Comparing internal and external load demands to a moderate versus high intensity resistance circuit session

Gauci, Daniel (2024). Comparing internal and external load demands to a moderate versus high intensity resistance circuit session. University of Birmingham. M.Sc.

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Abstract

Rationale: The development of strength and conditioning abilities is integral to both health and athletic performance. Combined training has been increasingly utilised to provide a concurrent stimulus with lower time-demands and other unique purported advantages compared to traditional training. However, limited data exists on the training response to different load intensities, hindering the ability to modulate and apply a combined stimulus. Therefore, the current study aimed to compare metrics of internal and external load utilising a Moderate (55% 1RM) versus High intensity (75% 1RM) resistance circuit session.

Methods: Healthy resistance-trained males (n=10) performed both circuits in a randomised cross-over fashion. Pre and post-exercise, assessments of capillary blood lactate, maximum voluntary contraction, broad and countermovement jumps were undertaken. Furthermore, during exercise: heart rate, muscle activation, differentiated RPE and repetitions completed were recorded. 6 participants also completed measures of recovery at 24/48/72 h post-circuits.

Results: The Moderate intensity session provided a significantly greater number of repetitions per set (all p = <0.0001), total volume load (14682 ± 3404 kg vs 13370 ± 3140 kg, p = 0.0023) and increase in blood lactate (14.24 ± 4.84 mmol/L vs 10.39 ± 2.12 mmol/L, p = 0.0156), whilst the High session resulted in greater mean muscle activity (71 ± 8% vs 45 ± 3%, p = 0.0065) plus a lower post-exercise mean countermovement jump height (31 ± 6.2 cm vs 32.7 ± 6.6 cm, p = 0.0452). No decrement in recovery measures was found after either circuit.

Conclusion: This data suggests that moderate intensity RCT provides a greater anaerobic load, but with larger indicated neuromuscular loading in the High session. Also, an equally large cardiovascular load and low recovery burden was identified between the circuits. These findings therefore help inform the application of a combined stimulus.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Masters by Research > M.Sc.)

Award Type:

Masters by Research > M.Sc.

Supervisor(s):