Acute Physiological and Perceptual Responses to Rest Redistribution With Heavier Loads in Resistance-Trained Men

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Resistance Training

Background:

• Optimizing resistance training protocols is crucial for maximizing adaptations while managing fatigue.
• Rest interval manipulation is a key variable that can influence acute physiological and perceptual responses.
• Investigating novel rest strategies like rest redistribution with heavier loads (RR + L) is important for practical application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the acute physiological and perceptual effects of RR + L compared to traditional set (TS) structures in resistance-trained men.
• To determine if RR + L influences key hormonal and metabolic markers, as well as perceived exertion and heart rate.

Main Methods:

• Eight resistance-trained men completed two back squat (BS) sessions: RR + L (4 sets of (2x5 reps) with 90s interset/30s intraset rest at 75% 1RM) and TS (4 sets of 10 reps with 120s rest at 70% 1RM).
• Blood samples were analyzed for growth hormone (GH), total testosterone (TT), cortisol (C), and blood lactate (BL).
• Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) and heart rate (HR) were measured after each set.

Main Results:

• Volume load was significantly greater in the RR + L condition (approximately 7% increase).
• No significant differences were observed between conditions for GH, TT, BL, RPE, or HR.
• Significant main effects of time point (and set) were found for all measured physiological and perceptual variables.

Conclusions:

• RR + L effectively increases training volume load without significantly impacting acute hormonal, metabolic, or perceptual responses.
• This strategy may allow practitioners to increase training volume without a proportional increase in acute fatigue.
• Further research could explore the long-term adaptations and applicability of RR + L across different populations and training goals.