Effects of manual resistance versus weight resistance training on body composition and strength in young adults after a 14-week intervention

Abstract

Manual Resistance Training (MRT) is an alternative training modality where the external resistance is provided by a spotter. PurposeThe purpose of this study was to observe changes in body composition and muscular fitness after a 14-week MRT intervention compared to changes elicited by a Weight Resistance Training (WRT) intervention. MethodsEighty-four young adults were randomly assigned to either the MRT (n = 53, height 170.1 ± 8.1 cm, body mass 73.9 ± 16.0 kg, and body fat 24.6 ± 8.7%) or WRT (n = 31, mean ± SD: height 169.6 ± 10.1 cm, body mass 75.0 ± 17.4 kg, and body fat 24.7 ± 8.5%) group. Body composition was assessed by Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA), muscular strength and muscular endurance were tested before and after the intervention. ResultsFindings indicated that trunk, arm, leg, and total lean mass increased in both groups after the intervention (p < 0.05). Moreover, total fat mass significantly decreased compared to baseline in both groups (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant changes were observed in Bone Mineral Density and Bone Mineral Content in response to the intervention. Both MRT and WRT programs were successful at significantly increasing muscular strength and endurance (p < 0.05). ConclusionThe changes in body composition after a 14-week MRT program were similar to those of the WRT intervention. Hence, an MRT program may be effectively used to increase lean mass and decrease fat mass.