Effects of different strength training volumes and subsequent detraining on strength performance in aging adults

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the volume-dependence of upper-body strength performance improvement and the retention effects after detraining in aging adults. Eighteen healthy, untrained, middle-aged volunteers were randomized into two groups: low volume (LV), mean = 494 kg. and high volume (HV), mean = 686 kg. load. Participants were tested and retested before a 12-week (2 times/week) period of RT for baseline values (pre-); after 6 weeks (middle) and 12 weeks of training (post-), and 12 weeks after interruption (detraining - no systematic exercise). On each test day, a five-repetition maximum (5-RM) for the seated row; handgrip strength test (HGS); and local muscular endurance for elbow flexors (LME) were carried out. Participants performed seated row training 2 times per week with a rest interval of at least 48 h between sessions. After 24 sessions of RT (resistance training), LME significantly increased in both groups (p < 0.05), without differences between groups (14 vs. 18%, for LV and HV, respectively). In addition, 5-RM increased in both the LV (22%) and HV (20%) groups. There were no significant increases in HGS in either group (LV 3% and HV 6%). After detraining, both groups lost up to 15% of LME and 5-RM. In untrained, middle-aged adults, there is an increase in maximal dynamic strength and local muscular endurance, independent of volume chosen. Furthermore, after 12 weeks detraining, the loss does not decrease to baseline values.