High Resistance Training Research Articles

The Effect of Time-Equated Concurrent Training Programs in Resistance-Trained Men.

The purpose of this investigation was to compare the effects of three different concurrent training (CT) programs and a resistance training (RT) program. Twenty-three resistance trained men (age: 24 ± 3 years) were randomized into four groups: concurrent RT and high intensity interval cycling (CTH, n = 6), concurrent RT and moderate intensity continuous cycling (CTM, n = 5), RT and barbell circuit training (RTC, n = 6), or RT only (RT, n = 6). Back squat and bench press strength, quadriceps, and pectoralis muscle thickness, VO2peak, and maximum workload (Wmax, Watts) were assessed. Squat strength gains were meaningful in all groups and comparable among CTH (16.88 kg [95% CrI: 11.15, 22.63]), CTM (25.54 kg [95% CrI: 19.24, 31.96]), RTC (17.5 kg [95% CrI: 11.66, 23.39]), and RT (20.36 kg [95% CrI: 15.29, 25.33]) groups. Bench press strength gains were meaningful in all groups and comparable among CTH (11.86 kg [95% CrI: 8.28, 15.47]), CTM (10.3 kg [95% CrI: 6.49, 14.13]), RTC (4.84 kg [95% CrI: 1.31, 8.47]), and RT (10.16 kg [95% CrI: 7.02, 13.22]) groups. Quadriceps hypertrophy was meaningful in all groups and comparable among CTH (2.29 mm [95% CrI: 0.84, 3.76]), CTM (3.41 mm [95% CrI: 1.88, 4.91]), RTC (2.6 mm [95% CrI: 1.17, 4.05]), and RT (2.83 mm [95% CrI: 1.55, 4.12]) groups. Pectoralis hypertrophy was meaningful in CTH (2.29 mm [95% CrI: -0.52, 5.1]), CTM (5.14 mm [95% CrI: 2.1, 8.15]), and RTC (7.19 mm [95% CrI: 4.26, 10.02]) groups, but not in the RT group (1 mm [95% CrI: -1.59, 3.59]); further, between-group contrasts indicated less pectoralis growth in the RT compared to the RTC group. Regarding cardiovascular outcomes, only the RTH and RTM groups experienced meaningful improvements in either measure (VO2peak or Wmax). These data suggest that the interference effect on maximal strength and hypertrophy can be avoided when the aerobic training is moderate intensity cycling, high intensity cycling, or a novel barbell circuit for ~one hour per week and on non-RT days. However, the barbell circuit failed to elicit meaningful cardiovascular adaptations.

Effectiveness of High Load Plantar Fascia Resistance Training among Athletes with Plantar Fasciitis

Background: Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia,a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the feet, connecting the heel to the toes. It is particularlyprevalent among athletes who engage in activities that involve repetitive impact, such as running, jumping.Athletes with plantar fasciitis often undergo a structured rehabilitation program that incorporates high loadresistance training alongside other interventions such as stretching, massage, orthotic devices, and modificationsin training and footwear.Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of High Load Plantar Fascia Resistance Training with ultrasound andIntrinsic Muscle strengthening with ultrasound among athletes with Plantar Fasciitis.Materials and Methods: Total of 60 subjects were selected from Sri Sai Ortho General Clinic based on the selectioncriteria and randomly divided into two groups; High load plantar fascia resistance training (HLST) with ultrasound(n=30) and Intrinsic muscle strengthening with ultrasound (n=30). The subjects were assessed for pain intensityusing NPRS and using LEFS, for pre and post-test values. The interventions were given for 2 weeks. Study period: November 2022 to March 2023Result: The result of the study revealed that both exercises are effective but (HLST) with ultrasound was moreeffective and significant in terms of decreasing pain and improving functional mobility.Conclusion: Hence the study concludes that HLST was more effective in managing plantar fasciitis in terms ofboth relieving pain as well as functional mobility among athletes with plantar fasciitis.

Highlighting the effect of reduced training volume on maintaining hormonal adaptations obtained from periodized resistance training in sarcopenic older women

ABSTRACT Background This study investigated the impact of the High Intensity Interval Resistance Training (HIIRT) protocol on hormonal changes in older women. Research design and methods Forty sarcopenic women were divided into an experimental group (EX = 30) and a control group (C = 10). The EX-group was further divided into Maintenance Training 1 (MT1 = 10), Maintenance Training 2 (MT2 = 10), and Detraining (DT = 10). The participants underwent 8 weeks of resistance training, consisting of hypertrophy and strength cycles. Following this, the EX-group had a 4-week period with no exercise or a reduced training volume. Measurements were taken at three time points. Results After 8 weeks, the EX-group showed significant improvements in Insulin Like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), Myostatin (MSTN), Follistatin (Fstn), Growth Hormone (GH) and Cortisol (Cort) compared to the control group. During the volume reduction period, there were no significant differences between MT1 and MT2 groups, but both groups saw increases in IGF-1, Fstn, GH, and decreases in MSTN and Cort compared to the DT group. Conclusions These findings suggest that performing at least one training session per week with the HIIRT protocol is crucial for maintaining hormonal adaptations in sarcopenic older women.

High versus Low-Intensity Resistance Training on Bone Mineral Density and Content Acquisition by Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The menopause stage in women reduces estrogen levels and bone indicators. This study compared the effects of high-intensity resistance training (HIRT) and low-intensity resistance training (LIRT) on bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC), T-score, and Z-score in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 45 postmenopausal women, aged 50 to 60, who were randomly assigned into 3 parallel groups (n = 15 in each). The exercise program was performed by the interventional groups-the HIRT and LIRT groups-at 4 different intensities, 3 times a week for 24 weeks: 8 repetitions at 80% of 1 repetition maximum and 16 repetitions at 40% of 1 repetition maximum. The evaluated areas (BMD, BMC, T-score, and Z-score) included the lumbar spine (LS) and the femur neck (FN) using a DEXA machine. One-way analysis of covariance and Bonferroni's post hoc tests were used for data analysis. The results indicated significant differences in BMD, BMC, T-scores, and Z-scores between the means of the LS and the FN in all groups. In addition, significant differences were revealed in the BMC of the LS, the BMD, T-scores (P < 0.001), Z-scores (P = 0.001), and in the BMC of the FN (P < 0.001), the BMD (P = 0.001), T-scores, and Z-scores (P < 0.001), respectively. In addition, the HIRT group's bone indices were considerably greater than those of the LIRT group (P < 0.00). Nonetheless, LIRT was significantly greater than that of the control group (P > 0.00). According to the current findings, HIRT seems to be the most effective training program compared with LIRT for bone indicators improvement in the femur neck and the lumbar spine among postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

Effects Of An 11-week High Functional Resistance Training Program On Indices Of Arterial Stiffness

Effects Of An 11-week High Functional Resistance Training Program On Indices Of Arterial Stiffness

Effects of motor fatigue on cortical activation level and functional connectivity during upper limb resistance training.

This study aimed to clarify the effects of motor fatigue on cortical activation levels and functional connectivity during upper limb resistance training using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). Ten healthy college students participated in a high intensity upper limb resistance training and fNIRS was used to measure the changes of oxyhemoglobin concentration changes (HbO) in bilateral sensorimotor cortex (SMC), premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor area (SMA), and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). The integral value (IV) of blood oxygen signal was calculated as an indicator of cortical activation level and the whole brain correlation analysis was used to calculate cortical functional connectivity. The results showed that as motor fatigue deepened, the activation levels of bilateral DLPFC and PMC in early stage were significantly higher than those in later stage (P<0.05), and the functional connectivity strength of the motor related cortex areas between the hemispheres was significantly reduced, which was manifested by the functional connectivity strength of LSMC-RSMC and LPMC-RSMC showed a significant decrease in middle stage compared with that in early stage (P<0.05) and that the functional connectivity strength of LPMC-RSMC and RSMC-SMA showed a significant decrease in later stage compared with that in early stage (P<0.05). In each stage, the motor related cortex areas maintained high activation levels and the cerebral cortex showed extensive functional connectivity.Clinical Relevance- The clinical relevance of this study is to deepen the understanding of the neural processes related to upper limb resistance training based on motor fatigue, and provide a clinical basis for optimizing resistance training strategies related to motor dysfunction patients with altered brain function under fatigue.

Effect of High-Intensity vs. Moderate-Intensity Resistance Training on Strength, Power, and Muscle Soreness in Male Academy Soccer Players.

McQuilliam, SJ, Clark, DR, Erskine, RM, and Brownlee, TE. The effect of high vs. moderate-intensity resistance training on strength, power and muscle soreness in male academy soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 37(6): 1250-1258, 2023-The aims of this study were to investigate the impact of high-intensity, low-volume (HRT) vs . moderate-intensity, and high-volume resistance training (MRT) vs . soccer training only (control group [CON]) on changes in strength, power, and speed and to compare delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) between groups in male academy soccer players (ASP). Twenty-two ASP (age: 18 ± 1 years) were assigned to HRT ( n = 8), MRT ( n = 7), or CON ( n = 7). High-intensity resistance training completed 2 sets of 4 repetitions parallel back squat (PBS) repetitions at 90% 1 repetition maximum (1RM), while MRT performed 3 sets of 8 repetitions PBS repetitions at 80% 1RM, both once a week for 6 weeks in-season, alongside regular soccer training. All groups completed the following pretraining and posttraining assessments: 3RM PBS, bilateral vertical and horizontal countermovement jumps (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), and 30-m sprint. Delayed onset muscle soreness was assessed using a visual analog scale throughout training. High-intensity resistance training and MRT experienced similar increases compared with CON in absolute PBS 3RM ( p < 0.001), SJ height ( p = 0.001), and CMJ height ( p = 0.008) after training. There was a greater increase in PBS 3RM relative to body mass after HRT than MRT and CON ( p = 0.001) and horizontal CMJ distance improved in HRT but not in MRT or CON ( p = 0.011). There was no change in 10-m, 20-m, or 30-m sprint performance in any group. High-intensity resistance training volume was 58 ± 15% lower than that of MRT ( p < 0.001), and DOMS measured throughout training did not differ between groups ( p = 0.487). These findings suggest that 1 HRT session a week may be an efficient method for improving strength and power in ASP in-season with minimal DOMS.

Effects of Resistance Training Intensity on Heart Rate Variability at Rest and in Response to Orthostasis in Middle-Aged and Older Adults.

Objective: Aging and deficits related to decreased physical activity can lead to higher risks of autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 24 weeks of resistance training (RT) at various intensities on hemodynamics as well as heart rate variability (HRV) at rest and in response to orthostatic tests in middle-aged and older adults. Methods: Forty adults were randomized into three groups: high-intensity (HEX) (80% 1-RM) (11 female, 4 male; 60 ± 4 years); low–moderate-intensity (LEX) (50% 1-RM) (nine female, four male; 61 ± 5 years); and a control group (CON) (eight female, four male; 60 ± 4 years). The RT program consisted of nine exercises, with two sets performed of each exercise two times per week for 24 weeks. Data collected included 1-RM, heart rate, and blood pressure and HRV at rest and in response to orthostasis. Results: Both the HEX (42–94%) and LEX (31.3–51.7%) groups showed increases in 1-RM (p < 0.01). The HEX group showed decreases in resting heart rate (−4.0%), diastolic blood pressure (−3.2 mmHg (−4.2%)), and low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) (Ln ratio) (p < 0.05). Post-study, the HEX group had higher HF (Ln ms2) than the CON, adjusted for pre-study value and age (p < 0.05). Post-study, the supine–standing ratio (SSR) of LFn (normalized unit) in the HEX group was greater than that in the LEX and CON groups, while the SSR of LF/HF in the HEX group was greater than the CON (p < 0.05). In conclusion, high-intensity RT can improve resting heart rate and HRV by enhancing cardiac vagal control. High-intensity RT might also improve the orthostatic response in terms of HRV. High intensity RT might assist ANS modification and could perhaps decrease the risks of cardiovascular disease and orthostatic intolerance.

Effects of High Frequency Resistance Training on RNA Expression Related to Inflammation: A Case Report

BACKGROUNDResistance training (RT) is the main modality of exercise used to induce hypertrophic and neuromuscular adaptations. RT done at high intensities (HI‐RT) is also capable of inducing epigenetic modifications leading to altered protein expression. HI‐RT increases protein expression of many enzymes that play key roles in disease prevention and treatment. Inflammation is one pathology that is associated with many disease states that can be altered by the effects of HI‐RT. Both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines are upregulated after a bout of exercise. Long term training leads to increases in anti‐inflammatory cytokines such as muscle‐derived interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). Current recommendations state that each muscle group should be exercised 2‐3 nonconsecutive days per week to allow time for recovery. HI‐RT protocols including training much higher training volumes and frequencies have been used by advanced athletes for decades, the effects of these protocols on health outcomes are not reflected in the literature.STUDY OBJECTIVEThe objective of this case report is to determine the effects of high‐frequency and high‐volume HI‐RT on RNA expression linked to inflammatory cytokines.HYPOTHESISIt is hypothesized that both the pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines will be upregulated following a high‐frequency high‐volume HI‐RT program due to increased muscle damage and macrophage infiltration.METHODSThe participant (N = 1; 24 years; 192 cm; 107.7 kg; 25.6% body fat) had leg circumference measured at 50% of the length of the femur. Then, a muscle biopsy was performed on the right leg vastus lateralis (VL). Muscle samples were stored at ‐80°C for later analysis. The participant completed a high‐frequency, high‐volume HI‐RT program for one month, which included barbell squats 5 days per week. After the training program was completed, leg circumference was measured again and a second biopsy of the right leg VL was taken. RNA was isolated from the samples for real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis of IL‐6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α).RESULTSThe participant experienced a 4 cm increase in thigh circumference (6.4%). Due to time constraints, RT‐PCR analysis was delayed. Analysis will be concluded prior to the conference meeting.CONCLUSIONSTo be updated after analysis is complete.

Two vs. One Resistance Exercise Sessions in One Day: Acute Effects on Recovery and Performance

ABSTRACT Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare the recovery response of one resistance training session (1TRS) vs. two resistance training sessions (2TRS) performed in 1 day, on upper body performance, muscle morphology and muscle soreness in trained men. Methods: Twenty-four resistance trained men were randomly assigned into a 1TRS group (N = 12; age = 25.0 ± 2.4 years; body mass = 87.6 ± 14.0 kg; height = 177.1 ± 4.9 cm) or into a 2TRS group (N = 10; age = 24.4 ± 1.6 years; body mass = 81.1 ± 5.6 kg; height = 176.6 ± 6.7 cm). 1TRS performed one training session involving eight sets of 10 reps at 70% of 1RM at the bench press, while 2TRS group divided the same training volume in two workouts, with a recovery time of 4 hr. Performance [bench press throw power (BTP) and isometric bench press (IBP)] and muscle thickness of pectoralis major (PECMT) were assessed at baseline (BL), 15-min, 24-hr and 48-hr post-exercise. Results:Training intensity was significantly higher in 2TRS compared to 1TRS (p < .001). Faster recovery rates were detected for BTP (p = .039) and PECMT (p = .05) in 2TRS compared to 1TRS. Both BTP and PECMT were significantly more affected (p < .05) in 1TRS than in 2TRS at 24 h. Conclusions:Results indicate that the recovery process may be accelerated by splitting a high resistance training volume into two different training sessions performed in 1 day.

What Is the Optimal Strength Training Load to Improve Swimming Performance? A Randomized Trial of Male Competitive Swimmers.

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of high, moderate, and low resistance training volume-load of maximum strength training on muscle strength and swimming performance in competitive swimmers. Thirty-three male swimmers were randomly allocated to high (age = 16.5 ± 0.30 years), moderate (age = 16.1 ± 0.32 years) and a low resistance training volume-load group (age = 15.9 ± 0.31). This study was carried out in mid-season (January to March). Pre and post strength (e.g., repetition maximum [1RM] leg extension and bench press tests), swimming (25, 50 m front-crawl), start (speed, time, distance) and turn (time of turn) performance tests were conducted. Our findings revealed a large main effect of time for 1RM bench press: d = 1.38; 1RM leg extension: d = 1.55, and for 25 (d = 1.12), and 50 m (d = 1.97) front-crawl, similarly for start and turn performance (d = 1.28–1.46). However, no significant Group × Time interactions were shown in all strength swimming performances, start and turn tests (p > 0.05). In conclusion, low training loads have been shown to elicit the same results as moderate, and high training loads protocol. Therefore, this study shows evidence that the addition of low training volume-loads as a regular part of a maximal strength training regime will elicit improvements in strength and swimming performance.

Postoperative Use of Blood Flow Restriction in Orthopedics.

Blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy is being used more frequently for rehabilitation from orthopedic injuries. Several physiologic mechanisms of action, at local and systemic levels, have been proposed. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of BFR training in healthy athletes; however, limited clinical data exist supporting the use of BFR after surgery. Given that BFR training may facilitate muscle development using low-load resistance exercises, it offers a unique advantage for the post-surgical patient who cannot tolerate traditional high resistance training. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(6):e694-e698.].

Effects Of Equal-volume Resistance Training With Different Intensity On Muscle Quality In Prediabetes Elders.

Aging is accompanied by a progressive decline in skeletal muscle system. These problems could increase the risks of chronic diseases, falls, and mortality. Resistance training (RT) is an effective strategy to enhance muscle strength, mass, and quality in older populations. However, few studies have examined the influence of different resistance training intensity on skeletal muscle system in prediabetes elders. PURPOSE: The present study is to investigate the effects of high-intensity versus low-intensity RT on muscle strength, body composition, muscle quality, and functional capacity in older adults with prediabetes. METHODS: Twenty-five prediabetes elders (67 ± 4 yrs) were randomized into 1 of 2 groups: high intensity RT (HIGH, 3 × 8 × 80% of 1RM, n = 13) and low intensity RT (LOW, 3 × 16 × 40% of 1RM, n = 12). The 8-week RT program performed 3d·wk-1, using 8 exercises for the whole body. Anthropometric, muscle strength, body composition, muscle quality, and functional capacity were measured pre- and post-training. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed in body composition in both groups (p > 0.05). Both groups presented significant improvement for functional capacity (grip strength, time up and go test and 30-second chair stand; p < 0.05) with no difference between groups (p > 0.05). The HIGH showed significant improvements in muscle strength compared with the LOW (p < 0.05) for total 1RM (HIGH = 22.9%; LOW = 15%), seated row 1RM (HIGH = 24.2%; LOW = 9.9%), back extension 1RM (HIGH = 29%; LOW = 17.5%), leg curl 1RM (HIGH = 22.3%; LOW = 13.7%), leg press 1RM (HIGH = 20.4%; LOW = 11.6%), total muscle quality (HIGH = 21.3%; LOW = 11.8%), upper muscle quality (HIGH = 22.6%; LOW = 12.8%), and lower muscle quality (HIGH = 21.8%; LOW = 11.2%). CONCLUSION: These results suggest that both HIGH and LOW, characterized by the same training volume, improve functional capacity and maintain body composition, whereas HIGH is superior for enhancing muscle strength and muscle quality in older adults with prediabetes.

Exercising for Insulin Sensitivity - Is There a Mechanistic Relationship With Quantitative Changes in Skeletal Muscle Mass?

Skeletal muscle (SM) tissue has been repetitively shown to play a major role in whole-body glucose homeostasis and overall metabolic health. Hence, SM hypertrophy through resistance training (RT) has been suggested to be favorable to glucose homeostasis in different populations, from young healthy to type 2 diabetic (T2D) individuals. While RT has been shown to contribute to improved metabolic health, including insulin sensitivity surrogates, in multiple studies, a universal understanding of a mechanistic explanation is currently lacking. Furthermore, exercised-improved glucose homeostasis and quantitative changes of SM mass have been hypothesized to be concurrent but not necessarily causally associated. With a straightforward focus on exercise interventions, this narrative review aims to highlight the current level of evidence of the impact of SM hypertrophy on glucose homeostasis, as well various mechanisms that are likely to explain those effects. These mechanistic insights could provide a strengthened rationale for future research assessing alternative RT strategies to the current classical modalities, such as low-load, high repetition RT or high-volume circuit-style RT, in metabolically impaired populations.

Long Term Concurrent Heat Stress does not Improve upon Performance Gains by Resistance Training

Natural performance enhancement, muscle hypertrophy and muscle rehabilitation on an expedited timeframe is highly coveted in sports and recreational fitness industries. Some studies have indicated that heat stress can improve upon muscle hypertrophy when used in combination with resistance training (RT), while some have shown no changes. Improvements in performance aspects such as strength, speed and agility in response to long term RT are well established, however the additive effects of heat stress on performance enhancements by RT has only been sparsely investigated. We therefore investigated the effects of full body heat stress applied concurrently during high intensity RT on muscle mass, strength, speed, agility and force in males. A cohort (n=18) of recreationally active, anthropometrically matched males were assigned in to two groups, HEAT (n=8, age= 23.3 ±.3.1, body mass (BM) = 75.6 ± 14.5kg, height = 175.6 ± 8.8 cm) and CON (n=10, age= 21.0 ± 2.7, BM = 76.0 ± 11.3kg, height = 177.2 ± 9.6 cm). Each group undertook an identical, 10 week, full body RT program three days a week with a rest day in between. The control group trained in thermoneutral conditions (23°C, RH 25%), while the HEAT group trained in a climate chamber at 40°C, RH 30%. Strength (1RM leg and bench press via maximal repetition test), speed (5 and 10 m sprint time), agility (T-test), force (peak force during squat jump and ballistic push up) as well as body composition (DXA scan) were assessed at pre intervention, at week five and post intervention. Core temperature, HEAT (average peak temperature =38.18 ± 0.27 °C) and CON (37.97 ± 0.32 °C), as well as muscle temperature (at a depth of 3.5 cm in the vastus lateralis), HEAT (36.79 ± 1.55 °C) and CON (35.94 ± 1.51 °C) were also measured. Leg press 1 RM increased from pre intervention to post in both CON (50.25 ± 13.99 kg, p<0.05) and HEAT (32.75 ± 5.89 kg, p<0.05) while bench press 1RM showed no improvement. However, the relative strength (1RM divided by total muscle mass) improved only in bench press in both groups from pre intervention to post with CON (0.12 ± 0.009 kg.kg MM-1, p<0.05) and HEAT (0.06 ± 0.008 kg.kg MM-1) with relative leg press strength showing no improvement. Agility improved in the HEAT group at five weeks (0.3 s ± 0.16 s, p<0.05), however it was not different from pre intervention at post intervention. Agility did not improve in the CON group. No improvements were observed in 5m or 10m sprint time, or peak force generated in squat jump or ballistic push up in either group. Total upper body muscle mass increased in each group at post intervention, CON (1507.0 g ± 293.1 g, p<0.05), HEAT (806.6 g ± 213.9 g p<0.05) along with total muscle mass, CON (1760.8 g ± 306.4 g p<0.05) and HEAT (971.0 g ± 335.1 g p<0.05). Lower body muscle mass did not increase in either group. Total fat mass did not alter in either group pre to post intervention. These results indicate that, overall, heat stress applied concurrently with long term RT does not improve upon performance gains.

The effectiveness of blood-flow restricted resistance training in the musculoskeletal rehabilitation of patients with lower limb disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of low-load Resistance Training (RT) with or without Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) compared with conventional RT on muscle strength in open and closed kinetic chains, muscle volume and pain in individuals with orthopaedic impairments. Data sources: Searches were conducted in the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane databases, including the reference lists of randomised controlled trials (RCT’s) up to January 2021. Review method: An independent reviewer extracted study characteristics, orthopaedic indications, exercise data and outcome measures. The primary outcome was muscle strength of the lower limb. Secondary outcomes were muscle volume and pain. Study quality and reporting was assessed using the TESTEX scale. Results: A total of 10 RCTs with 386 subjects (39.2 ± 17.1 years) were included in the analysis to compare low-load RT with BFR and high or low-load RT without BFR. The meta-analysis showed no significant superior effects of low-load resistance training with BFR regarding leg muscle strength in open and closed kinetic chains, muscle volume or pain compared with high or low-load RT without BFR in subjects with lower limb impairments. Conclusion: Low-load RT with BFR leads to changes in muscle strength, muscle volume and pain in musculoskeletal rehabilitation that are comparable to conventional RT. This appears to be independent of strength testing in open or closed kinetic chains.

Use of low volume, high effort resistance training to manage blood pressure in hypertensive patients inside a public hospital: a proof of concept study.

Physical exercise has been shown to have an important role in the prevention and treatment of arterial hypertension. However, the general exercise recommendations are time consuming, which might be detrimental to exercise adoption. Based on this, minimal doses of exercise have been suggested as an alternative approach and this report investigates the feasibility and effects of low volume and high effort resistance training for hypertensive patients in a hospital setting. This is a pilot non-randomized prospective study where 15 sedentary hypertensive patients (11 women and 4 men) performed 24 resistance training sessions over 12 weeks at a public hospital. The resistance training sessions consisted of two sets of four exercises, with a rest interval of two minutes between sets. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured 10 minutes before and 10 minutes after each training. No injuries or intercurrence were reported during the study. SBP decreased significantly when compared the first and last sessions, when the measures were performed at rest (152 ± 16 mmHg vs. 122 ± 9 mmHg vs, p<0.05), and after (137 ± 13 mmHg vs. 115 ± 5 mmHg, p<0.05) the resistance training session. Similarly, DBP also decreased significantly when the values from the last session were compared with the first session, when measured at rest (83 ± 14 mmHg vs 73 ± 9 mmHg, p<0.05). Low volume and high effort resistance training seems to be a feasible non-pharmacological strategy to help controlling blood pressure in hypertensive patients within a hospital.

Use of low volume, high effort resistance training to manage blood pressure in hypertensive patients inside a public hospital: a proof of concept study

Physical exercise has been shown to have an important role in the prevention and treatment of arterial hypertension. However, the general exercise recommendations are time consuming, which might be detrimental to exercise adoption. Based on this, minimal doses of exercise have been suggested as an alternative approach and this report investigates the feasibility and effects of low volume and high effort resistance training for hypertensive patients in a hospital setting. This is a pilot non-randomized prospective study where 15 sedentary hypertensive patients (11 women and 4 men) performed 24 resistance training sessions over 12 weeks at a public hospital. The resistance training sessions consisted of two sets of four exercises, with a rest interval of two minutes between sets. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were measured 10 minutes before and 10 minutes after each training. No injuries or intercurrence were reported during the study. SBP decreased significantly when compared the first and last sessions, when the measures were performed at rest (152 ± 16 mmHg vs. 122 ± 9 mmHg vs, p&lt;0.05), and after (137 ± 13 mmHg vs. 115 ± 5 mmHg, p&lt;0.05) the resistance training session. Similarly, DBP also decreased significantly when the values from the last session were compared with the first session, when measured at rest (83 ± 14 mmHg vs 73 ± 9 mmHg, p&lt;0.05). Low volume and high effort resistance training seems to be a feasible non-pharmacological strategy to help controlling blood pressure in hypertensive patients within a hospital.

The Effect Of Continuous Energy Restriction Vs Intermittent Fasting, With Resistance Training, On Lean Mass

PURPOSE: To determine if two energy restricted diets (continuous energy restriction (CER) and 5:2 intermittent fasting (IF)) combined with resistance training (RT) results in lean body mass (LBM) retention while reducing bodyweight. METHODS: Thirty-four young, untrained males and females were randomised to undertake the following diets for 12 weeks: CER (consume 80% of estimated energy requirements (EER) every day), or IF (consume approximately 30% of EER twice per week on fast days and 100% of EER every other day). Fast days included meals of protein shakes, a soup and vegetables. Both groups aimed to be isocaloric with an average energy restriction of 20% EER, and isonitrogenous consuming an average protein intake of 1.5 grams per kilogram of bodyweight per day. Both groups completed 2 supervised RT sessions and 1 unsupervised workout per week. The IF group completed their exercise on non-fast days. Body composition was assessed by dual x-ray absorptiometry. Data was analysed using an intention-to-treat linear mixed model, assuming AR(1) dependence across time. In addition, a change analysis was conducted for participants who completed both the baseline and 12 week assessments. RESULTS: For females, bodyweight was significantly reduced (mean decrease 3.1%, p=0.009), and LBM significantly increased (mean increase 5.8%, p<0.001), with no difference observed between diets. Similarly for men, there was no significant diet effect on bodyweight; both groups experienced an overall reduction of 6.3% (p<0.001). Combined, men in both diet groups experienced a significant increase in LBM (mean increase 1.4%, p=0.021), however there was a trend towards a greater increase in LBM in the IF compared to the CER group (mean increase CER = 0.7%, IF = 2.0%). CONCLUSIONS: Across both diet groups, males and females experienced a significant reduction in bodyweight while, on average, increasing LBM. Neither diet was more effective for bodyweight reduction, however there was a trend towards greater LBM accrual in IF compared to CER males. Gender specific responses to the intervention were evident, with a greater increase in LBM for females. Moderate energy restriction with high protein intake and RT can lead to concomitant weight loss and LBM accrual.

Effects Of High Intensity Resistance Training Protocols On Cardiovascular Parameters In Hypertensive Women

Establishing an ideal resistance training (RT) protocol for hypertensive individuals has been a challenging task, given the many variables that should be considered in these protocols. In general, the protocols established for hypertensive individuals involve the use of lower loads and a higher number of repetitions. However, recent evidence has shown that this approach might generate negative effects on cardiovascular parameters, especially in the short term, which may indicate a potential risk to participants. In contrast, the use of higher loads but with a reduced number of repetitions does not seem to cause such overload to the cardiovascular system and have been shown to promote comparable gains in variables such as strength, body composition, balance and quality of life. PURPOSE: Analyze the effects of different resistance training protocols with lower and higher loads on cardiovascular parameters in hypertensive women. METHODS: A randomized crossover design clinical trial was conducted with 20 postmenopausal hypertensive women who underwent a control session and two RT protocols involving 6 and 15 repetition maximum (RM). The cardiovascular variables were collected pre, immediately post, 1 h post, and 24 h post each protocol. Repeated-measures ANOVA was used. RESULTS: The HR indices were higher in 15RM protocol immediately and 1 hour after the exercise (86.55±12.81; 75.96±11.51) when compared with control (67.14±7.38; 66.01±8.88) and 6RM (78.56±9.73; 71.29±9.40) sessions (p<0.05). The rate-pressure product indices that represent the myocardial workload also were higher in 15RM protocol immediately (12089.59±3022.77) and persisted in 1 hour after (9947.44±2184.58) the exercise when compared with control (8830.83±1394.09; 8800.71±1498.79) and 6RM (11002.58±1986.82; 9226.33±1604.68) sessions (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Performing high intensity RT with lower loads and a higher number of repetitions seems to promote higher heart rate and rate-pressure product, which may be related to an increased cardiovascular stress. Although the 6RM protocol also raises these parameters immediately after, these changes were not evident within 1 hour and may serve as an indication that the use of high loads may be safe to the cardiovascular system in hypertensive individuals.