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Changes in leg strength 8 and 32 h after endurance exercise
M Leveritt1, H MacLaughlin, P J Abernethy
1School of Human Movement Studies, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Australia. michl@hms.uq.edu.au
Journal of Sports Sciences
|January 6, 2001
Summary
A single bout of endurance exercise did not significantly impact subsequent leg extension strength performance in trained males. However, metabolic markers like plasma ammonia showed alterations after cycling, suggesting potential changes in metabolic activity.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Human Performance
Background:
- Understanding the interplay between endurance and strength training is crucial for optimizing athletic performance.
- Previous research has yielded mixed results regarding the residual effects of aerobic exercise on muscular strength.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of a single endurance exercise session on subsequent maximal strength output.
- To assess the time course of these effects, specifically at 8 and 32 hours post-exercise.
Main Methods:
- Eight resistance-trained males completed isokinetic, isometric, and isotonic leg extension tests.
- Tests were performed 8 and 32 hours after a 50-minute cycling bout at 70-110% of critical power, alongside a control condition.
- Plasma lactate and ammonia levels were monitored before and after strength assessments.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in leg extension torque (isokinetic, isometric, isotonic) were observed 8 or 32 hours after endurance exercise compared to the control.
- A notable, though not statistically significant, increase in plasma ammonia occurred 8 hours post-cycling.
- A statistically significant increase in plasma ammonia was measured 32 hours after the endurance bout, unlike in the control condition.
Conclusions:
- Endurance cycling does not appear to compromise subsequent maximal leg extension strength in trained individuals.
- Metabolic responses, indicated by elevated plasma ammonia, may be altered following endurance exercise, even if maximal strength is maintained.