Unfavorable Effects of Resistance Training on Central Arterial Compliance

Abstract

0379 PURPOSE: A reduction in arterial compliance is an emerging risk factor for cardiovascular disease mortality and morbidity. We determined the effects of resistance (weight) training on carotid arterial compliance using the randomized intervention study design. METHODS: Twenty-eight healthy men aged 20–38 yrs were random1y assigned to exercise intervention (n = 14) or control (n = 14) group. The intervention group underwent supervised whole-body resistance training 3 days/wk for 4 months and detraining for the subsequent 4 months. The control group was instructed not to alter their normal activity levels during the entire study period. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in baseline carotid arterial compliance and betastiffness index (simultaneous carotid ultrasound and applanation tonometry) between the intervention and control groups. In the intervention group, resistance training increased maximal bench press (19%), dead lift (32%), and squat (55%) strength (all p < 0.001). Carotid arterial compliance decreased 19% (0.21 ± 0.02 mm2/mm Hg vs. 0.17 ± 0.01 mm2/mm Hg, mean ± SE) and beta-stiffness index increased 21% (2.12 ± 0.18 U vs. 2.50 ± 0.14 U) after resistance training (all p < 0.05). These changes returned to the baseline levels (0.20 ± 0.01 mm2/mm Hg and 2.24 ± 0.15 U) during the subsequent detraining period, confirming that the changes in arterial compliance was due to the effect of resistance training per se. There were no significant changes in any of the variables in the control group. Femoral arterial compliance (measure of peripheral artery compliance), brachial and carotid blood pressure, and carotid intima-media thickness did not change significantly in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: In marked contrast to the beneficial effect of regular aerobic exercise, resistance training reduces central arterial compliance in healthy men. Considering the recent guidelines that resistance training be incorporated into a preventive and rehabilitative program of overall physical activity, the present findings may have an important implication for exercise prescription.