Effect of different interset rest intervals on mean velocity during the squat and bench press exercises

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aimed to compare the effect of three interset rest intervals (1, 3, and 5 minutes) on (I) mean velocity during a resistance training session conducted in a Smith machine with the squat and bench press exercises, and (II) the pre- and post-exercise force-velocity relationship. Fifteen male university students completed three sessions (i.e., Rest 1ʹ, Rest 3ʹ, and Rest 5ʹ) consisting of three sets of five repetitions against the 10RM load during the squat and bench press exercises. The force-velocity relationship (maximal values of force [F 0], velocity [v 0], and power [Pmax]) was evaluated at the beginning and at the end of each session with the countermovement jump and bench press throw exercises. During training, mean velocity was slower in sets 2 and 3 of the Rest 1ʹ protocol compared to Rest 3ʹ and Rest 5ʹ, but no significant differences were present between Rest 3ʹ and Rest 5ʹ. After training, there was a significant decrease in F 0 (p = 0.017) and Pmax (p = 0.010), but not in v 0 (p = 0.259). These results support the Rest 3ʹ as the most time-efficient protocol, among those analysed, for the maintenance of high mean velocities during training sessions not leading to failure.