Strength, CSA specific tension changes in trained individuals in response to resistance training programs that are different in eccentric load
Date
1997
Authors
Brandenburg, Jason Peter
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare strength changes elicited by two different strength training programs of equal concentric loads but that differ in eccentric loads, on trained individuals. College males (21-29 years) were randomly assigned to either the conventional training group (CV)(n = 10, weight 81.6+/-5.9 kg, height 178.o+/-6.2 cm) or the supramaximal eccentric training group (SME) (n = 8, weight 80.4+/-2.8 kg, height 179.9+/-5.8 cm). Training of the forearm flexors and extensors was performed 2 to 3 times per week for 9 weeks. The CV group performed 4 sets of 10 repetitions to failure at a load equaling 75% of concentric lRM. The SME group performed 3 sets of 10 repetitions to failure at a concentric load of75% and an eccentric load of 110-120%.
Concentric lRM and eccentric muscle performance (number of reps performed at 130% concentric lRM) were measured at weeks 0, 3, 6, and 9 while specific tension and muscle CSA were measured at weeks 0 and 9. Significant (p<0.05) increases in forearm flexor and extensor concentric lRM and specific tension were observed in both training groups. Significantly greater gains in concentric lRM of the forearm extensors were found in the SME group in comparison to the CV group. Significant decrements in eccentric muscle performance was observed in the forearm flexors and extensors of both training groups.
However, the pattern of decrease was different between the two groups. No differences in muscle CSA occurred in either group. These findings suggest that in trained individuals, CV and SME training protocols are effective at increasing concentric strength as a result of neural adaptations (increases in specific tension). Further, the advantage of SME training could be related to muscle composition and architecture.