Cross-education after high-frequency versus low-frequency volume-matched handgrip training
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Published on: September 18, 2017
Natasha G Boyes1, Peter Yee1, Joel L Lanovaz1
1College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, 87 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N 5B2.
Introduction:
Cross-education training programs cause interlimb asymmetry of strength and hypertrophy. We examined the cross-education effects from a high-frequency (HF) versus a low-frequency (LF) volume-matched handgrip training program on interlimb asymmetry.
Methods:
Right-handed participants completed either HF (n = 10; 2 × 6 repetitions 10 times per week) or LF (n = 9; 5 × 8 repetitions 3 times per week) training. Testing occurred twice before and once after 4 weeks of right-handed isometric handgrip training totaling 120 weekly repetitions. Measures were maximal isometric handgrip and wrist flexion torque, muscle thickness, and muscle activation (electromyography; EMG).
Results:
Grip strength was greater in both limbs posttraining, pooled across groups (P < 0.001). Trained limb muscle thickness increased in both groups (P < 0.05; untrained, P = 0.897). EMG and wrist flexion torque did not change (all P > 0.103).
Discussion:
Both LF and HF induced cross-education of grip strength to the untrained limb, but HF did not reduce asymmetry. These findings have implications for injury rehabilitation. Muscle Nerve 56: 689-695, 2017.
