EFFECTS OF RESISTANCE VERSUS ENDURANCE TRAINING ON CARDIORESPIRATORY AND MUSCULAR FITNESS IN PERSONS WITH PARAPLEGIA

Abstract

Purpose This study compared the effects of a structured 12-wk resistance training program with 12-wks of endurance training on peak VO2, upper extremity strength and power output in persons with chronic paraplegia. Methods Sixteen subjects, (29.8 ± 8.1 yrs and 72.9 ± 20.0 kg), with neurologically complete paraplegia at the T6-10 levels, participated in this study. Subjects were matched into pairs (gender and body mass) and assigned to one of two training groups. One group completed 12-wks of upper extremity resistance training (RT) 3 days/wk. Six bilateral resistance maneuvers were performed: chest press, horizontal row, shoulder press, high pull, dips, and bicep curls. Subjects performed three sets of 10 repetitions on each exercise at 70% of one repetition maximum (1RM). Upper extremity strength (1RM) was assessed prior to training and every four wks thereafter using the Mayhew regression equation. The endurance training (ET) group performed 30 min of arm ergometry at 70–85% of HRpeak 3 days/wk for 12-wks. Peak VO2 was determined using a discontinuous protocol on a Monark arm ergometer. Metabolic responses and heart rate were continuously monitored via open-circuit spirometry and 12-lead EKG. Power output was increased 10W/stage to the point of volitional exhaustion. Pre- and post-training arm Wingate Anaerobic Tests (WAnT) were performed using a resistance level equivalent to 3.5% of the subjects' body mass. Outcome variables were compared between groups and across time using two-way ANOVA for repeated measures. Results Following training, peak VO2 significantly increased (p < 0.05) for both groups 15.5 to 17.2 ml*kg−1*min−1 (RT) and 16.5 to 18.5 ml*kg−1*min−1 (ET), with no significant differences observed between groups. Upper extremity strength and peak power significantly increased in the RT (p < 0.01), with no significant changes observed in the ET group. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that chronic survivors of paraplegia can significantly improve their cardiorespiratory endurance, upper extremity strength, and power output through the participation in a short-term resistance training program.