Time-restricted feeding in young men performing resistance training: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Science
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Investigating the synergistic effects of resistance training (RT) and time-restricted feeding (TRF) on body composition and muscular adaptations.
• Understanding nutrient intake patterns and their influence on training outcomes in recreationally active young males.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of eight weeks of RT, with and without TRF, on body composition, muscular strength, and nutrient intake.
• To determine if TRF influences lean mass retention and muscular improvements during a resistance training program.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving young, recreationally active males.
• Interventions included resistance training (3 days/week) combined with time-restricted feeding (4 days/week, 4-hour eating window) or resistance training alone.
• Measurements included body composition (DXA), muscle cross-sectional area (ultrasound), strength, endurance, and dietary intake (4-day records).

Main Results:

• TRF significantly reduced daily energy intake (approx. 650 kcal/day) but did not negatively affect total body composition.
• Both groups showed increases in muscle cross-sectional area (biceps brachii, rectus femoris).
• Greater improvements in upper and lower body strength and lower body muscular endurance were observed in the TRF group.

Conclusions:

• Time-restricted feeding effectively reduces energy intake in conjunction with resistance training.
• TRF does not adversely affect lean mass retention or muscular adaptations during short-term resistance training in young males.
• Combining TRF with RT may enhance muscular strength and endurance improvements compared to RT alone.