Vol 11, Issue 4

Influence Of Baseline Muscle Strength And Size Measures On Training Adaptations In Resistance-Trained Men

June 15, 2018 - By 

Authors

Gerald T. Mangine, Kennesaw State University
Adam M. Gonzalez, Hofstra University
Jeremy R. Townsend, Lipscomb University
Adam J. Wells, University of Central Florida
Kyle S. Beyer, University of Central Florida
Amelia A. Miramonti, University of Central Florida
Nicholas A. Ratamess, The College of New Jersey
Jeffrey R. Stout, University of Central Florida
Jay R. Hoffman, University of Central Florida
International Journal of Exercise Science 11(4): 198-213, 2018.
DOI: 10.70252/UGMJ3157

Abstract

The influence of baseline strength or muscle size on adaptations to training is not well-understood. Comparisons between novice and advanced lifters, and between stronger and weaker experienced-lifters, have produced conflicting results. This study examined the effect of baseline muscle strength and size on subsequent adaptations in resistance-trained individuals following a traditional high-volume, short-rest resistance training protocol. Fourteen resistance-trained men (24.0±2.7 y; 90.1±11.7 kg; 169.9±29.0 cm) completed pre-training (PRE) ultrasound measurements of muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) in the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), pectoralis major, and triceps brachii (TRI) prior to strength assessments (e.g., one-repetition maximum strength bench press and back-squat). Post-training (POST) assessments were completed following 8-wks (4 d∙wk-1) of resistance training. Comparisons were made between stronger (STR) and weaker (WKR) participants, and between larger (LGR) and smaller (SMR) participants, based upon PRE-muscle strength and size, respectively. When groups were based on upper-body strength, repeated measures analysis of variance indicated a significant group x time interaction where greater improvements in bench press strength were observed in WKR (12.5±8.6%, p = 0.013) compared to STR (1.3±5.4%, p=0.546). Within this comparison, STR also possessed more resistance training experience than WKR (mean difference=3.1 y, p=0.002). No other differences in experience or adaptations to training were observed. These data suggest that following a short-duration training program (8-weeks), baseline size and strength have little impact on performance gains in resistance-trained individuals who possess similar years of experience. However, when training experience is different, baseline strength may affect adaptations.

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