Effect of Equal Volume, High-Repetition Resistance Training to Volitional Fatigue, With Different Workout Frequencies, on Muscle Mass and Neuromuscular Performance in Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

This study examined the effects of equal volume, high-repetition resistance training (HRRT) performed to volitional fatigue, with different workout frequencies, on muscle mass and neuromuscular performance (strength, endurance) in untrained postmenopausal women. Subjects were randomized to perform HRRT 2 d•wk 21 (HRRT-2; 3 sets of 20-30 repetitions/set for elbow and knee flexion and extension) or 3 d•wk 21 (HRRT-3; 2 sets of 20-30 repetitions/set per exercise) for 8 weeks. Baseline and post-training assessments were made for muscle thickness, strength (1 repetition maximum [1RM]) and endurance (number of repetitions performed at 50% baseline 1RM) for elbow and knee flexor and extensor muscle groups. Significance was set at p , 0.05. There was a significant increase over time for all measures of muscle thickness, strength, and endurance (p , 0.005), with no differences between groups. Untrained postmenopausal women can expect to achieve similar improvements in muscle size, strength, and endurance when training 2 or 3 days per week, provided total weekly training volume is equal.