The Effect of Mace Training on Strength, Mobility, and Stability in Elite Wrestlers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objectives This study examined the impact of mace training on strength, mobility, stabilization, and endurance in elite wrestlers, exploring its potential advantages over traditional resistance training. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 27 elite male wrestlers assigned to either a mace training group (n = 13) or a control group (n = 14). The experimental group performed mace exercises three times per week for 12 weeks alongside regular training. Pre- and post-training assessments included grip strength, shoulder mobility, closed kinetic chain upper extremity stability (CKCUEST), push-up endurance, and proprioception. Results Mace training significantly improved grip strength (Dominant [D]: F = 28.009, p < 0.001, \(\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}\)=0.49; Non-dominant [ND]: F=12.864, p=0.001, \(\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}\)=0.31), shoulder mobility (D:F =17.079, p<0.001, \(\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}\)=0.39), upper extremity stability closed kinetic chain upper extremity stability (CKCUEST) (F=48.495, p < 0.001, \(\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}\)=0.66), and push-up performance (F=16.290, p<0.001, \(\:{\eta\:}_{P}^{2}\)=0.40). However, proprioception at 60° and 120° showed no significant differences (p>0.05). Conclusion Mace exercises effectively enhance grip strength, mobility, and stabilization in elite wrestlers, making them a valuable functional training tool. Future research should explore long-term effects and applications in other combat sports. Clinical trial number: not applicable.