Research note: effect of load reductions over consecutive sets on repetition performance

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Maintaining repetition performance is key for muscular adaptations in resistance training.
• Short rest intervals (< or = 1 min) between sets challenge repetition maintenance and may necessitate load adjustments.
• Understanding optimal load management strategies is vital for effective training program design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare repetition performance across different load reduction strategies during consecutive sets of lower-body resistance exercises.
• To determine the necessity of load reductions for maintaining performance in exercises like the back squat, leg curl, and leg extension.
• To identify specific load reduction percentages required to sustain repetition targets under fatiguing conditions.

Main Methods:

• Established ten-repetition maximum (10RM) loads for back squat, leg curl, and leg extension.
• Subjects completed four workouts with varying load conditions: constant load, 5% reduction, 10% reduction, and 15% reduction per set.
• Analyzed and compared the number of repetitions completed across sets and conditions using statistical pairwise comparisons.

Main Results:

• The back squat and leg curl required a 15% load reduction per set to maintain repetition performance compared to a constant load.
• No significant differences in repetitions were observed for the leg extension across all tested load conditions.
• Fewer repetitions were completed in set 3 under constant, 5%, and 10% load reduction conditions compared to the 15% reduction condition, averaged across exercises.

Conclusions:

• Significant load reductions (15% per set) are necessary for the back squat and leg curl to maintain repetition performance with short rest intervals.
• The leg extension may not require load reductions to sustain repetition performance under similar training conditions.
• Exercise-specific strategies for load management are essential for optimizing training outcomes and adherence to repetition targets.