High-intensity Resistance Training Research Articles

Synergism Effects of Ursolic Acid Supplementation on the Levels of Irisin, C-reactive Protein, IL-6, and TNF-α During High-intensity Resistance Training in Low Activity Men.

Ursolic Acid (UA) is a pentacyclic triterpenoid carboxylic acid which is extracted from plants. UA may enhance the effect of Resistance Training (RT) in human. Current research was designed to show the effect of High-Intensity Resistance Training (HIRT) in the presence or absence of UA on the serum levels of irisin, CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α in the low activity men. The study included twenty-two healthy male HIRT with placebo, supplementation, and HIRT in the presence of UA supplementation. The two groups received eight-week intervention including 2 sets of 8 exercises, with 8~10 repetitions at 70~75% of 1 repetition maximum and a 2 min rest interval between sets, performed 3 times/week. Placebo or UA orally was evaluated as 1 capsule 3 times/day during 8 weeks. The subsequent factors were measured post- and preintervention: C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Irisin, Tumor Necrotic Factor (TNF-α) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6). UA supplementation significantly increased the plasma levels of irisin in the HIRT+UA group versus the HIRT+P group (p<0.05). UA treatment also dramatically decreased the plasma levels of CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α in the HIRT+UA group versus the HIRT+P group (p<0.05). The current data showed that UA-induced an increase in serum irisin and reduction of CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α may have beneficial effects as a chemical for increasing of the effects of HIRT in low activity men.

Volume Load Rather Than Resting Interval Influences Muscle Hypertrophy During High-Intensity Resistance Training.

Longo, AR, Silva-Batista, C, Pedroso, K, de Salles Painelli, V, Lasevicius, T, Schoenfeld, BJ, Aihara, AY, de Almeida Peres, B, Tricoli, V, and Teixeira, EL. Volume load rather than resting interval influences muscle hypertrophy during high-intensity resistance training. J Strength Cond Res 36(6): 1554-1559, 2022-Interset rest interval has been proposed as an important variable for inducing muscle mass and strength increases during resistance training. However, its influence remains unclear, especially when protocols with differing intervals have equalized volume. We aimed to compare the effects of long (LI) vs. short rest interval (SI) on muscle strength (one repetition maximum [1RM]) and quadriceps cross-sectional area (QCSA), with or without equalized volume load (VL). Twenty-eight subjects trained twice a week for 10 weeks. Each subject's leg was allocated to 1 of 4 unilateral knee extension protocols: LI, SI, SI with VL -matched by LI (VLI-SI), and LI with VL-matched by SI (VSI-LI). A 3-minute rest interval was afforded in LI and VSI-LI protocols, while SI and VLI-SI employed a 1-minute interval. All subjects trained with a load corresponding to 80% 1RM. One repetition maximum and QCSA were measured before and after training. All protocols significantly increased 1RM values in post-training (p < 0.0001; LI: 27.6%, effect size [ES] = 0.90; VLI-SI: 31.1%, ES = 1.00; SI: 26.5%, ES = 1.11; and VSI-LI: 31.2%, ES = 1.28), with no significant differences between protocols. Quadriceps cross-sectional area increased significantly for all protocols in post-training (p < 0.0001). However, absolute changes in QCSA were significantly greater in LI and VLI-SI (13.1%, ES: 0.66 and 12.9%, ES: 0.63) than SI and VSI-LI (6.8%, ES: 0.38 and 6.6%, ES: 0.37) (both comparisons, p < 0.05). These data suggest that maintenance of high loads is more important for strength increases, while a greater VL plays a primary role for hypertrophy, regardless of interset rest interval.

High-intensity resistance training induces changes in cognitive function, but not in locomotor activity or anxious behavior in rats induced to type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disorder that can lead to cognitive decline through impairment of insulin signaling. Resistance training, a type of physical exercise, is a non-pharmacological approach used to improve insulin resistance in T2D. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of high-intensity resistance training (HIRT) over cognitive function, locomotor activity, and anxious behavior in rats induced to T2D. Thirty young adult male wistar rats were distributed into 3 groups (n = 10): Control; dexamethasone (D); and dexamethasone + exercise (DE), that performed the HIRT during 4 weeks. Blood glucose, water intake, and total body fat were measured. Locomotor activity, and anxious behavior where evaluated through the open field task. Cognitive function was assessed through the novel object recognition task. Insulin resistance and neuronal death were evaluated through western blot analysis. Rats induced to T2D had higher blood glucose levels, and consumed more water when compared to control group, but DE had better blood glucose levels than D. Total body fat was reduced in DE compared to D. Locomotor activity, and anxious behavior were not significantly altered. T2D rats which performed HIRT maintained cognitive function, while those induced to T2D that did not exercise developed cognitive decline. DE group showed a reduction in the inhibition of the activation of hippocampal IRS-1 and higher expression of GSk3β phosphorylated in serine compared to D group, revealing insulin signaling impairment, and neuronal death were identified in the hippocampus of D group. Lifestyle intervention through the regular practice of HIRT plays a fundamental role in the treatment of T2D preventing cognitive decline.

Changes in spinal bone density, back muscle size, and visceral adipose tissue and their interaction following a multi-component exercise program in older men: secondary analysis of an 18-month randomized controlled trial

In older men, we previously reported that a multi-component exercise program improved lumbar spine (LS) trabecular volumetric BMD (Tb.vBMD) compared with no exercise. This study aimed to investigate the following: (1) the effect of the exercise program on paraspinal and psoas (back) muscle CSA and VAT, and 2) if any exercise-related changes in muscle CSA and/or VAT were associated with changes in spinal BMD. Men (n = 180) aged 50-79 years were randomized to an exercise or no-exercise group. Exercise involved high-intensity progressive resistance training (60-85% max) with weight-bearing impact exercise (3 days/week) for 18 months. Quantitative computed tomography was used to assess L1-L3 Tb.vBMD, paraspinal, and psoas muscle CSA and VAT. Exercise resulted in a 2.6% ((95% CI, 1.1, 4.1), P < 0.01) net gain in back muscle CSA, but no effect on VAT (-1.6% (95% CI, -7.3, 4.2)) relative to no exercise. Robust regression indicated that percentage changes in Tb.vBMD were positively associated with changes (expressed as z-scores) in back muscle CSA in both the exercise (beta (β)-coefficient = 1.9, 95% CI 0.5, 3.2, P = 0.007) and no-exercise (β = 2.6, 95% CI, 1.1, 4.1, P = 0.001) group, and negatively with the changes in VAT (β = -2.0, 95% CI -3.3, -0.7, P = 0.003) in the exercise only group. There were no group differences in the slopes for the muscle-bone or VAT-bone relationships. Regression analysis (pooled data) revealed that back muscle CSA and VAT were independent predictors of the change in Tb.vBMD, explaining 14% of the variance. A multi-component exercise program in middle-aged and older men improved spinal BMD and back muscle size but not visceral fat. However, changes in back muscle size and VAT were associated with the changes in spinal BMD, independent of exercise. ACTRN 12617001224314, 22/08/2017 retrospectively registered.

Effects of High-Intensity Resistance Training and Aerobic Exercise on Expression of ABCG4, ABCG5 and ABCG8 Genes in Female Athletes

Effects of High-Intensity Resistance Training and Aerobic Exercise on Expression of ABCG4, ABCG5 and ABCG8 Genes in Female Athletes

The Effects of Whole-Body Photobiomodulation Light-Bed Therapy on Creatine Kinase and Salivary Interleukin-6 in a Sample of Trained Males: A Randomized, Crossover Study.

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) can be applied to the whole body as compared to the application of using single hand-held devices that isolate a smaller muscle area. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of an acute dose of whole-body PBMT pre- and post-high-intensity resistance training on creatine kinase (CK) and salivary interleukin-6 (IL-6) in a sample of trained males. Twelve males (31 ± 8.3 years, 177.2 ± 5.4 cm, and 86.0 ± 7.5 kg) were part of a randomized, counterbalanced, cross-over design, whereby each participant performed a high-intensity resistance training session that consisted of the bench press, chin-up, and repeated sprints on two separate occasions. Each participant was assigned to either the PBMT or control condition on two separate weeks, with a 10-days washout period between the weeks. Creatine kinase was measured at baseline, 24, 48, and 72 h post-exercise. Salivary IL-6 was measured at baseline, 60, 90, and 120 min. A paired t-test showed no significant difference (p = 0.669) in the area under the curve (AUC) for CK during the PBMT (191.7 ± 48.3) and control conditions (200.2 ± 68.0). A Wilcoxon signed-rank test also showed no significant median difference (p = 0.155) in the AUC for salivary IL-6 during the PBMT (Mdn = 347.7) and control conditions (Mdn = 305.8). An additional Wilcoxon signed-rank test for CK percentage change from 24 to 72 h showed the PBMT condition (Mdn = −45%) to have a −18% median difference as compared to the control condition (Mdn = −41%). As such, whole-body PBMT does not significantly reduce the activity of salivary IL-6 or CK concentration during the 24 to 72-h recovery post-high-intensity resistance training.

The acute and chronic effects of resistance training with blood flow restriction on hormonal responses in untrained young men: A comparison of frequency

The present study aimed to determine the effect of low-intensity training with blood flow restriction (BFR) on the response rate of anabolic hormones. Forty healthy and untrained young men, aged 18 to 25 years old, were randomly divided into five groups: one session of BFR training (BFR1), two sessions of BFR training (BFR2), one session of resistance training without BFR (WBFR1), two sessions of resistance training without BFR (WBFR2), and the control group (without training). BFR groups had three sets of 20 repetitions with 20-30% 1RM, and none-BFR groups had three sets of 10 repetitions with 70-80% 1RM for six weeks. Both BFR1 and WBFR1 groups trained 3day a week (1 session in a day and three sessions a week), BFR2 and WBFR2 groups trained three days a week (but two sessions a day and six sessions in a week) and Control group did not perform any training. The mean changes in growth hormone(GH), testosterone(TS), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) hormones were determined by ELISA technique before, after a first training session and after six weeks of the training program. To the analysis of data, two way repeated measures ANOVA at a significant level of P&lt;0.05 also were used. The results showed a significant increase in GH levels in each of the four training groups as compared with the pre-test and the control group after a first training session and after six weeks of the training program (P&lt;0.05). There was no significant increase in TS levels in each of the four training groups, as compared with the pre-test and the control group in both acute and chronic TS response (P&gt;0.05). Only the WBFR1 group did not significantly increase in VEGF levels after the first training session (P&gt;0.05). In chronic VEGF response, there were no significant changes observed in all training groups as compared with the control group(P&gt;0.05). Despite the effectiveness of low-intensity BFR training, such as high-intensity resistance training on hormonal responses, two sessions per day training with the same volume does not necessarily result in larger responses in all hormones than one session per day training.

Effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training on Muscle Strength and Architecture.

Korkmaz, E, Dönmez, G, Uzuner, K, BabayevaŞerife Şeyma Torgutalp, N, and Özçakar, L. Effects of blood flow restriction training on muscle strength and architecture. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-The aim of this study was to compare the effect of the traditional resistance (RES) training and low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction (BFR) protocols on quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, and rectus femoris (RF) and vastus lateralis architecture, in youth team soccer players. Twenty-three young trained soccer team players were divided into 2 groups: the RES group that practiced traditional high-intensity resistance training (80% 1 repetition maximum [1RM], 4 sets, 12 rep.) (n = 12) and the BFR group that performed low-intensity resistance exercise with BFR (30% 1RM, 4 sets, 30-15-15-15 rep) (n = 11)-unilateral knee extension exercise-twice a week for 6 weeks. Muscle strength (isokinetic concentric peak torque of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles) and ultrasonographic parameters (muscle thickness, pennation angle, and fascicle length) were assessed. Bilateral knee flexor and extensor strength was increased in both groups compared with pre-exercise. The increase in dominant side extensor muscle strength (60°·s p = 0.02, ηp = 0.256, 180°·s p = 0.019, ηp = 0.271) and RF thickness (p = 0.002, ηp = 0.361) was statistically higher in the BFR group than in the RES group. These findings support that occlusion training can provide better benefits than traditional strength training to improve muscle hypertrophy. In addition, the novelty of our study is that BFR training may affect the muscle structure measured by ultrasonography.

Effects of supervised high-intensity resistance and impact training or machine-based isometric training on regional bone geometry and strength in middle-aged and older men with low bone mass: The LIFTMOR-M semi-randomised controlled trial.

Few data exist on the effects of bone-targeted exercise on geometric and biomechanical indices of bone strength in men. The Lifting Intervention For Training Muscle and Osteoporosis Rehabilitation for Men (LIFTMOR-M) trial was designed to compare the efficacy and safety of two novel, supervised, twice-weekly, high-intensity exercise programs in middle-aged and older men with osteopenia and osteoporosis on musculoskeletal health and risk factors related to falls and fractures. The current report includes secondary outcomes of the LIFTMOR-M exercise intervention trial. Our goal was to determine the effects of two supervised, twice-weekly, high-intensity exercise programs on bone geometry and strength of the proximal femur, and distal and proximal sites of the tibia and radius in middle-aged and older men with osteopenia and osteoporosis. Generally-healthy men (≥45years), with low lumbar spine (LS) and/or proximal femur areal bone mineral density (aBMD), were recruited from the community. Eligible participants were randomised to either eight months of twice-weekly supervised high-intensity progressive resistance and impact training (HiRIT) or supervised machine-based isometric axial compression (IAC) exercise training. Intervention group outcomes were compared at baseline and eight months with a matched but non-randomised control group (CON) who self-selected to usual activities. DXA scans (Medix DR, Medilink, France) of the skeletally non-dominant proximal femur were analysed using 3D hip software (DMS Group, France) to derive femoral neck (FN) and total hip (TH) bone mineral content (BMC), volume, and volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) for total, trabecular and cortical bone compartments. Total FN cortical thickness was determined as well as anterior, posterior, lateral and medial subregions. pQCT scans (XCT-3000, Stratec, Germany) of the 4 and 38% sites of the tibia, and 4 and 66% sites of the radius were conducted to determine a range of geometric and bone structural strength indices. Intervention effects were examined using univariate ANCOVA of percent change, and repeated measures ANCOVA of raw baseline and follow-up data, controlling for initial values, using intention-to-treat and per-protocol approaches. Ninety-three men (67.1±7.5yrs, 175.2±6.7cm, 82.1±11.6kg, 26.7±3.5kg/m2) with lower than average aBMD (LS T-score -0.06±1.04, FN T-score -1.58±0.58, TH T-score -1.00±0.58) were recruited, and designated CON (n=26) or randomised to HiRIT (n=34) or IAC (n=33). Compliance to the supervised exercise programs did not differ (HiRIT 77.8±16.6% versus IAC 78.5±14.8%, p=0.872). HiRIT improved medial FN cortical thickness compared with CON (5.6±1.7% versus -0.1±1.9%, p=0.028) and IAC (5.6±1.7% versus 0.7±1.7%, p=0.044). Distal tibia total BMC, vBMD, area and bone strength index, and trabecular BMC and bone strength index all declined for CON compared with maintenance for both HiRIT and IAC (all p<0.05). HiRIT maintained distal tibia trabecular area compared with a loss in CON (0.2±0.5% versus -1.6±0.5%, p=0.013). HiRIT and IAC maintained distal radius total BMC compared with loss in CON (-0.1±0.7% versus -3.7±0.8%, p=0.001; 1.3±0.7% versus -3.7±0.8%, p<0.001, respectively). HiRIT and IAC maintained distal radius total bone strength index compared with loss in CON (1.4±1.4% versus -6.0±1.6%, p=0.001; 0.2±1.3% versus -6.0±1.6%, p=0.004, respectively). HiRIT reduced proximal radius cortical area compared with CON (-3.1±1.0% versus 1.1±1.2%, p=0.011) and IAC (-3.1±1.0% versus -0.2±1.0%, p=0.042). No between-group differences were detected in any pQCT-derived bone outcome at the diaphyseal tibia 38% site. Findings indicate that supervised HiRIT provides a positive stimulus to cortical bone at the medial FN compared with supervised IAC exercise, and both HiRIT and IAC preserve bone strength at the distal tibia and distal radius. These effects may translate into a reduced risk of lower and upper extremity fracture in middle-aged and older men with low bone mass.

Comparison of High-Intensity Resistance and Power Training Programs in Pre-Frail and Frail Older Adults

Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine if high-intensity resistance training or power training is more effective in improving strength and functional outcomes in pre-frail and frail older adults.Methods: Participants underwent a 10-week intervention, two times per week, performing either high-intensity resistance or power training programs. Strength and functional outcome measurements were performed pre and post-intervention, with statistical analyses completed to compare the relative impact of the two interventions.Results: High-intensity resistance training outperformed power training in 4/14 dependent variables; including one repetition maximum strength of three muscle groups, and 30 second sit to stand performance. Power training did not result in statistically greater change relative to high-intensity resistance training in any outcomes measured.Conclusions: Further research comparing the two training methods is necessary to determine which intervention is more effective in impacting frailty, and its associated impairments, in older adults.

Effects of High-Intensity Resistance Training on Osteopenia and Sarcopenia Parameters in Older Men with Osteosarcopenia-One-Year Results of the Randomized Controlled Franconian Osteopenia and Sarcopenia Trial (FrOST).

Dynamic resistance exercise (DRT) might be the most promising agent for fighting sarcopenia in older people. However, the positive effect of DRT on osteopenia/osteoporosis in men has still to be confirmed. To evaluate the effect of low-volume/high-intensity (HIT)-DRT on bone mineral density (BMD) and skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) in men with osteosarcopenia, we initiated the Franconian Osteopenia and Sarcopenia Trial (FrOST). Forty-three sedentary community-dwelling older men (aged 73 to 91 years) with osteopenia/osteoporosis and SMI-based sarcopenia were randomly assigned to a HIT-RT exercise group (EG; n = 21) or a control group (CG; n = 22). HIT-RT provided a progressive, periodized single-set DRT on machines with high intensity, effort, and velocity twice a week, while CG maintained their lifestyle. Both groups were adequately supplemented with whey protein, vitamin D, and calcium. Primary study endpoint was integral lumbar spine (LS) BMD as determined by quantitative computed tomography. Core secondary study endpoint was SMI as determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Additional study endpoints were BMD at the total hip and maximum isokinetic hip-/leg-extensor strength (leg press). After 12 months of exercise, LS-BMD was maintained in the EG and decreased significantly in the CG, resulting in significant between-group differences (p < 0.001; standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.90). In parallel, SMI increased significantly in the EG and decreased significantly in the CG (p < 0.001; SMD = 1.95). Total hip BMD changes did not differ significantly between the groups (p = 0.064; SMD = 0.65), whereas changes in maximum hip-/leg-extensor strength were much more prominent (p < 0.001; SMD = 1.92) in the EG. Considering dropout (n = 2), attendance rate (95%), and unintended side effects/injuries (n = 0), we believe our HIT-RT protocol to be feasible, attractive, and safe. In summary, we conclude that our combined low-threshold HIT-RT/protein/vitamin D/calcium intervention was feasible, safe, and effective for tackling sarcopenia and osteopenia/osteoporosis in older men with osteosarcopenia. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Continuous blood pressure monitoring during high-intensity resistance training after myocardial infarction or percutaneous coronary intervention in a phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation setting

The purpose of this study was to investigate the maximum rate-pressure product of cardiac rehabilitation participants after myocardial infarction, percutaneous coronary intervention, or both during high-intensity resistance training (HI-RT) using continuous blood pressure monitoring. Thirty-four individuals exercised on the leg press machine while being monitored with a continuous blood pressure monitor. The maximum rate-pressure product was significantly lower than the established safety threshold of 36,000 (P < 0.001), with a mean of 17,369 and standard deviation of 6634. Only 2% of observations had a value ≥36,000. These results suggest that cardiac rehabilitation patients can perform HI-RT while keeping their rate-pressure products under the safety threshold of 36,000 after myocardial infarction/percutaneous coronary intervention. Performance of HI-RT exercises contributes to return to precardiac event occupations, and continuous blood pressure monitoring may be an effective tool in evaluating the safety of HI-RT in this patient population.

Changes in inflammation and musculoskeletal tissue-derived biomarker serum levels in response to high- and low-intensity resistance training in individuals with knee osteoarthritis

Purpose: Exercise therapy with a focus on muscle strengthening has proven to be effective for the management of knee osteoarthritis (OA). Yet it is not known whether high-intensity resistance training (RT) is more effective in improving upper leg muscle strength and physical performance than low-intensity RT. Still, there is some controversy regarding the effectiveness of high-intensity RT and whether or not it is harmful, for instance by accelerating cartilage degeneration, osteophyte formation, or increasing synovitis.

Dose-response of resistance training for neck-and shoulder pain relief: a workplace intervention study

BackgroundMusculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent among office workers, with strong evidence suggesting that workplace-based resistance training programs can prevent several upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of the present study was to examine the dose-response relationship between resistance training frequency and pain relief among office workers with neck- and shoulder pain.MethodsThirty participants with mild to moderate neck- and shoulder pain attended a 16-week intervention starting with an eight-week control period followed by an eight-week training period. After the control period, the participants were randomized into either a 10 min (TG10) or 2 × 10 min (TG2) workplace-based, high-intensity neck- and shoulder specific resistance training program that was executed 5 days per week and consisting of four exercises. The participants were tested pre and post each period for mean and worst pain using the 0-100 mm visual analog scale (VAS), 0-100 mm health-related quality of life and isometric strength of the neck-and shoulder region. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Friedman with Bonferroni post hoc corrections were used to assess differences in between and within groups for the three testing times pre, mid and post intervention.ResultsNo differences were observed between the groups in any of the variables in the control period (p = 0.27–0.97) or training period (p = 0.37–0.68). When merging the two groups, the mean and worst pain was reduced by 25 and 43% (p = 0.05 and < 0.01, ES = 0.41 and 0.55) in the training period in addition to 10.6% increase in health-related quality of life (p = 0.01, ES = 0.52). No difference in strength was observed (p = 0.29–0.85).ConclusionDaily bouts of specific high-intensity resistance training of the shoulder and neck region at the workplace reduced neck- and shoulder pain and improved quality of life of office workers. However, 10 min bouts were equally effective as 2 × 10 min bouts per day. The authors recommend office workers to perform daily neck- and shoulder resistance training to possibly prevent and/or decrease pain in the neck- and shoulder area.Trial registrationISRCTN69968888, retrospectively registered (24/09/2019).

The effect of high-intensity resistance training and vitamin d supplementation on muscle strength in patients with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial

Purpose: Exercise therapy is the cornerstone of knee osteoarthritis (OA) management. In particular muscle strengthening exercise, targeting the characteristic loss of muscle strength present in knee OA, is a key factor for the beneficial effects reported for exercise therapy. The optimal training intensity for resistance training in patients with knee OA, however, is not known to date. Besides resistance training, vitamin D supplementation in patients with vitamin deficiency may optimize muscle strength.

Skeletal Muscle Protein Composition Adaptations to 10 Weeks of High-Load Resistance Training in Previously-Trained Males.

While high-load resistance training increases muscle hypertrophy, the intramuscular protein responses to this form of training remains largely unknown. In the current study, recreationally resistance-trained college-aged males (N = 15; mean ± SD: 23 ± 3 years old, 6 ± 5 years training) performed full-body, low-volume, high-load [68–90% of one repetition maximum (1RM)] resistance training over 10 weeks. Back squat strength testing, body composition testing, and a vastus lateralis biopsy were performed before (PRE) and 72 h after the 10-week training program (POST). Fiber type-specific cross-sectional area (fCSA), myofibrillar protein concentrations, sarcoplasmic protein concentrations, myosin heavy chain and actin protein abundances, and muscle tissue percent fluid were analyzed. The abundances of individual sarcoplasmic proteins in 10 of the 15 participants were also assessed using proteomics. Significant increases (p < 0.05) in type II fCSA and back squat strength occurred with training, although whole-body fat-free mass paradoxically decreased (p = 0.026). No changes in sarcoplasmic protein concentrations or muscle tissue percent fluid were observed. Myosin heavy chain protein abundance trended downward (−2.9 ± 5.8%, p = 0.069) and actin protein abundance decreased (−3.2 ± 5.3%, p = 0.034) with training. Proteomics indicated only 13 sarcoplasmic proteins were altered with training (12 up-regulated, 1 down-regulated, p < 0.05). Bioinformatics indicated no signaling pathways were affected, and proteins involved with metabolism (e.g., ATP-PCr, glycolysis, TCA cycle, or beta-oxidation) were not affected. These data comprehensively describe intramuscular protein adaptations that occur following 10 weeks of high-load resistance training. Although previous data from our laboratory suggests high-volume resistance training enhances the ATP-PCr and glycolytic pathways, we observed different changes in metabolism-related proteins in the current study with high-load training.

A Comparison of Bone-Targeted Exercise Strategies to Reduce Fracture Risk in Middle-Aged and Older Men with Osteopenia and Osteoporosis: LIFTMOR-M Semi-Randomized Controlled Trial.

The Lifting Intervention For Training Muscle and Osteoporosis Rehabilitation for Men (LIFTMOR-M) trial examined efficacy and safety of two novel exercise programs in older men with low BMD. Men with low hip and/or LS BMD were randomized to high-intensity progressive resistance and impact training (HiRIT) or machine-based isometric axial compression (IAC) and compared to a nonrandomized matched control (CON). Outcomes included: hip and LS BMD; calcaneal ultrasound parameters; anthropometry; body composition; function (timed up-and-go [TUG], five-times sit-to-stand [FTSTS]); back extensor strength (BES); leg extensor strength (LES); compliance and adverse events. Ninety-three men (67.1 ± 7.5 years; 82.1 ± 11.6 kg; 175.2 ± 6.7 cm; FN T-score -1.6 ± 0.6) were randomized to HiRIT (n = 34) or IAC (n = 33), or allocated to CON (n = 26). HiRIT improved trochanteric BMD (2.8 ± 0.8%; -0.1 ± 0.9%, p = .024), LS BMD (4.1 ± 0.7%; 0.9 ± 0.8%, p = .003), BUA (2.2 ± 0.7%; -0.8 ± 0.9%, p = .009), stiffness index (1.6 ± 0.9%; -2.0 ± 1.1%, p = .011), lean mass (1.5 ± 0.8%; -2.4 ± 0.9%, p = .002), TUG, FTSTS, BES, and LES (p < .05) compared with CON. IAC improved lean mass (0.8 ± 0.8%; -2.4 ± 0.9%, p = .013) and FTSTS (-4.5 ± 1.6%; 7.5 ± 2.0%, p < .001) compared with CON. HiRIT improved LS BMD (4.1 ± 0.7%; 2.0 ± 0.7%, p = .039), stiffness index (1.6 ± 0.9%; -1.3 ± 0.9%, p = .025), and FTSTS (-10.7 ± 1.6%; -4.5 ± 1.7%, p = .010) compared with IAC. Exercise compliance was high (HiRIT 77.8 ± 16.6%; IAC 78.5 ± 14.8%, p = .872). There were five minor adverse events (HiRIT, 2; IAC, 3). HiRIT was well-tolerated and improved bone, function and fracture risk more than CON or IAC. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

Resistance training affects the hemodynamic parameters of hypertensive and normotensive women differently, and regardless of performance improvement

Background/ObjectiveAlthough the positive effects of resistance training (RT) on strength and functional capacity have been well evidenced in the scientific literature, the effects of RT on blood pressure and the relationship of these responses with performance improvement are not yet well established. This study aimed to analyze the effects of three and six months of RT on the hemodynamic parameters and functional capacity of hypertensive and normotensive women. MethodSixteen hypertensive and 15 normotensive elderly women participated in a RT protocol designed to increase muscle strength and hypertrophy, lasting six months, twice a week. ResultsSystolic blood pressure (SBP) had a reduction at six months only in hypertensive patients, while diastolic blood pressure (DBP) decreased at six months of intervention in both groups (p < 0.05). SBP showed differences between the groups in the pretest (p < 0.05), but not at three and six months of intervention (p > 0.05). Heart rate (HR) was reduced at three months in hypertensive patients, and at six months in the normotensive (p < 0.05). The strength and functional mobility of both hypertensive and normotensive individuals significantly increased at three and six months of intervention (p < 0.05). Hypertensive women showed increased strength at all moments, while normotensive ones showed improvement only at six months. ConclusionModerate to high intensity RT improves the hemodynamic parameters of hypertensive and normotensive women differently, and independently of strength gain and functional capacity improvement.

The Effect of 12 Weeks of Different Exercise Training Modalities or Nutritional Guidance on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors, Vascular Parameters, and Physical Fitness in Overweight Adults: Cardiometabolic High-Intensity Interval Training-Resistance Training Randomized Controlled Study

Ramírez-Vélez, R, Castro-Astudillo, K, Correa-Bautista, JE, González-Ruíz, K, Izquierdo, M, García-Hermoso, A, Álvarez, C, Ramírez-Campillo, R, and Correa-Rodríguez, M. The effect of 12 weeks of different exercise training modalities or nutritional guidance on cardiometabolic risk factors, vascular parameters and physical fitness in overweight adults: cardiometabolic high-intensity interval training-resistance training randomized controlled study. J Strength Cond Res 34(8): 2178-2188, 2020-Evidence suggests that exercise training improves cardiometabolic risk factors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether 12 weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT), resistance training (RT), concurrent training (CT = HIIT + RT), or nutritional guidance (NG) induced improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors, vascular parameters, and physical fitness in overweight adults, and to compare the responses between the 4 intervention groups. This is a twelve-weeks factorial randomized design examining the effects of different exercise regimes and/or NG on anthropometric and body composition (fat and lean mass at whole body, trunk fat, fat mass index, appendicular muscle mass, and waist circumference); cardiometabolic risk factors and vascular parameters (blood lipids, fasting glucose, blood pressure, flow-mediated dilation [FMD%], aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV), and augmentation index); and physical fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness and handgrip strength). Adjusted mixed linear models revealed a significant improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness (mL·kg·min): HIIT +8.3, RT +4.1, and CT +6.3 (all p < 0.001). The improvement difference between the groups was statistically significant between the HIIT and NG group (p = 0.014), (time × group interaction F(23.564); p < 0.001; η partial = 0.365). In addition, the RT and CT groups have a significant positive impact on PWV (m·s) (d = 0.391 and 0.229 respectively; p < 0.001, (time × group interaction F(5.457); p = 0.003; η partial = 0.280). Hereafter, the RT group has a significant positive impact on the FMD (%) in comparison to HIIT, CT, or NG group (time × group interaction F(2.942); p = 0.044; η partial = 0.174). The main findings of this study are that 12 weeks of HIIT leads to significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, whereas RT resulted in improvements in the vascular profile, supporting the positive effect of both training programs for cardiometabolic risk factors in sedentary and overweight adults.

Gait changes following direct versus contralateral strength training: A randomized controlled pilot study in individuals with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundContralateral strength training (CST) is increasingly investigated and employed as a non-conventional way to induce an indirect gain in strength in the weakened untrained limb. However, its effects on gait performance are more controversial. Research questionTo assess and compare the effects of contralateral (CST) and direct (DST) strength training on spatio-temporal parameters, kinematic and kinetic descriptors of gait in persons with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (PwMS). MethodsTwenty-eight PwMS (EDSS 2.0–5.5) with inter-side difference in ankle dorsiflexors’ strength ≥ 20 % and moderate gait impairment (walking speed 0.70-0.94 m/s), were randomly assigned to a CST (undergoing training of the less-affected dorsiflexors) or DST group (where the most-affected dorsiflexors were trained). Before and after a 6-week high-intensity resistance training (three 25-minute sessions/week), PwMS underwent bilateral measurements of dorsiflexors’ maximal strength and assessment of gait spatio-temporal parameters, lower limb joint kinematics and kinetics. Results and significanceFollowing the training period, muscle strength increased significantly in both groups (on average, CST + 29.5 %, p < 0.0005; DST + 15.7 %, p = 0.001) with no difference between the two interventions. Significant changes in gait speed (+16.5 %; p < 0.0001) and stride length (+6.0 %; p = 0.04) were detected only after DST, while no difference was detected in the CST group. Ankle moment and ROM were unaffected by the training. In PwMS with mild to moderate disability and lower limb dorsiflexors’ strength asymmetry, CST was not inferior to DST in inducing significant strength gains in the untrained most-affected limb. However, only DST significantly improved gait performance and, specifically, walking speed. Even though CST did not worsen asymmetry, data suggest that contralateral approaches should not be recommended straightaway if the training goal is to improve outcomes other than strength and, specifically, walking speed.