What is the best training for hypertrophy?5 answersThe most effective training for hypertrophy involves high-intensity efforts to recruit as many muscle fibers as possible, self-selecting loads and repetition ranges, and incorporating concentric, eccentric, and isometric actions with maintained muscular tension. Advanced resistance training techniques like agonist–antagonist supersets, drop sets, and fast eccentric contractions can provide additional stimulus for hypertrophy. Low-load resistance training to failure can induce comparable hypertrophy to high-load training due to increased exercise volume and metabolic stress. Ischaemic hypertrophy training, restricting blood flow during exercise, has shown promising results in muscle size increase without significant stiffness changes. Overall, a combination of high-intensity traditional training with advanced techniques and occasional low-load resistance training to failure can optimize hypertrophy outcomes.
How does maximum strength relates with stroke?4 answersMaximal strength training (MST) has been shown to significantly improve muscle strength in chronic stroke survivors, leading to enhancements in functional measures like the 6-minute walk test and timed up and go test, without affecting maximal oxygen consumption or quality of life. Additionally, studies have indicated moderate relationships between isokinetic knee muscle strength and maximal step-up height after stroke, suggesting that muscle weakness is only partially associated with maximal step-up height post-stroke. Furthermore, correlations have been found between maximum weight-bearing through the paretic lower extremity, paretic knee extension strength, and comfortable gait speed in hemiparetic patients following stroke, with maximum weight-bearing being a superior predictor of gait speed. These findings collectively highlight the importance of maximal strength in rehabilitation post-stroke and its impact on functional outcomes.
What is the optimal training intensity for strength?5 answersThe optimal training intensity for strength varies depending on the specific context. High-intensity strength training (80-85% of one repetition maximum) has been shown to result in higher increases in strength and muscle size compared to low-intensity training (50% of one repetition maximum) without relaxation. Additionally, high-intensity training leads to an increase in the area occupied by type II muscle fibers, while low-intensity training without relaxation leads to an increase in the area occupied by type I muscle fibers. However, for isometric strength training, maximal or near-maximal intensities have been found to be the most effective for increasing strength. In competitive athletes, maximal strength gains are achieved with a mean training intensity of 85% of one repetition maximum, 2 days per week, and a mean training volume of 8 sets per muscle group. Finally, a study comparing different training intensities found that both low-movement speed training (corresponding to approximately 60% 1RM) and high-movement speed training (corresponding to approximately 40% 1RM) resulted in similar improvements in strength, muscle mass, and throwing velocity.
How many sets per week for maximum hypertropy?3 answersThe optimal exercise volume for maximum hypertrophy is not explicitly mentioned in the abstracts provided. However, one study by Gargallo et al. found that a single resistance exercise with a minimum volume of six sets of 20 repetitions maximum (RM) generated an acute post-exercise antihypertensive response that was maintained for 60 minutes in elderly people with controlled hypertension. Another study by Antunes et al. showed that reducing resistance training volume from three sets to one set per exercise for 8 weeks was sufficient to retain neuromuscular adaptations in older women. These studies provide insights into the effects of exercise volume on specific outcomes, but further research is needed to determine the optimal exercise volume for maximum hypertrophy.
How many sets per week for maximum hypertrophy?5 answersMultiple sets per week are associated with greater hypertrophy compared to a single set. The analysis of resistance training programs showed that men and women perform different weekly sets volumes (WSV) for different muscle groups. Men tend to emphasize upper body (UB) training, while women focus more on lower body (LB) training. A study using a mechanical resistance exercise system found that four sets of maximal knee extensions performed two or three times weekly for five weeks resulted in muscle hypertrophy and increased strength. Another study comparing the effects of 5 sets and 10 sets of 10 repetitions on muscle strength and hypertrophy found no significant difference between the two groups, suggesting that performing more than 5 sets per exercise does not promote greater gains in hypertrophy. Therefore, the optimal number of sets per week for maximum hypertrophy may vary depending on the individual and the muscle group being trained.
How to maximize hypertrophy with no drugs?5 answersTo maximize hypertrophy without drugs, several strategies can be employed. One approach is to manipulate resistance training (RT) variables, with a particular focus on RT volume. Increasing the volume of RT has been shown to enhance muscular adaptations. Another strategy is to train to failure, as it has been proposed that this is necessary for maximizing muscle growth. Training techniques such as forced repetitions/drop sets, supersets, and heavy negatives have also been advocated to enhance hypertrophic response to resistance exercise. By incorporating these strategies into a training program, individuals can optimize their potential for muscle growth without the use of drugs.