Menstrual Cycle Phase Does Not Influence Training-Induced Muscle Hypertrophy or Strength: A Randomized Controlled...

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Understanding the influence of the menstrual cycle on exercise adaptations is crucial for optimizing training.
• Previous research suggests potential hormonal impacts on muscle response to training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of menstrual cycle phase-based training (MCPBT) on muscle hypertrophy and strength.
• To compare MCPBT with continuous resistance training (RET) in healthy females.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, unilateral design was used with 24 healthy females over three menstrual cycles (MCs).
• Training conditions included continuous exercise (EX), high-volume follicular phase (HV-FOL), and high-volume luteal phase (HV-LUT), compared to a control (CON).
• Muscle hypertrophy and strength were assessed via dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, VL CSA, FFM, and 1RM strength.

Main Results:

• All resistance training conditions significantly increased thigh lean mass, VL CSA, FFM, and 1RM strength compared to the control group (p < 0.001).
• No significant differences in adaptations were observed between the continuous exercise, HV-FOL, and HV-LUT training conditions (p ≥ 0.17).

Conclusions:

• Menstrual cycle phase-based training does not provide superior hypertrophy or strength benefits over continuous RET.
• Training volume-load is a key determinant of muscular adaptations, irrespective of menstrual cycle phase.
• Adjusting resistance training based on menstrual cycle phases is not necessary for achieving muscular adaptations.