Evolutionary analysis of physical strength capacity in Ecuadorian physical education

Abstract

The aim of this literature review was to analyze the evolution of physical strength within the context of school physical education, considering variables such as age, sex, and pedagogical intervention methods. To this end, more than 40 studies published between 2000 and 2024 in specialized databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and SciELO were reviewed. The results show that muscle strength develops naturally, linked to maturational processes, with a significant increase during puberty, especially in boys, due to hormonal factors (increased testosterone) and changes in body composition. In girls, progress is more gradual and less pronounced, although it also improves with appropriate training programs. The study demonstrates that the inclusion of specific strength training methods, adapted to each developmental stage, has a positive effect on both improving strength and preventing injuries, as well as on developing basic motor skills. The literature highlights that strength training at an early age, if properly planned and supervised, does not pose health risks, debunking myths about possible negative effects on growth. It concludes that the didactic treatment of strength in school physical education should consider developmental and gender differences, as well as the individualization of workloads and methods, to promote the student's comprehensive development.