Increase In 1RM Research Articles

Effects of Single Vs. Multiple Sets during 10 Weeks of Water-based Resistance Training on Neuromuscular Adaptations in Young Women.

This study aims to analyze the neuromuscular adaptations of sedentary young women between water-based resistance training performed with single and multiple sets. 66 women (24.72±4.33 years old) were randomly divided into 2 training groups: SS (single set of 30 s) and MS (3 sets of 30 s). Both groups performed 2 sessions per week for 10 weeks. One repetition maximal test (1RM), muscle endurance test (maximal repetitions at 60% 1RM) and muscle power test (squat and countermovement jump performance) were evaluated at pre- and post-training. To compare neuromuscular variables, a repeated measures ANOVA with a group factor (α=0.05) was used. Both groups showed significant increases in 1RM (SS: 14.59%; MS 14.86%), in 60% 1RM (SS: 31.23%; MS: 37.37%), in SJ (SS: 10.9%; MS: 8.3%) and CMJ (SS: 9.1%; MS: 6.8%), without difference between groups. There can be concluded that young and sedentary women presented improvements in different expressions of strength after 10 weeks of training, regardless the volume of training.

Changes In Muscle Activation Patterns And Kinematics While Learning The Bilateral Barbell Squat

While the barbell squat has been subjected to many biomechanical analyses, it is not known how the kinematics and muscle activation profiles will change as an individual learns how to perform the movement. Previous work using different motion patterns have noted decreased variability in movement patterns between repetitions as an individual learns a new movement pattern. PURPOSE: The goal of this work was to document changes in variability of kinematic and muscle activity patterns while individuals learn to perform a standard bilateral barbell squat. METHODS: Ten university age females with no prior barbell squatting experience were recruited. The participants attended four weekly sessions where they performed 4 sets of 10 squats at 50% of their one-repetition maximum (1RM) while receiving feedback on their squatting technique. During the squats the participants had their motion captured in the sagittal plane using a high speed video camera and electromyography (EMG) was recorded from 8 lower-limb muscles that were involved in the squatting motion from the right lower-limb. Prior to the first session and at the end of the last session a 1RM test was performed to determine the maximum capacity for the barbell squat. RESULTS: Despite using a load where a strength adaptation would not be expected, the participants demonstrated a significant increase in 1RM across the study (50.1±8.6 kg vs 57.1 ± 10.0 kg; p < 0.05). Interestingly, most changes in kinematic variability occurred at the ankle joint, where increased variability was observed across the 4 sessions (p < 0.05). It was also observed that the participants were squatting deeper as sessions progressed, as measured by the angle of the thigh segment (p < 0.05). Rectus Femoris (RF) showed decreased variability across the sessions (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Although an increase in 1RM was found, this improvement is likely due to changes in technique rather than strength. Our findings that the ankle increased in variability may be supported by the uncontrolled manifold hypothesis, which states since attentional focus was on the hips in this study (due to the nature of our feedback), that variability may increase in other areas. Changes in muscle activity of RF may indicate that the participants became more adept at coordinating the hip and knee joints during the squat.

The Effect of Cuff Width on Muscle Adaptations after Blood Flow Restriction Training.

Blood flow restriction in combination with low-load resistance training has been shown to increase muscle size and strength; however, the influence of cuff width on these adaptations is unknown. The objective of this study is to determine the influence of different cuff widths on muscle size and strength, and also investigate whether a wider cuff would result in less adaptation compared with a narrow cuff when inflated to the same relative pressure (80% arterial occlusion pressure). Eleven physically active males had their arms randomly divided into two separate conditions: low-load blood flow restriction exercise with a narrow cuff (BFR + N, 5 cm) and low-load blood flow restriction exercise with a wide cuff (BFR + W, 10 cm). All participants underwent 12 wk of unilateral elbow flexion at 20% of their one-repetition maximum (1RM). The elbow flexion strength (1RM), elbow flexor muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), arterial blood flow, training volume, RPE, and rating of perceived pain were assessed before and after training. Elbow flexion 1RM and CSA significantly increased in both conditions (BFR + N = 13.5% and 9% vs BFR + W = 11.9% and 11.2%, respectively). The arterial blood flow was significantly reduced when 80% of the arterial occlusion pressure was applied in both conditions (BFR + N = 61.2% and BFR + W = 63.5%). There were no significant differences in the training volume, RPE, or rating of perceived pain between conditions (P > 0.05). We wish to suggest that, regardless of cuff width, both protocols produced similar increases in 1RM and elbow flexor muscle CSA, and these responses may be related to the similar training volume and/or similar reductions in arterial blood flow produced when both cuffs were inflated to the same relative pressure.

EFFECT OF NEUROMUSCULAR ELECTRICAL STIMULATION ON QUADRICEPS MUSCLE STRENGTH AND SIX MINUTE WALK DISTANCE IN SPUTUM NEGATIVE PULMONARY TUBERCULOSIS.

Background:&nbsp;Pulmonary Tuberculosis (PTB) leads to many physical impairements which can affect the daily physical tasks. Giving neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to quadriceps muscle can improve the functional status without causing fatigue and compromising oxygen status. The aim of the study was to study the effect of NMES on quadriceps muscle strength and six minute walk distance in Pulmonary tuberculosis.Method:&nbsp;This was an interventional based study conducted in K.J.Somaiya Medical Hospital. 26 patients suffering from pulmunary tuberculosis were taken in the study. Strength assessment of quadriceps muscle was assessed by 1RM and six minute walk distance was assessed by six minute walk test. NMES is given to quadriceps muscles bilaterally for continuous 10 sessions in 11 days.Result:&nbsp;Wilcoxon signed rank test, ‘t' test and mann whitney test were done to analyse the data. There was significant increase in 1RM (1.808kgs-&gt;2.885kgs) and 6MWD (405.23m-&gt;493.65m) post NMES training.Conclusion:&nbsp;Therefore the study performed suggest that NMES training performed prior to endurance training is useful for strengthening peripheral muscles, which in turn may augment gains in body weight and improves quality of life, further reductions in ventilation requirements during exercise. Despite the ability to cure tuberculosis, there remains a significant impact on the patient’s health status in physical, psychological and social aspects. The study showed significant improvement by giving NMES in 6MWD and 1RM.

Effects Of Chronic Hypohydration On Maximal Strength And Muscular Growth During A 10-week Weight Training Program

Even small degree of hypohydration seems to have a detrimental effect on endurance exercise performance, hypohydration does not affect strength until greater degree of hypohydration occurs. However, no study has ever examined the effect of hydration state on the adaptations during a strength training program. PURPOSE: To examine the effect of chronic hypohydration during a 10-week weight training program on strength performance and muscular development. METHODS: Nineteen healthy recreationally active males, completed a fluid intake questionnaire to identify the high and low drinkers. The high drinkers selected in the euhydrated (EUH) group (N=9, age: 23.2±3.6 y, body mass: 78.5±6.8 kg, height: 1.79±0.05 m, body fat: 15.3±3.1%) and the low drinkers in the hypohydrated (HYH) group (N=10, age: 24.7±6.1 y, body mass: 71.3±7.4 kg, height: 1.78±0.05 m, body fat: 14±8.2%). Both groups completed a three times a week leg resistance training program for 10 weeks. Prior (Pre) and following (Post) the 10-w training program, vertical jump and direct one repetition max (1RM) was measured in leg press, while volunteers were well hydrated. Hydration status of the volunteers was monitored via measurement of urine osmolality collected prior to eachtraining session and a weekly 24-h urine sample. Muscle mass was measured with dual x-ray absorptiometry. RESULTS: Average pre-exercise urine osmolality was 357±126 and 956±47mmol/kg for EUH and HYH groups, respectively. Mean 24-h weekly osmolality was 295±81 and 917±109mmol/kg for EUH and HYH groups, respectively. Pre1RM was 340±77 kg and 282±46 kg for EUH and HYH (P=0.113), respectively. Post 1RM was 470±66 kg and 385±40 kg for EUH and HYH (P=0.007), respectively. The increase in 1RM was greater in the EYH group (130± 20 kg) than in HUH (104±24 kg; P= 0.028). No differences were found in vertical jump or muscle growth. CONCLUSION: The data indicated that chronic hypohydration appears to attenuate maximal strength without a significant effect on muscular growth.

Is repetition failure critical for the development of muscle hypertrophy and strength?

This investigation sought to determine the effect of resistance training to failure on functional, structural and neural elbow flexor muscle adaptation. Twenty-eight males completed a 4-week familiarization period and were then counterbalanced on the basis of responsiveness across; non-failure rapid shortening (RS; rapid concentric, 2 s eccentric), non-failure stretch-shortening (SSC; rapid concentric, rapid eccentric), and failure control (C, 2 s concentric, 2 s eccentric), for a 12-week unilateral elbow flexor resistance training regimen, 3 × week using 85% of one repetition maximum (1RM). 1RM, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), muscle cross-sectional area (CSA), and muscle activation (EMG(RMS)) of the agonist, antagonist, and stabilizer muscles were assessed before and after the 12-week training period. The average number of repetitions per set was significantly lower in RS 4.2 [confidence interval (CI): 4.2, 4.3] and SSC 4.2 (CI: 4.2, 4.3) compared with C 6.1 (CI: 5.8, 6.4). A significant increase in 1RM (30.5%), MVC (13.3%), CSA (11.4%), and agonist EMG(RMS) (22.1%) was observed; however, no between-group differences were detected. In contrast, antagonist EMG(RMS) increased significantly in SSC (40.5%) and C (23.3%), but decreased in RS (13.5%). Similar adaptations across the three resistance training regimen suggest repetition failure is not critical to elicit significant neural and structural changes to skeletal muscle.

A single set of exhaustive exercise before resistance training improves muscular performance in young men.

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of an additional set of exhaustive exercise before traditional hypertrophic training on quadriceps muscle performance in young men. Subjects performed maximal dynamic strength (1RM), local muscular endurance (LME), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests before and after an 8-week hypertrophic training program using a knee extensor machine. After baseline testing, the subjects were divided into 3 groups: untrained control, traditional training (TR), and prior exhaustive training (PE). Both the TR and PE groups trained using the same training protocol (2 days week(-1); 3 sets of 8-12 repetitions at 75 % of 1RM); the only difference was that the PE group performed an additional set of exhaustive exercise at 20 % of 1RM before each training session. After 8 weeks, the PE group experienced a greater (P < 0.05) increase in 1RM, cross-sectional area, and LME than the TR group. Additionally, no changes (P > 0.05) in daily dietary intake were observed between groups. These results suggest that the inclusion of a single set of exhaustive exercise at 20 % of 1RM before traditional hypertrophic training can be a suitable strategy for inducing additional beneficial effects on quadriceps strength, hypertrophy, and endurance in young men.

Strength Training Adaptations After Cold-Water Immersion

Several studies analyzed the effectiveness of cold-water immersion (CWI) to support recovery after strenuous exercise, but the overall results seem to be conflicting. Most of these studies analyzed only short-term recovery effects, whereas the adaptational aspect has been widely neglected. Therefore, we analyzed the effects of repeated cooling after training sessions (CWI) on adaptations to strength training. Seventeen trained male students volunteered the study. After a 2-week familiarization period, a pretest (T1) of 1 repetition maximum (RM) and 12RM was conducted followed by the 5-week strength training period (within-subject design). After the posttest (T2) and a 2-week detraining period, a retention test (T3) was carried out. Directly after each training session, CWI was applied for 1 randomly assigned leg. Cooling consisted of 3 4-minute intervals with a 30-second rest period. The other leg was not cooled. A significant increase in 1RM and 12RM from baseline to T2 and T3 (p < 0.001), respectively, and a further significant increase in 12RM from T2 to T3 (p ≤ 0.05) were observed. In addition, a tendency for a large leg effect with higher values for the "control leg" in both parameters (p = 0.08 each) and a moderate time × leg interaction in favor of the control leg was found (1RM: p = 0.11; 12RM: p = 0.09). The percentage change differences between both conditions were 1.6% for the increase in 1RM from T1 to T2 and 2.0% from T1 to T3 in favor of the control leg. Long-term strength training adaptations in trained subjects can be negatively affected by CWI. However, effects were small, and the practical relevance relative to possible recovery effects needs to be considered in a sports practical setting.

Creatine supplementation prevents acute strength loss induced by concurrent exercise.

To investigate the effect of creatine (CR) supplementation on the acute interference induced by aerobic exercise on subsequent maximum dynamic strength (1RM) and strength endurance (SE, total number of repetitions) performance. Thirty-two recreationally strength-trained men were submitted to a graded exercise test to determine maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max: 41.56 ± 5.24 ml kg(-1) min(-1)), anaerobic threshold velocity (ATv: 8.3 ± 1.18 km h(-1)), and baseline performance (control) on the 1RM and SE (4 × 80 % 1RM to failure) tests. After the control tests, participants were randomly assigned to either a CR (20 g day(-1) for 7 days followed by 5 g day(-1) throughout the study) or a placebo (PL-dextrose) group, and then completed 4 experimental sessions, consisting of a 5-km run on a treadmill either continuously (90 % ATv) or intermittently (1:1 min at vVO2max) followed by either a leg- or bench-press SE/1RM test. CR was able to maintain the leg-press SE performance after the intermittent aerobic exercise when compared with C (p > 0.05). On the other hand, the PL group showed a significant decrease in leg-press SE (p ≤ 0.05). CR supplementation significantly increased bench-press SE after both aerobic exercise modes, while the bench-press SE was not affected by either mode of aerobic exercise in the PL group. Although small increases in 1RM were observed after either continuous (bench press and leg press) or intermittent (bench press) aerobic exercise in the CR group, they were within the range of variability of the measurement. The PL group only maintained their 1RM. In conclusion, the acute interference effect on strength performance observed in concurrent exercise may be counteracted by CR supplementation.

Impact of External Resistance and Maximal Effort on Force-Velocity Characteristics of the Knee Extensors During Strengthening Exercise

It remains controversial whether maximal effort attained by high external resistance is required to optimize muscle adaptation to strengthening exercise. Here, we compared different training protocols reaching maximal effort with either high-resistance (HImax, 80% of 1-repetition maximum [1RM]) or low-resistance (LOmax, ≤40% 1RM). Thirty-six young volunteers were randomly assigned to 9 weeks of leg extension training at either HImax (1 set of 10-12 repetitions at 80% 1RM), LO (1 set of 10-12 repetitions at 40% 1RM, no maximal effort), or LOmax (1 set of 10-12 repetitions at 40% 1RM, preceded [no rest] by 60 repetitions at 20-25% 1RM). Knee extension 1RM was measured preintervention and postintervention and before the 7th, 13th, and 19th training sessions. Preintervention and postintervention, knee extensor static (PTstat) and dynamic (PTdyn) peak torque, maximal work (MW), and speed of movement at 20% (S20), 40% (S40), and 60% (S60) of PTstat were recorded with a Biodex dynamometer. All the groups showed a significant increase in 1RM, with a greater improvement in HImax from the 13th session on (p < 0.05). The HImax was the only group that significantly increased PTstat (+7.4 ± 8.1%, p = 0.01). The LOmax showed a significantly greater increase in S20 (+6.0 ± 3.2%), PTdyn (+9.8 ± 5.6%), and MW (+15.1 ± 10.6%) than both HImax and LO (p = 0.044 for S20, p = 0.030 for PTdyn, p = 0.025 for MW) and was the only group that increased in S40 (+7.7 ± 9.7%, p = 0.032). In conclusion, significant differences between HImax and LOmax on force-velocity characteristics of the knee extensors were found, although maximal effort was achieved in both training regimens. Thus, LOmax may not be considered as a replacement for HImax but rather as an alternative with different training-specific adaptations.

The Effect of Whole Body Vibration Exercise on Muscle Activity Change in Healthy Young Women

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of whole body vibration(WBV) on muscle activity alteration. Ten healthy young women subjects(age 21±1.3 years, height 160±2.1 cm and weight 52±4.6 kg) were selected. Subjects performed four different squat position exercises on a vibration platform(VM-10, Sonicworld). A vibration stimulus is 25Hz and intensity is 40. EMG signals measured by(Rectus Femoris, Vastus Lateralis, Vastus Intermedius, Vastus Medius) leg muscles were analyzed. The exercise was performed both with 10 seconds WBV and without 10 seconds WBV. In the result, EMG signals related to WBV were significantly higher compared with non-vibration stimulus in all leg muscles and squat position exercises(on average HS +24.8%, LS +23.1%, OS +20.1%, HU&HS +17.9%). In conclusion, WBV would have an effect on increasing activation of the thigh muscle. I. INTRODUCTION The acute increase in 1RM when Whole body vibration (WBV) is added to the exercise seems to be the result of greater muscle activation compared with that in the no-WBV condition, as seen by increased electromyography(EMG) activity(1). And WBV training has been observed to acutely increase the 1repetition maximum(1RM) in the coordinative demanding squat exercise(2). Thus, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of whole body vibration on muscle activation changes in healthy young women.

Effects of creatine supplementation on oxidative stress profile of athletes

BackgroundCreatine (Cr) supplementation has been widely used among athletes and physically active individuals. Secondary to its performance-enhancing ability, an increase in oxidative stress may occur, thus prompting concern about its use. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of Cr monohydrate supplementation and resistance training on muscle strength and oxidative stress profile in healthy athletes.MethodsA randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled method was used to assess twenty-six male elite Brazilian handball players divided into 3 groups: Cr monohydrate supplemented group (GC, N = 9), placebo group (GP, N = 9), no treatment group (COT, N = 8) for 32 days. All subjects underwent a resistance training program. Blood samples were drawn on 0 and 32 days post Cr supplementation to analyze the oxidative stress markers, thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS), total antioxidant status (TAS), and uric acid. Creatine phosphokinase, urea, and creatinine were also analyzed, as well. Fitness tests (1 repetition maximum - 1RM and muscle endurance) were performed on the bench press. Body weight and height, body fat percentage (by measuring skin folds) and upper muscular area were also evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA.ResultsOnly GC group showed increase in 1RM (54 ± 9 vs. 63 ± 10 kg; p = 0.0356) and uric acid (4.6 ± 1.0 vs. 7.4 ± 1.6 mg/dl; p = 0.025), with a decrease in TAS (1.11 ± 0.34 vs. 0.60 ± 0.19 mmol/l; p = 0.001). No differences (pre- vs. post-training) in TBARS, creatine phosphokinase, urea, creatinine, body weight and height, body fat percentage, or upper muscular area were observed in any group. When compared to COT, GC group showed greater decrease in TAS (−0.51 ± 0.36 vs. -0.02 ± 0.50 mmol/l; p = 0.0268), higher increase in 1RM (8.30 ± 2.26 vs. 5.29 ± 2.36 kg; p = 0.0209) and uric acid (2.77 ± 1.70 vs. 1.00 ± 1.03 mg/dl; p = 0.0276).ConclusionWe conclude that Cr monohydrate supplementation associated with a specific resistance program promoted a meaningful increase in muscle strength without inducing changes in body composition. The observed significant increase in uric acid and the decrease in TAS suggest that creatine supplementation, despite promoting acute effects on muscle strength improvement, might induce oxidative stress and decreases total antioxidant status of subjects.

Lower-Body Work Capacity and One-Repetition Maximum Squat Prediction in College Football Players

The purpose of this study was to assess lower-body muscular strength and work capacity after off-season resistance training and the efficacy of predicting maximal squat strength (1 repetition maximum [1RM]) from repetitions to fatigue. National Collegiate Athletic Association Division-II football players (n = 58) were divided into low-strength (LS, 1RM < 365 lb, n = 32) and high-strength (HS, 1RM ≥ 365 lb, n = 26) groups before training based on median 1RM squat performance. Maximal repetitions to failure (RTFs) were performed with a relative load of 70% of 1RM before training and 60, 70, 80, and 90% of 1RM after 12 weeks of a linear periodization resistance training program. As a team, 1RM squat (32 ± 27 lb), 70% RTF (4.5 ± 4.5 reps), and work capacity at 70% 1RM load (1,482 ± 1,181 lb reps) increased significantly after training. Likewise, training resulted in significant increases in 1RM, RTF at 70% 1RM, and work capacity (load × reps) in both LS (8 ± 33 lb, 3.9 ± 4.7 reps, 1,736 ± 1,521 lb reps, respectively) and HS (27 ± 21 lb, 4.9 ± 4.4 reps, 2,387 ± 1,767 lb reps, respectively), with no significant difference between groups. There was no relationship between the change in work capacity and the change in muscular strength for either the LS (r = 0.02) or HS (r = 0.06) group. Predicted 1RMs were best when RTFs were performed using 80% 1RM (5-17 RTFs), with an error of ±5% in 95% of the subjects. In conclusion, the changes in muscular strength associated with an off-season training program appear to have a positive influence on squat work capacity at 70% of 1RM and allow favorable prediction of 1RM using submaximal loads.

Impact of Testing Strategy on Expression of Upper-Body Work Capacity and One-Repetition Maximum Prediction after Resistance Training in College-Aged Men and Women

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of resistance training on upper-body muscular strength and the expression of work capacity and muscular endurance. In addition, a training-induced change in the relationship between muscular strength and endurance was assessed by testing changes in the accuracy of using endurance repetitions to predict 1 repetition maximum (1RM) bench press before and after training. College-aged men (n = 85) and women (n = 62) completed a 12-week linear periodization resistance training program. Before and after training, the subjects were assessed for 1RM and repetitions to fatigue (RTFs) with a submaximal load. After pretraining 1RM determination, the subjects were randomly assigned to perform RTFs at 65% 1RM (n = 74) or 90% 1RM (n = 73). Pretraining and posttraining RTFs were conducted at the same respective % 1RM. Work capacity was determined from repetition weight × RTF. After training, there was a significant increase in 1RM in both men (∼14%) and women (∼23%). Posttraining RTF was not different from pretraining RTF at 65 %1RM (18.2 ± 5.1 and 19.0 ± 6.0, respectively) but was significantly reduced in the 90% 1RM group (6.1 ± 3.6 vs. 4.5 ± 2.7, respectively). Likewise, there was a differential effect of training on the expression of work capacity, which increased in the 65 % 1RM group (123 ± 155 kg-reps) but decreased in the 90% 1RM group (-62 ± 208 kg-reps); the effect was independent of gender within each testing group. In conclusion, the changes in muscular strength associated with resistance training produced an increase in work capacity when tested with a 65 % 1RM load without a change in endurance. In contrast, both work capacity and endurance decreased when tested with 90% 1RM. Thus, the impact of strength training on work capacity and muscle endurance is specific to the load at which endurance testing is performed.

Effects of Two Different Half-Squat Training Programs on Fatigue During Repeated Cycling Sprints in Soccer Players

This study compared the effects of two different half-squat training programs on the repeated-sprint ability of soccer players during the preseason. Twenty male professional soccer players were divided into 2 groups: One group (S-group) performed 4 sets of 5 repetitions with 90% of their 1-repetition maximum (1RM), and the other group (H-group) performed 4 sets of 12 repetitions with 70% of 1RM, 3 times per week for 6 weeks, in addition to their common preseason training program. Repeated-sprint ability was assessed before and after training by 10 × 6-second cycle ergometer sprints separated by 24 seconds of passive recovery. Maximal half-squat strength increased significantly in both groups (p < 0.01), but this increase was significantly greater in the S-group compared with the H-group (17.3 ± 1.9 vs. 11.0 ± 1.9%, p < 0.05). Lean leg volume (LLV) increased only in the H-group. Total work over the 10 sprints improved in both groups after training, but this increase was significantly greater in the second half (8.9 ± 2.6%) compared with the first half of the sprint test (3.2 ± 1.7%) only in the S-group. Mean power output (MPO) expressed per liter of LLV was better maintained during the last 6 sprints posttraining only in the S-group, whereas there was no change in MPO per LLV in the H-group over the 10 sprints. These results suggest that resistance training with high loads is superior to a moderate-load program, because it increases strength without a change in muscle mass and also results in a greater improvement in repeated sprint ability. Therefore, resistance training with high loads may be preferable when the aim is to improve maximal strength and fatigue during sprinting in professional soccer players.

Effects of 3-month Combined Functional Training at an Adult Day-care Facility on Lower Extremity Muscle Strength and Gait Performance in Community-dwelling People with Chronic Hemiplegia

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of low-frequency combined functional training over a 3-month period on lower extremity muscle strength and gait performance in community-dwelling people with chronic post-stroke hemiplegia. [Subjects] The subjects were 23 individuals with chronic post-stroke hemiplegia, utilizing the services of an adult day-care facility. [Methods] All subjects performed functional training programs consisting of stretching, strengthening, postural balance training, and gait training once or twice a week for 3 months. Leg muscle strength measured using a leg press machine at one repetition maximum (1RM), comfortable gait speed (CGS), maximal gait speed (MGS), and the difference between MGS and CGS (ΔGS) were assessed before and after intervention. [Results] Comparison of each outcome before and after intervention revealed significant increases in 1RM, CGS, MGS, and ΔGS. The change rate of ΔGS was correlated only with that of MGS. [Conclusion] Three-month combined functional training was effective at enhancing lower extremity muscle strength and gait performance, and ΔGS was increased by enhancement of MGS in community-dwelling people with chronic post-stroke hemiplegia.

The Effects of Resistance Training Performed in Water on Muscle Strength in the Elderly

The purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of a program of resistance training in water-based exercises (RWE) with those of a program without resistance control in water-based exercises (WEs). Twenty-seven women (aged 60-74 years) were randomly assigned to the RWE group (n = 10), WE group (n = 10), or nontraining control (CON) group (n = 7). The RWE and WE groups trained classes with aerobic exercises and localized muscular resistance exercises for 50 minutes, twice a week for 12 weeks. For the RWE group, the program included 4 mesocycles of 3 weeks-respectively, 4 sets of 15 repetitions, 4 sets of 12 repetitions, 5 sets of 10 repetitions, and 5 sets of 8 repetitions-of shoulder horizontal flexion exercise at maximum speed, with the use of resistive equipment. For the WE group, the training was not periodized, and the resistance in the localized muscular exercises was not controlled. One repetition maximum (1RM) was measured on a pectoral fly machine at baseline and after the training period. The level of significance adopted was p ≤ 0.05. The results showed that the only significant increase in 1RM (10.89%, p < 0.001) occurred in the RWE group after training. In conclusion, these findings suggest that WEs with emphasis on resistance training in a periodized program can efficiently increase maximum strength in elderly women. Thus, it is suggested that the strategies used in WE programs be modified to offer suitable stimuli for the development of strength.

Bench Press Training Program with Attached Chains for Female Volleyball and Basketball Athletes

Attaching chains to barbells to increase strength and power has become popular for athletes; however, little scientific evidence supports this practice. The present purpose was to compare chain training to traditional training for the bench press. Women collegiate athletes in volleyball and basketball (N = 19) participated in a 16-session bench press program. They were matched into either a Traditional or a Chain training group by 1-repetition maximum (1RM). The Traditional group performed the bench press with conventional equipment, while the Chain group trained with attached chains (5% of weight). Analysis showed a significant increase in 1RM for both groups over 16 sessions, Traditional +11.8% and Chain +17.4%. The difference between the groups was not statistically significant, but suggests the women who trained with attached chains improved their bench press more than the Traditional group.

The effects of resistance training on muscle and body fat mass and muscle strength in type 2 diabetic women.

BackgroundOur goal was to investigate the effects of low intensity resistance training on body fat, muscle mass and strength, cardiovascular fitness, and insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetes.MethodsTwenty-eight overweight women with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned to a resistance training group (RG, n = 13) or a control group (CG, n = 15). RG performed resistance training using elastic bands, of which strength was equal to 40 to 50% of one repetition maximum (1RM), for three days per week. Each exercise consisted of three sets for 60 minutes. We assessed abdominal fat using computed tomography, muscle mass using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and muscle strength using Keiser's chest and leg press. Insulin sensitivity was measured using the insulin tolerance test, and aerobic capacity was expressed as oxygen uptake at the anaerobic threshold (AT-VO2) before and after the 12-week exercise program.ResultsThe age of participants was 56.4 ± 7.1 years, duration of diabetes was 5.9 ± 5.5 years, and BMI was 27.4 ± 2.5 kg/m2, without significant differences between two groups. During intervention, a greater increase in muscle mass and greater decreases in both total fat mass and abdominal fat were observed in RG compared to those of CG (P = 0.015, P = 0.011, P = 0.010, respectively). Increase in 1RM of upper and lower extremities was observed in the RG (P = 0.004, P = 0.040, respectively), without changes in AT-VO2 and insulin resistance in either group.ConclusionIn conclusion, the low intensity resistance training was effective in increasing muscle mass and strength and reducing total fat mass without change of insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic patients.

Chronic Effects of Different Between-Set Rest Durations on Muscle Strength in Nonresistance Trained Young Men

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of different between-set rest interval durations on muscle strength after 12 weeks of resistance training. After baseline tests, 34 nonresistance trained college-aged men were matched and randomly assigned to 2 groups. Both groups trained twice a week and performed the same exercises and the same work output with 2 sets of 8 to 12 repetitions until volitional fatigue. One group (n = 18, 21.4 +/- 3.2 yr; 73.8 +/- 14.0 kg; 175.9 +/- 7.8 cm) used short-rest intervals (SR) with a work rest ratio of approximately 1:3; the other (n = 16, 22.4 +/- 2.6 yr; 73.1 +/- 13.6 kg; 171.9 +/- 8.2 cm) used long-rest intervals (LR) with a work rest ratio of approximately 1:6. Leg press and bench press 1 repetition maximum (1RM) were measured at baseline and after the end of the training period. The increases in 1RM for bench press were 14.4 +/- 8.1% for the SR group and 10.5 +/- 6.4% for the LR group (p < 0.05). For the leg press, the increases were 17.5 +/- 9.2% with SR training and 17.8 +/- 12.3% for the LR group (p < 0.05). The results did not reveal significant differences between SR and LR for the bench press or leg press 1RM (p > 0.05). Our data suggest that gains in maximum strength in nontrained men are not dependent on the length of the rest interval between sets. Therefore, personal trainers and strength coaches can advise beginning lifters to use short rest intervals to make best use of their time in the weight room.