Is inertial flywheel resistance training superior to gravity-dependent resistance training in improving muscle strength? A systematic review with meta-analyses

Vicens-Bordas, Jordi; Esteve, Ernest; Fort-Vanmeerhaeghe, Azahara; Bandholm, Thomas; Thorborg, Kristian

doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2017.10.006

Cited by 58 publications

(68 citation statements)

References 57 publications

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“…Other studies using inertia to apply eccentric overload via a flywheel (Norrbrand et al 2008) are difficult to compare with the present study, as it is challenging to quantifying the intensity applied with the flywheel compared with the present study. However, it should be noted that a recent meta-analysis concluded that flywheel resistance training was not superior to constant load strength training for increases in strength (Vicens-Bordas et al 2018), which is in line with the present results. In the present study, leg press was chosen because of its functional relevance and previously well-documented FGC improvements (Fimland et al 2009;Unhjem et al 2015), and particular care was taken to ensure a progressive increase in concentric intensity (~90% of 1RM) throughout the training period, by adding more resistance when the participants could lift more than the intended four repetitions.…”

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 92%

Maximal strength training: the impact of eccentric overload

Tøien

Haglo

Unhjem

et al. 2018

Journal of Neurophysiology

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The search for the most potent strength training intervention is continuous. Maximal strength training (MST) yields large improvements in force-generating capacity (FGC), largely attributed to efferent neural drive enhancement. However, it remains elusive whether eccentric overload, before the concentric phase, may augment training-induced neuromuscular adaptations. A total of 53 23 ± 3 (SD)-yr-old untrained males were randomized to either a nontraining control group (CG) or one of two training groups performing leg press strength training with linear progression, three times per week for 8 wk. The first training group carried out MST with four sets of four repetitions at ~90% one-repetition maximum (1RM) in both action phases. The second group performed MST with an augmented eccentric load of 150% 1RM (eMST). Measurements were taken of 1RM and rate of force development (RFD), countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, and evoked potentials recordings [V-wave (V) and H-reflex (H) normalized to M-wave (M) in musculus soleus]. 1RM increased from 133 ± 16 to 157 ± 23 kg and 123 ± 18 to 149 ± 22 kg and CMJ by 2.3 ± 3.6 and 2.2 ± 3.7cm for MST and eMST, respectively (all P < 0.05). Early, late, and maximal RFD increased in both groups [634–1,501 N/s (MST); 644–2,111 N/s (eMST); P < 0.05]. These functional improvements were accompanied by increased V/M-ratio (MST: 0.34 ± 0.11 to 0.42 ± 14; eMST: .36 ± 0.14 to 0.43 ± 13; P < 0.05). Resting H/M-ratio remained unchanged. Training-induced improvements did not differ. All increases, except for CMJ, were different from the CG. MST is an enterprise for large gains in FGC and functional performance. Eccentric overload did not induce additional improvements, suggesting firing frequency and motor unit recruitment during MST may be maximal. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to apply evoked potential recordings to investigate effects on efferent neural drive following high-intensity strength training with and without eccentric overload in a functionally relevant lower extremity exercise. We document that eccentric overload does not augment improvements in efferent neural drive or muscle force-generating capacity, suggesting that high-intensity concentric loads may maximally tax firing frequency and motor unit recruitment.

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Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 92%

Maximal strength training: the impact of eccentric overload

Tøien

Haglo

Unhjem

et al. 2018

Journal of Neurophysiology

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“…Contrastingly, in isotonic exercises the concentric phase is more demanding than the eccentric phase (3,32). The advantages of eccentric resistance exercise on subsequent performance have been reported by previous authors (18,32), e.g. EOL protocol reported a positive PAP effect on jump and sprint performance in soccer players (14); moreover, improved lower limb (e.g.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 78%

“…Iso-inertial devices, also known as flywheel ergometers, can be utilised to perform an eccentric overload (EOL) protocol. These have been largely utilised to produce chronic adaptations (32). Nevertheless, only a few studies have analysed the acute performance benefits offered by this protocol.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Effect of Postactivation Potentiation After Medium vs. High Inertia Eccentric Overload Exercise on Standing Long Jump, Countermovement Jump, and Change of Direction Performance

Beato

Keijzer

Leskauskas

et al. 2021

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

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“…Several meta-analyses have examined the effectiveness of FIT in improving muscle hypertrophy, strength, and power output [26][27][28][29]; however, very little practical information regarding the sets, repetitions, intensities, or frequencies that can be used to optimize training has been provided. Tesch et al [30] summarized the findings of a number of FIT studies and provided some practical guidelines for YoYo™ exercise training.…”

Section: Flywheel Inertial Trainingmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…While these studies have displayed positive increases in muscle size, the participants trained using isolated, single-joint movements (e.g., knee extension) or small muscle group exercises (e.g., shoulder abduction). As a result, the conclusions drawn within the meta-analyses may be biased, given that 77.8% [26,27], 70.0% [29], and 57.1% [28] of the studies included for muscle size were based on these movements. While these exercises may be beneficial for body building and rehabilitation settings, they are not commonly prescribed when training team sport athletes.…”

Section: Flywheel Inertial Trainingmentioning

confidence: 99%

Implementing Eccentric Resistance Training—Part 2: Practical Recommendations

Suchomel

Wagle²,

Douglas³

et al. 2019

JFMK

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The purpose of this review is to provide strength and conditioning practitioners with recommendations on how best to implement tempo eccentric training (TEMPO), flywheel inertial training (FIT), accentuated eccentric loading (AEL), and plyometric training (PT) into resistance training programs that seek to improve an athlete’s hypertrophy, strength, and power output. Based on the existing literature, TEMPO may be best implemented with weaker athletes to benefit positional strength and hypertrophy due to the time under tension. FIT may provide an effective hypertrophy, strength, and power stimulus for untrained and weaker individuals; however, stronger individuals may not receive the same eccentric (ECC) overload stimulus. Although AEL may be implemented throughout the training year to benefit hypertrophy, strength, and power output, this strategy is better suited for stronger individuals. When weaker and stronger individuals are exposed to PT, they are exposed to an ECC overload stimulus as a result of increases in the ECC force and ECC rate of force development. In conclusion, when choosing to utilize ECC training methods, the practitioner must integrate these methods into a holistic training program that is designed to improve the athlete’s performance capacity.

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Is inertial flywheel resistance training superior to gravity-dependent resistance training in improving muscle strength? A systematic review with meta-analyses

Cited by 58 publications

References 57 publications

Maximal strength training: the impact of eccentric overload

Maximal strength training: the impact of eccentric overload

Effect of Postactivation Potentiation After Medium vs. High Inertia Eccentric Overload Exercise on Standing Long Jump, Countermovement Jump, and Change of Direction Performance

Implementing Eccentric Resistance Training—Part 2: Practical Recommendations

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