Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 9, 2026
08:31
Versatility of Protocols for Resistance Training and Assessment Using Static and Dynamic Ladders in Animal Models
Published on: December 17, 2021
Blood ammonium and lactate accumulation response to different training protocols using the parallel squat exercise
Matthew J Rogatzki1, Glenn A Wright, Richard P Mikat
1Departments of 1Exercise and Sport Science, and 2Biology, University of Wisconsin La Crosse, La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|July 11, 2013
Summary
Resistance exercise protocols impact metabolic responses. Higher repetitions and shorter rest increase blood ammonium and lactate, indicating greater metabolic load and need for longer recovery.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Science
- Metabolic Response
Background:
- Understanding the metabolic demands of different resistance training protocols is crucial for optimizing athletic performance and recovery.
- Practical training protocols often combine variables like repetitions and rest periods, influencing physiological responses.
- Previous research has explored metabolic markers, but direct comparisons of field-based protocols are less common.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the metabolic responses, specifically blood ammonium and lactate accumulation, of three distinct resistance exercise protocols (muscular endurance, strength, hypertrophy).
- To investigate how varying repetitions and rest times within a fixed total work volume affect physiological markers.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for resistance training prescription based on metabolic load.
Main Methods:
- Sixteen trained men performed individualized squat protocols (muscular endurance, strength, hypertrophy) with equal total work volume in a randomized order.
- Blood samples were collected pre- and post-exercise to analyze changes in plasma ammonium and blood lactate concentrations.
- Protocols were separated by 3-7 days to allow for adequate recovery between sessions.
Main Results:
- The muscular endurance (ME) protocol resulted in significantly higher plasma ammonium accumulation compared to both hypertrophy (HYP) and strength (STR) protocols.
- A significant difference in blood lactate concentration change was observed between the ME and STR protocols, with ME showing higher levels.
- Metabolic markers (ammonium and lactate) accumulated more with increased repetitions and decreased rest times between sets.
Conclusions:
- Resistance training protocols emphasizing higher repetitions and shorter rest periods induce a greater metabolic load, evidenced by increased blood ammonium and lactate.
- Athletes training for events requiring high metabolic load should incorporate more repetitions and shorter rest intervals.
- The metabolic accumulation from high-repetition exercise may necessitate longer recovery periods between training sessions compared to low-repetition protocols.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Muscle Recovery and Fatigue
Muscle fatigue refers to the decline in a muscle's ability to maintain the force of contraction after prolonged activity. It primarily stems from changes within muscle fibers. Even before experiencing muscle fatigue, one may feel tired and have the urge to stop the activity. This response, known as central fatigue, occurs due to changes in the central nervous system, namely the brain and spinal cord. While there is no single mechanism that induces fatigue, it may serve as a protective response...
01:27Exercise and Muscle Performance
Exercise induces a range of adaptations in muscle tissue, depending on the type and duration of activity. Such physical training can be broadly categorized into two types: endurance exercises and resistance exercises.
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...