"Effects of Short Rest Intervals on Body Composition, Hormonal Response and Strength During High-Load Resistance Trainings"

Giorgia Scarfo

doi:10.26717/bjstr.2021.37.005946

Abstract

Resistance training induces a wide range of physiological adaptations, including an increase of muscle strength and hypertrophy. In particular, mechanical stimulus can trigger muscle hypertrophy in cooperation with the neuroendocrine system, which plays a fundamental role in the tissue remodeling

Highlights

Resistance training induces a wide range of physiological adaptations, including an increase of muscle strength and hypertrophy
The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of 8 weeks of resistance protocol based on high load, medium repetition, short rest periods between sets (90s) and short rest periods between exercises on physiological point of view
We observed a significant increase of strength, related to significant increase of DHT and a trend of increase of testosterone, the major responsible to strength increase

Summary

Introduction

Resistance training induces a wide range of physiological adaptations, including an increase of muscle strength and hypertrophy. As the intensity of resistance exercise increases (resulting in increased activation of fast-twitch muscle fibers), a greater emphasis is placed on mechanical stress [3], In contrast, high-volume programs (greater number of repetitions concomitant with the use of short rest intervals) elicit greater metabolic stress [2]. Among the different hormonal adaptations induced by physical exercise, Testosterone (TEST), Growth Hormone (GH) and Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF1) are the most studied hormones. The expression of these hormones is related to the intensity [4], rest interval and volume of the exercise [5]. The modulation of rest intervals in resistance training could induce different muscular tissue and hormonal response. The aim of the present pilot study was to the long-term adaptations induced by short rest intervals in high-load resistance training

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Conclusion