CORMIE, P., MR MCGUIGAN, and RU NEWTON. Adaptations in Athletic Performance after Ballistic Power versus Strength Training. Med. Sci. Sports Exerc., Vol. 42, No. 8, pp. 1582–1598, 2010. Purpose: To determine whether the magnitude of improvement in athletic performance and the mechanisms driving these adaptations differ in relatively weak individuals exposed to either ballistic power training or heavy strength training. Methods: Relatively weak men (n= 24) who could perform the back squat with proficient technique were randomized into three groups: strength training (n= 8; ST), power training (n= 8; PT), or control (n= 8).