Cardiovascular Adaptations Induced by Resistance Training in Animal Models

Abstract

In the last 10 years the number of studies showing the benefits of resistance training (RT) to the cardiovascular system, have grown. In comparison to aerobic training, RT-induced favorable adaptations to the cardiovascular system have been ignored for many years, thus the mechanisms of the RT-induced cardiovascular adaptations are still uncovered. The lack of animal models with comparable protocols to the RT performed by humans hampers the knowledge. We have used squat-exercise model, which is widely used by many others laboratories. However, to a lesser extent, other models are also employed to investigate the cardiovascular adaptations. In the subsequent sections we will review the information regarding cardiac morphological adaptations, signaling pathway of the cardiac cell, cardiac function and the vascular adaptation induced by RT using this animal model developed by Tamaki et al. in 1992. Furthermore, we also describe cardiovascular findings observed using other animal models of RT.

Harnessing the Benefits of Endogenous Hydrogen Sulfide to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease

“…A model to assess the benefits of resistive training. Briefly, for this method, the animal is suspended and positioned on its hind legs, then electrical stimulation coerces the muscle to flex and the animal squats against a weight [ 165 , 166 ]. All have their advantages and disadvantages (as reviewed by Feng et al (2019)), but they have allowed researchers to study the molecular benefits of exercise.…”

Pyramidal Systems in Resistance Training

“…This response is attenuated in trained athletes during exercises [21]. The impact of resistance training on cardiovascular function was outlined in recent studies, with positive effects on blood pressure noted at rest [22], although the underlying mechanisms for this remain under investigation [23]. One study [24] found that the pyramidal method specifically reduced blood viscosity, thereby diminishing cardiovascular risk factors.…”

The Effect of a Detraining After Resistance Training on the Histochemical Expression of Potassium Channels and Mitochondrial Biogenesis of Heart Tissue in Male Rats

“…esistance training is associated with various adaptations in the organs of the body [1]. However, functional adaptation and morphology can be reduced after a short R period of detraining [2].…”