The effect of circuit weight training on strength, cardiorespiratory function, and body composition of adult men

The purpose of this study was to determine the changes elicited by circuit weight training (CWT) and running (RN) programs conducted 3 days/week for 20 weeks. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: CWT (n = 11); RN (n = 16); and control (n = 14). CWT consisted of 10 exercises performed in 2 sets of 15 reps with 20 to 25 sec rest between exercises. CWT workout time decreased from 30 min to 23 min; exercise heart rate (HR) increased from 79% to 84% max; average weight increased from 42% to 56% of max 1 RM strength and total weight increased 81% (1506 to 2720 lbs/workout). The RN group exercised at 85% max HR for 23 to 27 min/workout. Multivariate and step-down analyses showed the CWT group to be significantly different from the control group at the end of 20 weeks in leg press strength, fat weight, and Vo2 max (1/min). The RN group was significantly different from the CWT group in Vo2 max and treadmill time. Univariate analyses revealed no differences between the CWT and control groups in Vo2 max expressed as ml/kg LBW.min but did show a significant superiority of the RN group over the other two groups in this variable. It was concluded that the CWT program was most specific in improving strength and changing body composition and produced only a small aerobic effect as measured on the treadmill running test.