit from task-specific physical training that targets the specific components of physical fitness necessary for the successful completion of the task. Occupations that include unusual or unexpected physical demands (e.g., military or police) can benefit from a more generalized physical training program.