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Police officers, particularly the ones who are trained to be on "special forces", perform a wide range of hazardous and physically demanding activities when aiming to protect and serve. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between lower limb and trunk muscle endurance with drop vertical jump (DVJ) height in a special military police force.One hundred and three male military men (age: 36 ± 5.0 years; height: 1.76 ± 0.05 m; weight: 81.8 ± 9.7 kg) volunteered to take part in this study.DVJ, McGill core battery (trunk flexion, trunk extension, and side bridge test-right and left), and single-leg squat repetitions. Correlations were analyzed using the Pearson correlation coefficient (r). The level of significance for all analyses was set at p ≤ 0.05.Single-leg squat repetitions were positively associated with DVJ height, contact time and flight time (p = 0.00093∗∗, p = 0.00085∗∗, and p = 0.00098∗∗ respectively). No correlation was observed between trunk muscle endurance and DVJ.Therefore, it was concluded that greater endurance of the lower limb muscles, as demonstrated by the single leg squat, was associated with better performance in a DVJ. Individuals should consider incorporating single leg squats into their fitness program to develop muscular endurance and possibly perform better in the DVJ.

Santana, HG, Paz, GA, Willardson, JM, de Araújo Farias, D, and Miranda, H. Effects of differing foam rolling periods on training volume and myoelectric responses of lower-body muscles. J Strength Cond Res 36(12): 3311-3318, 2022-Foam rolling (FR) is a practice that has increased in popularity before and after resistance training. The purpose of this study was to compare the acute effects of different foam rolling periods for the lower body muscles on subsequent performance, myoelectric activity and rating of perceived exertion in trained men. Fourteen men (26.2 ± 3.2 years, 178 ± 0.04 cm, 82.2 ± 10 kg and body mass index 25.9 ± 3.3kg/m -2 ) volunteered for this study. Four repetition maximum (4-RM) loads were determined for hexagonal bar deadlift and 45°-angled leg press during test and retest sessions over two nonconsecutive days. The experimental conditions included a traditional protocol (TP) with no prior foam rolling, and four other conditions that involved FR applied to the quadriceps, hamstrings and triceps surae for one set of 30 sec (P1), two sets of 30 sec (P2), three sets of 30 sec (P3), or four sets of 30 sec (P4).The resistance training consisted of five sets with 4-RM loads. The number of repetitions completed, the myoelectric activity of lower limbs were recorded, as well as the rating of perceived exertion for each protocol. There were no differences between the protocols in the total repetitions for the hexagonal bar deadlift and 45° angled leg press exercises. Similar results between protocols were also noted for muscle activity and rated perceived exertion (RPE). Therefore, the results of the present study indicated that the FR didn't provide effects on performance, myoelectric activity and rating of perceived exertion responses during high intensity resistance performance for lower limb exercises.

Summary Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine myoelectric activity, fatigue index and volume load adopting different intersession recovery periods between repeated resistance training (RT) bouts. Methods Fifteen recreationally-trained men participated in this study. Eight-repetition maximum (8RM) loads were determined for the bench press (BP) and 30° incline bench press (BP30) over two non-consecutive days. Three experimental protocols were performed in randomized order to examine the effect of different intersession recovery periods between repeated RT sessions for upper body muscles (pectoral major activity, anterior deltoid, triceps brachii, and biceps brachii) on volume load and myoelectric activity (SEMG), including: 24 hours (P24); 48 hours (P48); and 72 hours (P72). Each RT session consisted of performing four sets to failure for the BP and BP30 with 8-RM loads and 2-minute rest intervals between sets. Results The results showed that for SEMG activity, during the BP and BP30 exercises, there were no significant main effects for session, protocol, or interaction between protocols and sessions in the percentage difference between sets in activity of all muscles analyzed. Considering the overall session volume load, a significant main effect for session was noted. Volume load was significantly lower in Session 2 versus Session 1 under the P24 h protocol, without significant differences between the P48 and P72. Conclusion Therefore, coaches and practitioners who need to accomplish a higher volume load without negatively impacting fatigue index and myoelectric activity for upper body muscles, should adopt recovery periods longer than 24 hours between similar RT bouts.

The purpose of this study was to compare a periodized versus a non-periodized protocol of kettlebell (KTB) swings over six weeks on strength, power, and muscular endurance. Twenty-eight high intensity functional training (HIFT) practitioners were assigned to non-periodized (NPG = 11), periodized (PG = 11), or control groups (CG = 6). NPG used the same load (20 kg) throughout the training period while the PG used a step loading progression (with an added four kilograms every two weeks). Measures of strength and muscular endurance in the deadlift exercise, and power in the countermovement jump were assessed before and after six weeks. A two-way ANOVA was used to verify pre- to post-test differences in strength, power, and muscular endurance. An analysis of the effect size was also incorporated. For strength and power, statistical differences from pre- to post-test were found for both the NPG (p < 0.001; 1-RM improvement = 8.7%; jump height improvement = 8.7%) and PG (p < 0.001; 1-RM improvement = 7.8%; jump height improvement = 10.1%), with no difference between groups. For muscular endurance, only the PG showed significant differences from pre- to post-test (p = 0.013; muscular endurance improvement = 23.8%). In conclusion, when the goal is to increase strength and power performances in HIFT practitioners, periodized and non-periodized KTB models appear to be equally effective, and this can simplify the strength coach’s practice in programming KTB swing training periods. For muscular endurance, the addition of KTB swing on a periodized basis seems to be a more effective strategy.

Study design: Cross-over study. Context: The squat, single-leg squat, forward lunge, and reverse lunge are fundamental movements often performed in activities of daily living, sports competitions, and sport-specific training. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of visual feedback with a laser sensor (VFLS) versus a control condition on the myoelectric activity (surface electromyography [sEMG]) of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO), vastus lateralis, gluteus medius (Gmed), and erector spinae muscles during the performance of several squat variations with bodyweight. Methods: Nineteen female college students (20 [2.5] y, 165.3 [10.2] cm, 66.4 [4.1] kg, 2 [1.2] y of resistance training experience) with a background in strength or sports training volunteered to participate in this study. Over 4 separate visits, subjects performed 2 sets of 10 repetitions of a squat variation exercise in random order (ie, squat, single-leg squat, forward lunge, and reverse lunge). The first set of a given squat variation condition was considered a control set, and then after 3-minute rest, a second set was performed with VFLS. Results: Significant decreases in VMO and Gmed myoelectric activity were observed during the VFLS set versus the control set for the forward lunge exercise (P = .03). No differences were observed between the control set and VFLS set in the sEMG normalized signal for all muscles analyzed for the squat and single-leg squat, respectively. However, the sample entropy of the sEMG signal for the erector spinae became more irregular during the VFLS set versus the control set for the squat exercise (P = .01), whereas the Gmed presented a more irregular sEMG signal during the VFLS set versus the control set for the single-leg squat (P = .08). Conclusion: Laser sensor biofeedback may induce significant decreases in VMO and Gmed activation performing forward lunge exercise. Therefore, laser sensor biofeedback may induce a reduction in muscle activity of neutralizers muscles during a few squat bodyweight variations (bilateral, single-leg, forward, and reverse lunge).

Simão, R, Polito, M, de Salles, BF, Marinho, DA, Garrido, ND, Santos Junior, ERT, and Willardson, JM. Acute and long-term comparison of fixed vs. self-selected rest interval between sets on upper-body strength. J Strength Cond Res 36(2): 540-544, 2022-The effects of different rest interval durations between sets has been widely studied, but only recently, the self-selected rest interval (SSRI) has been a matter of interest. However, previous studies comparing fixed and SSRI have investigated only acute responses. The purpose of this study was to analyze the acute and long-term effects of a fixed rest interval (FRI) vs. an SSRI between sets on upper-body performance and strength gains. Thirty-three trained men were randomly divided into 2 groups: FRI (75 seconds between sets), and SSRI. Both groups performed 3 sets with 75% of 1-repetition maximum until repetition failure in the chest press (CP), lat pull-down (LPD), shoulder press (SP), and seated row (SR) 3 times a week for 8 weeks. The results demonstrated that the SSRI allowed for significantly greater repetition performance vs. the FRI in the CP (26.1 ± 2.0 vs. 21.5 ± 1.8), LPD (30.1 ± 2.3 vs. 24.9 ± 1.9), SP (24.0 ± 2.8 vs. 17.4 ± 1.5), and SR (26.3 ± 1.6 vs. 22.0 ± 1.6). In addition, the following strength gains were observed: SSRI (CP: 6.8%, LPD: 8.0%, SP: 6.7%, SR: 7.8%) and FRI (CP: 7.4%, LPD: 6.7%, SP: 6.1%, SR: 7.0%) without significant differences between the groups. In conclusion, within an 8-week period, both protocols seem to be effective for strength gains, despite the higher training volume accomplished by the SSRI group. However, the FRI was 37% more time efficient.

Miranda, H, de Souza, JAAA, Scudese, E, Paz, GA, Salerno, VP, Vigário, PdS, and Willardson, JM. Acute hormone responses subsequent to agonist-antagonist paired set vs. traditional straight set resistance training. J Strength Cond Res 34(6): 1591-1599, 2020-The purpose of this study was to compare acute hormone responses and rating of perceived exertion (OMNI-Res) subsequent to the agonist-antagonist paired set (PS) vs. the traditional straight set (TS) resistance training method. Twelve recreationally trained men (25.7 ± 4.7 years, 173 ± 6.3 cm and 71.5 ± 6.6 kg) participated in the current study. After 10 repetition maximum (RM) load determination, each subject performed the following 2 experimental sessions in random order: TS session-3 sets of 10 repetitions at 85% of 10RM for the machine seated row and barbell bench press with 2-minute rest intervals between sets; and PS-3 sets of 10 repetitions with 85% of 10RM alternating machine seated row and barbell bench press for the total of 6 PSs with 2-minute rest intervals between sets. Total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), cortisol, TT/cortisol ratio, growth hormone (GH), and blood lactate concentrations were measured before workout and immediately after workout and 15 and 30 minutes after workout. The OMNI-RES was recorded at the end of each set for both exercises within each session. Under the TS session, TT significantly increased immediately post-workout vs. the pre-workout time point. For the PS session, TT significantly decreased at 30-minute post-workout vs. the immediate post-workout time point, whereas, FT significantly increased immediately post-workout and 15-minute post-workout vs. the pre-workout time point. For the TS session, GH significantly increased immediately post-workout, and at the 15- and 30-minute post-workout time points vs. the pre-workout time point, respectively. For the PS session, GH was significantly increased immediately post-workout vs. the pre-workout time point. Blood lactate significantly increased at all post-workout time points vs. the pre-workout time point under both sessions. The cortisol and TT/cortisol ratio showed no differences between sessions. In conclusion, from an acute standpoint, the TS approach showed a tendency to cause greater disruption in hormone levels, despite the lack of significant differences vs. the PS approach at all time points. However, both strategies may promote similar acute hormone responses.

This study investigated the relationship between habitual nutritional intake and the responsiveness of elderly individuals to resistance training. Nineteen participants (66.0 ± 4.5 years) completed body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), functional capacity (timed-up-and-go, stair ascent, and stair descent), and neuromuscular tests (5-repetition maximum and countermovement jump) before and after a 9-week resistance training intervention. Habitual nutritional intake was evaluated at the beginning, middle, and end of the intervention. Participants were also divided into two groups based on their protein intake (low protein group 1.2 g/kg). Total Kcaloric and protein intake explained ~ 21–44% of the functional capacity improvements, while total Kcaloric and carbohydrate intake explained ~ 21–27% of the change in lean mass. Participants with high protein intake showed greater percentage improvement for timed-up-and-go (− 10.7 ± 4.9% and 0.4 ± 7.4%) and stair ascent (− 11.4 ± 7.6% and − 3.2 ± 5.3%) versus those with lower protein intake. Nutritional intake influenced individual responsiveness to resistance training in the elderly. Older adults with higher Kcaloric, protein, and carbohydrate intake presented greater improvement in functional capacity and lean mass following resistance training.

Purpose: This study compared the acute effects of two different resistance training methods on heart rate variability, blood pressure, and rating of perceived exertion in patients with liver cirrho...

The post-exercise hypotension response (PEH) has been shown to be dependent on the load and volume of a resistance training (RT) prescription. The aim of the present study was to compare the PEH between a low-load and high-volume and a high-load and low-volume RT session. Ten young men with more than 2 years of RT experience participated in the study. All subjects were submitted to 5 and 15 repetition maximum tests, in counterbalanced order, for the following exercises: back squat, chest press, leg press and wide grip pulldown. Then, the subjects performed two protocols (P5 and P15) that consisted of three sets to volitional failure with 2-min rest intervals between sets and exercises. Blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were measured before and after 60 min following each session at 10-min time points. Significantly greater total training volume was observed for all exercises in P15 (p

Introduction The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of different rest intervals within paired sets (PS) on total work and training volume, efficiency (training volume load/session duration time), and myoelectric activity. Method Fifteen trained men participated in this study. Four experimental protocols were applied: P30 (30 s rest), P60 (60 s rest), P90 (90 s rest), and P120 (120 s rest). The PS bout consisted of a bench press (BP)/lat pull down (LPD), 30° incline bench press (BP30)/wide-grip seated row (SR), and triceps extension (TE)/biceps curl (BC) exercises. Surface electromyography (sEMG) activity of the biceps and triceps brachii were recorded. Results Volume load (repetitions x number of exercise sets x loads) was significantly lower for the P30 (5385.8 ± 1224 kg) versus the P60 (6755.6 ± 1398.5 kg), P90 (7358.3 ± 1490.3 kg), and P120 (7463 ± 1310 kg) protocols. No significant differences in sEMG activity was noted between protocols. The efficiency (kg·min−1) of P30 (633.6 ± 144) was significantly higher versus P60 (397.4 ± 82.2), P90 (288.5 ± 58.4), and P120 (219.5 ± 38.5). Conclusion Short intra-set rest intervals (60 s) within PS may be a potential alternative for increasing the volume load, since longer intra-rest (90 s and 120 s) intervals do not provide additional benefits.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the foam rolling technique and static stretching on perceptual and neuromuscular parameters following a bout of high-intensity functional training (HIFT), which consisted of 100 pull-ups, 100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, and 100 air squats (Angie benchmark) in recreationally trained men (n = 39). Following baseline measurements (Feeling Scale, Visual Analogue Scale, Total Quality Recovery, Sit-and-Reach, Countermovement Jump, and Change-of-Direction t-test), the volunteers performed a single bout of HIFT. At the end of the session, participants were randomly assigned to one of three distinct groups: control (CONT), foam rolling (FR), or static stretching (SS). At the 24 h time-point, a second experimental session was conducted to obtain the post-test values. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Regarding power performance, none of the three groups reached pretest levels at 24 h point of the intervention. However, the CONT group still showed a greater magnitude of effect at the 24 h time-point (ES = 0.51, p ≥ 0.05). Flexibility presented the same recovery pattern as power performance (post × 24 h CONT = ES = 0.28, FR = ES = 0.21, SS = ES = 0.19). At 24 h, all groups presented an impaired performance in the COD t-test (CONT = ES = 0.24, FR = ES = 0.65, SS = ES = 0.56 p ≥ 0.05). The FR protocol resulted in superior recovery perceptions (pre × 24 h TQR = ES = 0.32 p ≥ 0.05). The results of the present study indicate that the use of FR and SS exercises may not be indicated when aiming to restore neuromuscular performance following a single bout of HIFT. The use of the FR technique during the cooldown phase of a HIFT session may be helpful in improving an individual’s perception of recovery.

The aim of this study was to compare the effect of post-activation potentiation (PAP) on countermovement jump (CMJ) using different set configurations and loads on conditioning activity (CA) in highly trained athletes. Sixteen national level swimmers participated in this study and performed a total of six visits to the laboratory. The first session was used for familiarization, the second session was utilized to determine five repetitions maximum (RM) in the half squat (HS), and the following four visits consisted of four CA protocols performed in a counterbalanced order. Two CAs were performed as traditional sets (TS) with sequential repetition, with different load, which involved one set of five repetitions at 100% (TS100) or 65% of 5 RM load (TS65). Additionally, two CAs included one set of five repetitions with intraset rests, 30 second inter-repetition rest (IRR), with both relative loads (IRR100 and IRR65). Countermovement jump height was measured at baseline, immediately after the CA, and every two-minutes until twelve-minutes. Significantly faster peak and mean barbell velocity was observed for the CAs with lower relative loads (p < 0.05). When evaluating the best result at individual time point of CMJ height after the CA, TS100 improved CMJ performance (ES = 0.38, p = 0.028, Δ% = 4.8 ± 7.3). Thus, set configuration using IRR does not promote PAP in the current study and TS with a high-load should be adopted for an acute improvement in CMJ for highly trained athletes.

espanolObjetivo: Examinar el efecto de la prefatiga del triceps braquial en el desempeno subsiguiente de la fuerza y actividad mioelectrica en el supino recto utilizando barra (SRB), mancuernas (SRM) y Smith machine (SMSR). Metodo: En el estudio participaron 19 hombres entrenados (27.9 ± 4.5 anos, 1.72 ± 0.1 m, 80.3 ± 9.2 kg). Se realizo una prueba de diez repeticiones maximas para la extension del triceps, asi como para el supino resto utilizando barra, mancuernas y Smith Machine. Se realizaron tres protocolos experimentales en orden aleatorizado. Los protocolos consistieron de cuatro series de repeticiones de extension del triceps (realizado con polea alta) hasta la fatiga, seguida de cuatro series de repeticiones hasta la fatiga de una de las tres modalidades de supino. Dos intervalos de descanso de un minuto se realizaron entre series y ejercicios. Las repeticiones totales (trabajo), volumen de entrenamiento y actividad mioelectrica de pectoral mayor, deltoides anteriores, biceps braquial y triceps braquial fueron registradas durante cada modalidad de supino. Resultados: Se observo una actividad significativamente mayor del biceps braquial durante la realizacion del supino recto con mancuerna versus barra y Smith Machine. No se observo ninguna diferencia significativa entre los protocolos. Conclusiones: Por lo tanto, considerando el volumen de entrenamiento y la actividad mioelectrica de los musculos sinergicos, se puede esperar un rendimiento similar en las diversas modalidades de supino, cuando es precedido por la realizacion de una extension de triceps. EnglishObjective: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of pre-fatiguing the triceps brachii on subsequent strength performance and myoelectric activity in the barbell, dumbbell, and Smith machine bench press. Method: Nineteen trained men participated of this study (27.9 ± 4.5 years; 1.72 ± 0.1 m; 80.3 ± 9.2 kg). Ten-repetition maximum loads were determined for the triceps extension as well as the barbell barbell, dumbbell and Smith machine bench press. Three experimental protocols were performed in a randomized design. All experimental protocols began with four sets of the triceps extension (performed with a high pulley) to repetition failure followed by four sets to repetition failure for one of three bench press modalities. Two minute-rest intervals were adopted between sets and exercises. Total repetitions (work), training volume and myoelectric activity of pectoralis major, anterior deltoid, biceps brachii, and triceps brachii were recorded during each bench press modality. Results: Significantly greater activity of the biceps brachii was observed during performance of the dumbbell bench press versus barbell and Smith machine bench press. No other significant differences were observed between protocols. Conclusion: Therefore, considering the training volume and myoelectric activity of the synergistic muscles, similar performance across bench press modalities can be expected when preceded by performance of a triceps extension. portuguesObjetivo: examinar o efeito da pre-fatiga do triceps braquial no desempenho subsequente da forca e atividade mioeletrica no supino reto utilizando barra, halter e Smith machine. Metodo: Participaram do estudo 19 homens treinados (27.9 ± 4.5 anos; 1.72 ± 0.1 m; 80.3 ± 9.2 kg). Foi realizado um teste de dez repeticoes maximas para a extensao do triceps, assim como para o SRB, SRH e SMSR. Tres protocolos experimentais foram realizados em ordem randomizada. Os protocolos consistiram de quatro series de repeticoes do a extensao do triceps (realizado com polia alta) ate a falha seguida de quatro series de repeticoes ate a falha de uma das tres modalidades de supino. Dois intervalos de descanso de um minuto foram adotados entre series e exercicios. As repeticoes totais (trabalho), volume de treinamento e atividade mioeletrica de peitoral maior, deltoide anterior, biceps braquial e triceps braquial foram registradas durante cada modalidade de supino. Resultados: Observou-se uma atividade significativamente maior do biceps braquial durante a realizacao do supino reto halter versus barra e Smith Machine. Nenhuma outra diferenca significativa foi observada entre os protocolos. Conclusoes: Portanto, considerando o volume de treinamento e a atividade mioeletrica dos musculos sinergicos, pode-se esperar um desempenho semelhante em modalidades de supino quando precedido pela realizacao de uma extensao de triceps.

espanolObjetivo: evaluar la eficacia de tres semanas de un entrenamiento de potencia en bloque utilizando dos configuraciones diferentes de conglomerados con equipo neumatico sobre el desempeno en el Sprint. Metodo: treinta individuos recreacionales activos participaron en este estudio (18 mujeres y 12 hombres). Los sujetos fueron distribuidos aleatoriamente en los grupos Control (GC), Cluster 1 (CL1) y Cluster 2 (CL2). El procedimiento experimental implico un periodo de entrenamiento de tres semanas; en los momentos pre y post-entrenamiento se aplicaron pruebas de Sprint de 20 metros. Resultados: hubo una diferencia significativa intergrupos para el CL2 versus CG en el tiempo, aceleracion y velocidad en los primeros 10 metros de Sprint. El valor alfa utilizado fue p Conclusion: estos resultados sugieren que las intervenciones con intervalos intra-series (especificamente CL2) utilizando equipo neumatico permiten adaptaciones positivas a la velocidad y la aceleracion despues de tres semanas de entrenamiento. EnglishObjective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a three-week power-training block with two different cluster set configurations using pneumatic equipment on sprint performance. Method: Thirty recreationally active subjects participated in this study (18 female and 12 male). The subjects were distributed randomly into Control (CG), Cluster 1 (CL1) and Cluster 2 (CL2) groups. The experimental procedure involved a three-week training period; at the pre- and post-training time points, a 20-meter sprint tests were applied. Results: There was an intergroup significant difference for the CL2 versus the CG for time, acceleration and velocity in the first 10-meter sprint test. The alpha value used was p Conclusion: These results suggest that interventions with intra-set intervals (specifically CL2) using pneumatic equipment allow for positive adaptations in velocity and acceleration after three-week training. portuguesObjetivo: avaliar a eficacia de tres semanas de um treinamento de potencia em bloco utilizando duas configuracoes diferentes de cluster set com equipamento pneumatico sobre o desempenho de Sprint. Metodo: Trinta individuos recreacionalmente ativos participaram deste estudo (18 mulheres e 12 homens). Os sujeitos foram distribuidos aleatoriamente nos grupos Controle (GC), Cluster 1 (CL1) e Cluster 2 (CL2). O procedimento experimental envolveu um periodo de treinamento de tres semanas; nos momentos pre e pos-treinamento foram aplicados testes de Sprint de 20 metros. Resultados: Houve uma diferenca significativa intergrupos para o CL2 versus CG no tempo, aceleracao e velocidade nos primeiros 10 metros de Sprint. O valor alfa utilizado foi p Conclusao: Estes resultados sugerem que intervencoes com intervalos intraseries (especificamente CL2) utilizando equipamento pneumatico permitem adaptacoes positivas na velocidade e aceleracao apos tres semanas de treinamento.

Paz, GA, Iglesias-Soler, E, Willardson, JM, Maia, MdF, and Miranda, H. Postexercise hypotension and heart rate variability responses subsequent to traditional, paired set, and superset resistance training methods. J Strength Cond Res 33(9): 2433-2442, 2019-The purpose of this study was to compare training volume, postexercise hypotension (PEH), and heart rate variability (HRV) responses to different strength training methods. Thirteen trained men volunteered for this study. Three training methods were completed in a randomized design, which included: Traditional Set (TS)-3 successive sets for the lying bench press (LBP), lat pulldown (LPD), incline 45° bench press (BP45), seated close-grip row (SCR), triceps extension (TE), and biceps curl (BC), with a 90-second rest interval between sets and exercises; Paired Set (PS)-3 paired sets for the LBP-LPD, BP45-SCR, and TE-BC, with a 90-second rest interval between sets and exercises; and superset (SS)-3 supersets for the LBP-LPD, BP45-SCR, and TE-BC. During the SS session, no rest was permitted between PSs, followed by 180 seconds of rest after each SS. Ten repetition-maximum (RM) loads were adopted for all exercises. Blood pressure (BP) and HRV were measured at baseline, immediately aftersession, and at 10-minute intervals until 60 minutes after session. Significantly greater training volume was noted under the SS method (8,608.6 ± 2,062.2 kg) vs. the TS method (7,527.5 ± 2,365.1 kg), respectively. Significantly greater training volume was also observed under the PS method (8,262.3 ± 2,491.2 kg) vs. the TS method (p ≤ 0.05). No main effects for HRV and PEH were noted between protocols (p > 0.05). However, similar PEH response intraprotocols were observed for the TS, PS, and SS methods (p ≤ 0.05). Considering the duration of the PEH intraprotocol, large effect sizes were noted for the SS and PS methods vs. the TS method in diastolic and mean BP. Therefore, both the PS and SS methods may be an alternative to the TS method to achieve greater total repetitions and training volume with a tendency toward a longer PEH response.

Prestes, J, Tibana, RA, de Araujo Sousa, E, da Cunha Nascimento, D, de Oliveira Rocha, P, Camarco, NF, Frade de Sousa, NM, and Willardson, JM. Strength and muscular adaptations after 6 weeks of rest-pause vs. traditional multiple-sets resistance training in trained subjects. J Strength Cond Res 33(7S): S113-S121, 2019-The purpose of this study was to compare the longitudinal effects of 6 weeks of rest-pause vs. traditional multiple-set resistance training (RT) on muscle strength, hypertrophy, localized muscular endurance, and body composition in trained subjects. Eighteen trained subjects (mean ± SD; age = 30.2 ± 6.6 years; weight = 74.8 ± 17.2 kg; height = 171.4 ± 10.3 cm) were randomly assigned to either a traditional multiple-set group (n = 9; 7 men and 2 women; 3 sets of 6 repetitions with 80% of 1-repetition maximum (1RM) and 2-minute rest intervals between sets) or a rest-pause group (n = 9; 7 men and 2 women). The results showed no significant differences (p > 0.05) between groups in 1RM strength (rest-pause: 16 ± 11% for bench press, 25 ± 17% for leg press and 16 ± 10% for biceps curl vs. traditional multiple-set: 10 ± 21% for BP, 30 ± 20% for LP and 21 ± 20% for BC). In localized muscular endurance, the rest-pause group displayed significantly greater (p < 0.05) repetitions, only for the LP exercise (rest pause: 27 ± 8% vs. traditional multiple-set: 8 ± 2%). In muscle hypertrophy, the rest-pause group displayed significantly greater (p < 0.05) thickness, only for the thigh (rest-pause: 11 ± 14% vs. traditional multiple-set: 1 ± 7%). In conclusion, RT performed with the rest-pause method resulted in similar gains in muscle strength as traditional multiple-set training. However, the rest-pause method resulted in greater gains in localized muscular endurance and hypertrophy for the thigh musculature.

Behenck, C, Sant'Ana, H, Pinto de Castro, JB, Willardson, JM, and Miranda, H. The effect of different rest intervals between agonist-antagonist paired sets on training performance and efficiency. J Strength Cond Res 36(3): 781-786, 2022-The purpose of this study was to verify the effect of different rest intervals (RIs) between agonist-antagonist paired sets (APS) on training performance and efficiency. Eighteen recreationally trained men (age: 21.5 ± 2.1 years, body mass: 74.5 ± 10.4 kg, height: 1.75 ± 0.04 m, body mass index: 24.4 ± 3.7 kg·m-2) completed 4 sessions. During each session, a 10-repetition maximum load was used for 3 APS of Bench Row + Bench Press and Lat Pull-down + Overhead Press with RI between APS sequences of 1, 2, 3 minutes (min) or self-selected RI (SRI). Total training volume (TTV), session time and efficiency were measured in all sessions. The 1-minute RI resulted in significantly less TTV vs. the other conditions (p = 0.000). The 2-minute RI resulted in significantly less TTV vs. the 3-minute RI (p = 0.002), but the SRI was not significantly different vs. the 3-minute RI. For session time, the 1-minute RI was significantly less (p = 0.000) and the 3-minute RI was significantly greater (1-minute and 2-minute RI, p = 0.000; SRI, p = 0.010) than the other conditions. Therefore, the efficiency of the 1-minute RI was significantly greater vs. the other conditions (3-minute RI and SRI, p = 0.000; 2-minute RI, p = 0.001) and the 2-minute RI was significantly greater vs. the 3-minute RI (p = 0.001). There were no significant differences in TTV, session time, and efficiency between the 2-minute RI and SRI conditions. In conclusion, the 2-minute RI and SRI conditions may present a better cost-effectiveness. It is suggested that self-selected RI can provide better performance, whereas 2-minute RI may enable greater efficiency.

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the surface electromyographic (EMG) activity of the medial (GM) and lateral (GL) heads of the gastrocnemius muscle during plantar flexion performed in standing or seated positions, and with a neutral or dorsiflexed ankle. Introduction The triceps surae (gastrocnemius and soleus) is an essential muscle group that promotes propulsion during walking, running and tasks of daily living. Methods Ten male volunteers (24.5 ± 3.6 years, weight: 75.8 ± 10 kg; height: 1.74 ± 0.07 m) performed ten repetitions of plantar flexion under four different conditions: a) standing position (SP); b) standing position with passive stretch of the gastrocnemius muscle (SPS); c) seated with the knee flexed (KF); d) seated with the knee flexed and a passive stretch of the gastrocnemius (KFS). Results The muscle activity expressed as the root mean square (RMS) was significantly higher for the GL in the SPS versus the SP condition, while there was no difference for the GM between conditions. However, for the KF condition, GM activity was significantly higher versus the KFS condition, which was not verified for the GL. Conclusions Therefore, the standing position with passive stretching of the triceps surae may be more efficient in increasing the myoelectric activity of the GL. However, the sitting position without passive stretching promoted greater GM muscle recruitment. The length/tension relationship of gastrocnemius could be used as a prescription variable during rehabilitation or conditioning programs.

Background A challenging aspect of research in sports science is designing and conducting studies that simulate actual workout scenarios, especially with application to resistance training (RT). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the effects of RT sessions performed in differing workout formats on myoelectric activity, strength performance, and metabolic markers (creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, blood lactate) over 24, 48 and 72 hours post-workout. Methods Twenty-two trained men (25.2±4.1 years, 182.1±12.3 cm and 91.2±5.9 kg) performed the following four training protocols with 10-repetition maximum loads in random order: 1) traditional set (TS): three sets were performed in succession for the barbell bench press (BP), lat pulldown (LPD), 45° incline bench press (BP45), seated close-grip row (SCR), triceps extension (TE) and biceps curl (BC) on a pulley; 2) paired set (PS): three paired sets were performed as follows: BP-LPD, BP45-SCR, and TC-B; 3) super-set (SS): similar to the PS protocol, but without rest between paired exercises; 4) circuit training (CT): one set of each exercise was performed sequentially three times. Results The results showed greater total volume under the SS (8063.2±2270.5 kg) protocol versus the TS (7356.8±2279.7 kg). Total work (repetitions) was also significantly greater for the SS and CT protocols versus the TS (P Conclusions Therefore, the practitioners should consider utilizing the SS method during time-constrained periods with the goal to achieve greater training volume in time-efficient manner versus the TS, PS and CT methods.

Berzerra, ES, Orssatto, LBR, Moura, BM, Willardson, JM, Simão, R, and Moro, ARP. Mixed session periodization as a new approach for strength, power, functional performance, and body composition enhancement in aging adults. J Strength Cond Res 32(10): 2795-2806, 2018-The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of mixed session periodization (MSP) vs. traditional periodization (TP) on strength, power, functional performance, and body composition in aging adults. Forty-five healthy aging adults were randomly divided into 3 groups: MSP, TP, and Control. Subjects were tested before the intervention for baseline values (week 4) and then repeated testing during (week 7 and week 11), as well as after the intervention (week 15). Subjects were tested on the following performance measures: 5 repetition maximum (5RM) leg press and seated leg curl; 12RM cable chest press; countermovement jump (CMJ) and squat jump; up-and-down stairs; timed up and go (TUG); and body composition. All comparisons were analyzed through a mixed-model analysis with repeated measures (group × time) and with Bonferroni post hoc tests (p ≤ 0.05). After the intervention, no significant differences were observed between experimental groups; however, the MSP and TP groups demonstrated significantly greater values vs. the Control group in the 5RM leg press (p0.01), seated leg curl (p0.01), and 12RM cable chest press (p0.001). For CMJ performance, the MSP and TP groups significantly increased at week 7 (p0.001). The MSP and TP groups significantly improved functional task performance, including TUG (p0.001), upstairs (p0.01), and downstairs (p0.01) after training. Furthermore, body composition for the lower limbs significantly changed for the MSP and TP groups, with increased fat-free mass (p0.001) and decreased fat mass (p0.01) after training. In conclusion, the MSP and TP models used in this study were equally effective in developing strength, power, and functional performance while increasing fat-free mass and improving body fat percentage in aging adults. However, it should be considered that the MSP protocol did result in greater effect sizes in lower-limb strength, lower-limb fat-free mass, up-and-down stair, and TUG performance.

Resistance exercise (RE) can be an excellent modality for glycemic control. Studies have demonstrated that a single RE session can reduce glycemia in subjects with or without diabetes. Little is known about the dose–response effect of RE on glycemic control. This study aimed to investigate the acute metabolic responses after different RE protocols. Eighty-nine males were separated into six groups that completed RE protocols: 2 sets of 18 repetitions (2 × 18 at 50% of 1-repetition maximum (1RM); n = 19); 3 sets of 12 repetitions (3 × 12 at 70% of 1RM; n = 14); 4 sets of 9 repetitions (4 × 9 at 80% of 1RM; n = 13); 6 sets of 6 repetitions (6 × 6 at 90% of 1RM; n = 19); circuit (2 × 18 at 50% of 1RM; n = 12); and a control session (n = 12). The exercise sequence consisted of 8 exercises. An oral glucose tolerance test was conducted with metabolic measurements immediately after each RE protocol and every 15 min until 120 min of recovery. All groups exhibited significantly lower values (p < 0.05) in the glucose area under the curve (AUC) when compared with control over a 120 min monitoring period. The 6 × 6 group showed a significantly lower glucose AUC versus the 3 × 12 and 4 × 9 groups (p = 0.004; p = 0.001, respectively). As for blood lactate, the control and 6 × 6 groups exhibited lower AUC values versus all other groups (p < 0.05), and AUC for glucose and lactate concentration showed a negative and significant correlation (r = –0.46; p < 0.0001). It appears that a combination of 9–12 repetitions per set and 3–4 sets per muscle group might be optimal for acute postprandial glucose control.

The aim of the present study was to compare muscular performance and body composition changes following low-volume resistance-training programs consisting of multi-joint (MJ) exercises (cable chest press and seated row) versus a combination of multi- and single-joint (MJ+SJ) exercises (cable chest press, seated row, biceps curl, and triceps extension). Thirty untrained healthy aging adults were randomly assigned to 3 groups: MJ (n = 11), MJ+SJ (n = 11), and control (n = 8). Twelve-repetition maximums (12-RMs) for the cable chest press and seated row, localized muscular endurance for the elbow flexors handgrip strength, and body composition were assessed before and after the 8-week training program. All comparisons were analyzed via a mixed-model analysis with repeated measures (group × time) and the Bonferroni post hoc test (p < 0.05). The MJ and MJ+SJ groups increased performance in the 12-RM cable chest press (MJ = 61.5% ± 24.6% and MJ+SJ = 71.1% ± 25.6%), 12-RM seated row (MJ = 46.4% ± 26.3% and MJ+SJ = 51.5% ± 21.0%), localized muscular endurance (MJ = 24.7% ± 16.7% and MJ+SJ = 37.0% ± 11.4%), and handgrip strength (MJ = 9.3% ± 10.4% and MJ+SJ = 16.6% ± 25.3%) after the intervention. Body composition (i.e., trunk and upper limb fat and lean mass) did not change for any groups. No significant differences were observed between the MJ versus the MJ+SJ protocols after the intervention for any variables. In conclusion, for aging adults, either MJ or MJ+SJ low-volume resistance training resulted in similar increases in 12-RM, localized muscular endurance, and handgrip strength, without changes in body composition after 8 weeks of training.

We investigated the effect of carbohydrate mouth rinsing on resistance exercise performance. Fifteen recreationally trained women (age 26 ± 4 y; height 1.61.9 ± 5.1 m; weight 59.5 ± 8.2 kg) completed two resistance exercise bouts consisting of three sets of five exercises (half-squat, leg press, bench press, military press, and seated row) to volitional fatigue with a 10 repetition-maximum load. Immediately prior to and during the middle of each exercise bout, subjects mouth rinsed for 10 s with 100 mL of either a 6% maltodextrin solution (CHO) or an artificially flavored solution (PLA) in a randomized, double-blind, counterbalanced fashion. Heart rate and perceived exertion were compared between conditions using a 2 (conditions) × 15 (time points) repeated measures ANOVA. Significant main effects were further analyzed using pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Total volume (exercises * sets * repetitions * load) between sessions was compared with a Student’s t-test. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05 level of confidence. The CHO resulted in more repetitions performed during half-squat, bench press, military press, and seated row, for a significantly greater (∼12%) total volume load lifted versus PLA ( p = 0.039, ES: 0.49). Rating of perceived exertion was also significantly lower in the CHO versus PLA ( p = 0.020, ES: 0.28). These data indicate that CHO mouth rinsing can enhance high-volume resistance exercise performance and lower ratings of perceived exertion.

Introduction The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effect of different rest intervals between multiple sets of the 45° angled leg press exercise (LP45) on surface electromyographic (SEMG) spectral and amplitude indices of fatigue. Methods Fifteen recreationally trained females performed three protocols in a randomized crossover design; each consisting of four sets of 10 repetitions with 1 (P1), 3 (P3), or 5 (P5) minute rest intervals between sets. Each set was performed with 70% of the LP45 ten-repetition maximum load. The SEMG data for biceps femoris (BF), vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM), and rectus femoris (RF) muscles was then evaluated. Results The SEMG amplitude change in the time coefficient (CRMS) and spectral fatigue index (Cf5) indicated higher levels of fatigue for all muscles evaluated during the P3 protocol versus the P1 and P5 protocols (p ≤ 0.05), respectively. The RF and VL muscles showed greater fatigue levels by the second and third sets; whereas, greater fatigue was shown in the VM and BF muscles by the fourth set (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusions A three-minute rest interval between sets might represent a neuromuscular window between a fatigue stated and fully recovered state in the context of neural activation. Moreover, a three minute rest interval between sets might allow for consistent recruitment of high threshold motor units over multiple sets, and thus promote a more effective stimulus for strength gains.

Purpose. To analyze and to compare the absolute and relative muscle power of the lower limbs in sedentary elderly subjects with and without heart failure. Methods. The study included 36 elderly subjects (72 ± 6.5 years, 76.8 ± 4.8 kg, 171 ± 9.4 cm) divided into two groups: sixteen patients with heart failure versus twenty patients with coronary artery disease, but without heart failure. The muscle power of the lower limbs was assessed with a half-squat exercise; three repetitions were performed with three seconds of the interval between repetitions as fast as possible in the concentric phase. For the statistical analysis, unpaired Student's t-tests were used to compare the absolute and relative muscular power between groups. Results. Subjects without heart failure had significantly greater absolute (362 ± 18.5 W vs. 438 ± 22.3 W, p = 0.015) and relative (4.6 ± 0.2 W / kg vs. 5.9 ± 0.2 W / Kg, p = 0.001) muscle power versus subjects with heart failure. Conclusion. Heart failure harms the muscular power of the lower limbs in the elderly, which may influence the prognosis and evolution of the disease and capacity functional. Objetivo. Analizar y comparar la potencia muscular absoluta y relativa de los miembros inferiores en ancianos sedentarios con y sin insuficiencia cardíaca. Métodos. El estudio incluyó a 36 ancianos (72 ± 6,5 años, 76,8 ± 4,8 kg, 171 ± 9,4 cm) divididos en dos grupos: dieciséis pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca versus veinte pacientes con enfermedad de las arterias coronarias pero sin insuficiencia cardíaca parada cardíaca. A potência muscular dos membros inferiores foi avaliada com um exercício de meio agachamento através de três repetições executadas com três segundos de intervalo entre elas e com a máxima velocidade na fase concêntrica. La potencia muscular relativa y absoluta de las extremidades inferiores se evaluó con un ejercicio de media sentadilla. Para el análisis estadístico, se utilizaron pruebas t de Student para datos no apareados para comparar la potencia muscular absoluta y relativa entre grupos. Resultados. Los individuos sin insuficiencia cardíaca tenían una potencia muscular absoluta significativamente mayor (362 ± 18,5 W frente a 438 ± 22,3 W, p = 0,015) y relativa (4,6 ± 0,2 W / kg frente a 5,9 ± 0,2 W / kg, p = 0,001) en comparación con las personas con insuficiencia cardíaca. Conclusión. La insuficiencia cardíaca deteriora la potencia muscular de los miembros inferiores en el anciano, lo que puede influir en el pronóstico y evolución de la enfermedad y la capacidad funcional. Objetivo. Analisar e comparar a potência muscular absoluta e relativa dos membros inferiores em idosos sedentários com e sem insuficiência cardíaca. Métodos. O estudo incluiu 36 idosos (72 ± 6,5 anos, 76,8 ± 4,8 kg, 171 ± 9,4 cm) divididos em dois grupos: dezesseis pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca versus vinte pacientes com doença arterial coronariana, mas sem insuficiência cardíaca. A potência muscular dos membros inferiores foi avaliada com um exercício de meio agachamento através de três repetições executadas com três segundos de intervalo entre elas e com a máxima velocidade na fase concêntrica. Para análise estatística, os testes t Student’s não pareados foi usado ​​para comparar a potência muscular absoluta e relativa entre os grupos. Resultados. Indivíduos sem insuficiência cardíaca tiveram significativamente maior potência muscular absoluta (362 ± 18,5 W vs. 438 ± 22,3 W, p = 0,015) e relativa (4,6 ± 0,2 W / kg vs. 5,9 ± 0,2 W / Kg, p = 0,001) comparados com os indivíduos com insuficiência cardíaca. Conclusão. A insuficiência cardíaca prejudica a potência muscular dos membros inferiores em idosos, o que pode influenciar no prognóstico e na evolução da doença e na capacidade funcional.

Farias, DdA, Willardson, JM, Paz, GA, Bezerra, EdS, and Miranda, H. Maximal strength performance and muscle activation for the bench press and triceps extension exercises adopting dumbbell, barbell and machine modalities over multiple sets. J Strength Cond Res 31(7): 1879-1887, 2017-The purpose of this study was to investigate muscle activation, total repetitions, and training volume for 3 bench press (BP) exercise modes (Smith machine [SMBP], barbell [BBP], and dumbbell [DBP]) that were followed by a triceps extension (TE) exercise. Nineteen trained men performed 3 testing protocols in random order, which included: (P1) SMBP + TE; (P2) BBP + TE; and (P3) DBP + TE. Each protocol involved 4 sets with a 10-repetition maximum (RM) load, immediately followed by a TE exercise that was also performed for 4 sets with a 10RM load. A 2-minute rest interval was adopted between sets and exercises. Surface electromyographic activity was assessed for the pectoralis major (PM), anterior deltoid (AD), biceps brachii (BB), and triceps brachii (TB). The results indicated that significantly higher total repetitions were achieved for the DBP (31.2 ± 3.2) vs. the BBP (27.8 ± 4.8). For the TE, significantly greater volume was achieved when this exercise was performed after the BBP (1,204.4 ± 249.4 kg) and DBP (1,216.8 ± 287.5 kg) vs. the SMBP (1,097.5 ± 193 kg). The DBP elicited significantly greater PM activity vs. the BBP. The SMBP elicited significantly greater AD activity vs. the BBP and DBP. During the different BP modes, the SMBP and BBP elicited significantly greater TB activity vs. the DBP. However, the DBP elicited significantly greater BB activity vs. the SMBP and BBP, respectively. During the succeeding TE exercise, significantly greater activity of the TB was observed when this exercise was performed after the BBP vs. the SMBP and DBP. Therefore, it seems that the variation in BP modes does influence both repetition performance and muscle activation patterns during the TE when these exercises are performed in succession.

Machado, W, Paz, G, Mendes, L, Maia, M, Winchester, JB, Lima, V, Willardson, JM, and Miranda, H. Myoeletric activity of the quadriceps during leg press exercise performed with differing techniques. J Strength Cond Res 31(2): 422-429, 2017-The quadriceps muscle supplies the motive force for dynamic knee extension. During this action, the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and vastus lateralis (VL) co-contract to stabilize the patella as it tracks within the patellofemoral groove. The purpose of this study was to analyze surface electromyographic (SEMG) responses for the VL, VMO, rectus femoris (RF), and biceps femoris (BF), as well as the VMO:VL ratio during an open-kinetic chain 45° angled leg press (LP45). The traditional LP45 technique was compared with 2 alternative LP45 exercise techniques that used a physioball and elastic band, respectively. Thirteen female college students performed 3 protocols in random order: TRAD-1 LP45 set performed using the traditional exercise technique, PBALL-1 LP45 set performed with a physioball held between the knee joints, and PEB-1 LP45 set performed with an elastic band proximal to the knee joints. Ten repetitions at 70% of a 10 repetition maximum load were performed in each protocol, and the SEMG data were recorded for the VMO, VL, RF, and BF muscles. Significant increases in VMO activity were noted during PBALL vs. PEB (p = 0.001) and TRAD (p = 0.002). Higher VMO activity was noted during TRAD vs. PEB (p = 0.001). Greater VL activity was noted during PBALL vs. TRAD (p = 0.0001) and PEB (p = 0.0001). The PBALL condition elicited a greater VMO:VL ratio during the concentric phase vs. the PEB (p = 0.001) and TRAD (p = 0.001) protocols. Greater RF activity was observed during PEB vs. TRAD (p = 0.001) and PBALL (p = 0.001). Therefore, practitioners should consider placing a physioball between the knees during the LP45 exercise as an alternative technique when greater overall quadriceps activity is desired for clinical rehabilitation or a muscle strengthening program.

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of multi- to single-joint or the reverse exercise order on repetition performance and perceived exertion for the pectoralis major. Fourteen trained men (24.05 ± 4.17 yrs, 78.85 ± 3.51 kg, 175.42 ± 4.01 cm) underwent two different training sequences (SEQ1 and SEQ2). In SEQ1, all subjects performed 5 sets for maximal repetitions, with a 2-min rest interval, of the bench press followed by the machine chest fly with 10 repetitions maximum load. In SEQ2, the same procedures were repeated, but with the reverse order. The t-test did not show any differences (p = 0.140) in total workout repetitions between SEQ1 (62.22 ± 11.00 repetitions) and SEQ2 (55.40 ± 8.51 repetitions). Conversely, the total repetition number for the bench press exercise was significantly greater (p = 0.001) following SEQ1 (34.36 ± 4.68 repetitions) compared to SEQ2 (25.85 ± 6.73 repetitions). In contrast, the total repetition number for the machine chest fly exercise following SEQ2 was significantly greater (p = 0.001) (33.50 + 4.11 repetitions) compared to SEQ1 (27.85 ± 6.52 repetitions). Despite no significant differences found for the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) values between SEQ1 and SEQ2 for the barbell bench press in all sets (p ≥ 0.083), significantly higher RPE values for the machine chest fly were observed over the first three sets following SEQ1 compared to SEQ2 (p < 0.01). In conclusion, the total workout repetitions were not significantly different when performing the traditional multi- to single-joint or the reverse exercise order when training the pectoralis major muscle.

Background: Foam rolling (FR) has become very popular in recent years, however, the practice of FR between sets of resistance training (RT) for the lower limbs needs further examination. Purpose: Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of FR for the agonists (quadriceps) and antagonists (hamstrings) between multiple sets of the leg extension on repetition maximum performance (RM), fatigue resistance index (FRI), and muscle soreness (MS). Study design: Quasi-experimental clinical trial. Methods: Twenty trained men participated in this study (30.35 ± 6.56 years, 1.77 ± 0.05 cm, 87.70 ± 7.6 kg) and attended seven sessions with 48 h between sessions, (one familiarization session, two 10-RM test and retest sessions, and four experimental sessions). The four experimental sessions were performed in random order and included: agonist foam rolling (AFR), antagonist foam rolling (ANTFR), agonist/antagonist foam rolling (A/ANTFR), and traditional control (TP, without foam rolling). All sessions consisted of three sets for maximal repetitions with a 10-RM load for the leg extension. In the AFR and ANTFR sessions, there was a 120 s rest interval between sets, during which FR was done for the agonists or antagonists, respectively. In the A/ANTFR protocol, there was a 120 s rest interval between sets, during which FR was done for the agonists and antagonists. In the traditional protocol (TP), there was a 120 s passive rest interval between sets. Results: Regarding the total training volume (TTV), significant differences were noted between sessions (F3,57 = 11.014, p = 0.0001). The AFR, ANTFR, and A/ANTFR sessions had significantly higher TTV versus the TP (p &lt, 0.05). Regarding the FRI, significant differences were noted between sessions (F3,57 = 2917, p = 0.042). A significantly higher fatigue index was shown for the ANTFR and AFR sessions versus the TP (p &lt, 0.05). Regarding the total number of repetitions, significant differences were noted between sessions (F3,57 = 11.086, p = 0.0001). The total number of repetitions was significantly higher in the A/ANTFR, ANTFR, and AFR versus the TP session (p &lt, 0.05). MS was significantly lower in the A/ANTFR, ANTFR, and AFR sessions versus the TP session (p &lt, 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, foam rolling between sets for the agonist or antagonist separately or in succession, resulted in greater neuromuscular performance and higher fatigue indices, as well as reducing the perception of acute muscle soreness.

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of rest period duration (1 vs. 3 minute between sets) on acute hormone responses to a high-intensity and equal volume bench press workout. Ten resistance-trained men (25.2 ± 5.6 years; 78.2 ± 5.7 kg; 176.7 ± 5.4 cm; bench press relative strength: 1.3 ± 0.1 kg per kilogram of body mass) performed 2 bench press workouts separated by 1 week. Each workout consisted of 5 sets of 3 repetitions performed at 85% of 1 repetition maximum, with either 1- or 3-minute rest between sets. Circulating concentrations of total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), cortisol (C), testosterone/cortisol ratio (TT/C), and growth hormone (GH) were measured at preworkout (PRE), and immediately (T0), 15 minutes (T15), and 30 minutes (T30) postworkout. Rating of perceived exertion was recorded before and after each set. For TT, both rest lengths enhanced all postexercise verifications (T0, T15, and T30) compared with PRE, with 1 minute showing decreases on T15 and T30 compared with T0. For FT, both 1- and 3-minute rest protocols triggered augmentations on distinct postexercise moments (T0 and T15 for 1 minute; T15 and T30 for 3-minute) compared with PRE. The C values did not change throughout any postexercise verification for either rests. The TT/C ratio was significantly elevated for both rests in all postexercise moments compared with PRE. Finally, GH values did not change for both rest lengths. In conclusion, although both short and long rest periods enhanced acute testosterone values, the longer rest promoted a long-lasting elevation for both TT and FT.

This study evaluated the effect of ischemic preconditioning (IPC) on resistance exercise performance in the lower limbs. Thirteen men participated in a randomized crossover design that involved 3 separate sessions (IPC, PLACEBO, and control). A 12-repetition maximum (12RM) load for the leg extension exercise was assessed through test and retest sessions before the first experimental session. The IPC session consisted of 4 cycles of 5 minutes of occlusion at 220 mm Hg of pressure alternated with 5 minutes of reperfusion at 0 mm Hg for a total of 40 minutes. The PLACEBO session consisted of 4 cycles of 5 minutes of cuff administration at 20 mm Hg of pressure alternated with 5 minutes of pseudo-reperfusion at 0 mm Hg for a total of 40 minutes. The occlusion and reperfusion phases were conducted alternately between the thighs, with subjects remaining seated. No ischemic pressure was applied during the control (CON) session and subjects sat passively for 40 minutes. Eight minutes after IPC, PLACEBO, or CON, subjects performed 3 repetition maximum sets of the leg extension (2-minute rest between sets) with the predetermined 12RM load. Four minutes after the third set for each condition, blood lactate was assessed. The results showed that for the first set, the number of repetitions significantly increased for both the IPC (13.08 ± 2.11; p = 0.0036) and PLACEBO (13.15 ± 0.88; p = 0.0016) conditions, but not for the CON (11.88 ± 1.07; p > 0.99) condition. In addition, the IPC and PLACEBO conditions resulted insignificantly greater repetitions vs. the CON condition on the first set (p = 0.015; p = 0.007) and second set (p = 0.011; p = 0.019), but not on the third set (p = 0.68; p > 0.99). No difference (p = 0.465) was found in the fatigue index and lactate concentration between conditions. These results indicate that IPC and PLACEBO IPC may have small beneficial effects on repetition performance over a CON condition. Owing to potential for greater discomfort associated with the IPC condition, it is suggested that ischemic preconditioning might be practiced gradually to assess tolerance and potential enhancements to exercise performance.

The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of different interset rest intervals on performance of single- and multijoint exercises with near-maximal loads. Fifteen trained men (26.40 ± 4.94 years, 79.00 ± 7.10 kg, 176.6 ± 6.06 cm, 11.80 ± 2.47% body fat, and bench press relative strength: 1.26 ± 0.19 kg·kg of body mass) performed eight sessions (2 exercises × 4 interset rest intervals); each consisting of 5 sets with a 3RM load. The exercises tested were the machine chest fly (MCF) for the single-joint exercise and the barbell bench press (BP) for the multi-joint exercise with 1, 2, 3, and 5 minutes of rest between sets. The results indicated that for the MCF, significantly higher total number of repetitions were completed for the 2- (12.60 ± 2.35 reps; p = 0.027), 3- (13.66 ± 1.84 reps; p = 0.001), and 5-minute (12.93 ± 2.25 reps; p = 0.001) vs. the 1-minute (10.33 ± 2.60 reps) protocol. For the BP, a significantly higher total number of repetitions were completed for 3- (11.66 ± 2.79 reps; p = 0.002) and 5-minute (12.93 ± 2.25 reps; p = 0.001) vs. the 1-minute protocol (7.60 ± 3.52 reps). In addition, subjects completed significantly higher total number of repetitions for the 5-minute (12.93 ± 2.25 reps; p = 0.016) vs. 2-minute (9.53 ± 3.11 reps) protocol. Both exercises presented similar and progressive reductions in repetition performance for all rest protocols along the 5 sets, starting as soon as the second set for the shorter 1-minute rest protocol. In conclusion, to maintain the best consistency in repetition performance, rest intervals of 2 minutes between sets are sufficient for the MCF and 3-5 minutes for the BP. Thus, it appears that longer acute recovery time is needed for a multijoint (core) exercise such as the BP vs. a single-joint (assistance) exercise such as the MCF.

The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and blood pressure (BP) responses during and after circuit resistance training with 1 min. (CIR1) vs. 2 min. (CIR2) rest intervals between exercises in liver cirrhosis patients. 10 patients (7 women, 3 men) participated in 2 experimental sessions (CIR1 and CIR2) in random order. Each experimental session consisted of 6 exercises performed for 3 sets of 10 repetitions with 70% of the 10-RM load. The only difference between experimental sessions was taking either 1 min. (CIR1) or 2 min. (CIR2) of rest between exercises. Prior and during each session, BP, HR and HRV (beat-to-beat intervals) were assessed. Training efficiency were significant higher for CIR1 when compared to CIR2, since same total training volume was performed in less time. Both protocols elicited significant changes in HR, SBP, and SampEn. Based on the ∆HR and ∆IRR between protocols, higher cardiovascular stress was observed for CIR1 vs. CIR2. However, the patients presented a similar recovery pattern between experimental sessions, and did not present significant alterations in the HRV at 60 min post-workout. In summary, the fast adjustment of autonomic modulation in HRV and BP suggests that circuit resistance training with 1-min or 2-min rest intervals between exercises elicits typical cardiovascular responses in liver cirrhosis patients.

This study compared the effect of a strength training session performed at different exercise orders and rest intervals on blood pressure and heart rate variability (HRV). Fifteen trained men performed different upper body exercise sequences [large to small muscle mass (SEQA) and small to large muscle mass (SEQB)] in randomized order with rest intervals between sets and exercises of 40 or 90 seconds. Fifteen repetition maximum loads were tested to control the training intensity and the total volume load. The results showed, significant reductions for systolic blood pressure (SBP) for all sequences compared to baseline and, post-exercise: SEQA90 at 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 minutes; SEQA40 and SEQB40 at 20 minutes and SEQB90 at 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 minutes. For diastolic blood pressure (DBP), significant reductions were found for three sequences compared to baseline and, post-exercise: SEQA90 and SEQA40 at 50 and 60 minutes; SEQB40 at 10, 30 and 60 minutes. For HRV, there were significant differences in frequency domain for all sequences compared to baseline. In conclusion, when performing upper body strength training sessions, it is suggested that 90 second rest intervals between sets and exercises promotes a post-exercise hypotensive response in SBP. The 40 second rest interval between sets and exercises was associated with greater cardiac stress, and might be contraindicated when working with individuals that exhibit symptoms of cardiovascular disease.

Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to compare different rest period lengths between consecutive one maximum repetition bench press attempts on performance and ratings of perceived exertion. Method: Eighteen trained men (27.95 ± 4.25 years; 81.00 ± 9.21 kg; 174.62 ± 3.34 cm; bench press relative strength 1.33 ± 0.11 kg/kg of body mass) participated in three randomly ordered sessions that required two consecutive one maximum repetition bench press attempts with 20, 40, or 60-s rest between attempts. Results: The Cochran Q analysis showed no significant differences in the ability to successfully perform a second one maximum repetition attempt with 20, 40, or 60-s rest between attempts (p = 0.882). Specifically, no significant differences were found in the successful completion of the first and second attempts for the 20-s (p = 0.317), 40-s (p = 0.083), and 60-s (p = 0.157) trials, respectively. Briefly, for both 20 and 60-s rest conditions Δ% = 88.88% of subjects successfully performed the second attempt and, for the 40-s protocol, only Δ% = 83.33% completed. For the pre and post-set ratings of perceived exertion, the shorter rest period (20-s) promoted significantly higher values compared to the longer rest periods (pre-set ratings of perceived exertion, p = 0.04; post-set ratings of perceived exertion, p = 0.023). Conclusions: The results of this study can be applied to recreationally trained individuals with the intent of generating a time-efficient process for conducting a valid and reliable one maximum repetition bench press assessment.

BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to compare traditional strength training (TST) versus complex and contrast training (CCT) on sprint, change of direction speed (COD) and squat jump (SJ) in young male soccer players. METHODS Twenty-two soccer players (age: 18.4±0.4 years, body mass: 70.2±9.1 kg, height: 179.9±7.5 cm), were randomly assigned to one of two groups: TST (N.=12) and CCT (N.=10). The study was conducted using a randomized experimental design over an eight-week period. The participants assigned to the CCT group performed high-power exercises paired with high-velocity exercises. The participants assigned to the TST group performed resistance exercises in a straight-set forma. During the study period, sprint tests for 5, 10, 20 and 30 m split times, COD and SJ were applied. A two-way ANOVA was applied, and the alpha level was P

Research examining exercise with blood flow restriction (BFR) has indicated positive findings for the use of this novel training modality in both health and performance-related outcomes. However, eccentric resistance training combined with BFR has yet to be fully examined. Therefore, the objective of this pilot study was to investigate the muscular strength and hypertrophic responses before and following a training intervention involving resistance exercise utilizing only eccentric muscle actions with or without BFR. Eighteen resistance-trained males were randomly assigned to one of three training conditions following pre-testing measures: eccentric resistance training only, eccentric resistance training with BFR, and a control training group. Our findings suggest that four weeks of submaximal eccentric resistance training performed to repetition failure, with or without BFR, may represent alternative means of obtaining increases in muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) in resistance-trained males. Although the addition of BFR did reduce training volume, it did not result in superior adaptations.

One of the fundamental adaptations observed with resistance training (RT) is muscle hypertrophy. Conventional and isokinetic machines provide different forms of mechanical stress, and it is possible that these two training modes could promote differing degrees of hypertrophic adaptations. There is a lack of data comparing the selective hypertrophy of the quadriceps musculature after training with a conventional knee extension machine versus an isokinetic machine. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the selective hypertrophy of the quadriceps musculature and knee extension maximal isometric torque after 14 weeks of conventional versus isokinetic RT. Thirty-five men were assigned to three groups: control group and training groups (conventional and isokinetic) performed three sets of unilateral knee extensions per session with a progressive loading scheme twice a week. Prior to and following the intervention, maximal isometric knee extensor torque was measured using an isokinetic dynamometer, and muscle thickness (MT) of quadriceps femoris muscles was assessed via ultrasound. The results indicated non-uniform changes in MT between the muscles that comprise the quadriceps femoris group. For the conventional group, significantly greater increases in rectus femoris thickness were evident versus all other quadriceps muscles (14%). For the isokinetic group, increases in RF thickness (11%) were significantly greater in comparison with the vastus intermedius only. Although the muscle thickness did not increase for all the quadriceps femoris muscles, the relative rectus femoris adaptation suggested a selective hypertrophy favouring this portion.

Miranda, H, Maia, MF, Paz, GA, de Souza, JAAA, Simao, R, Farias, DA, and Willardson, JM. Repetition performance and blood lactate responses adopting different recovery periods between training sessions in trained men. J Strength Cond Res 32(12): 3340-3347, 2018-The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of different recovery periods (24, 48, and 72 hours) between repeated resistance training (RT) sessions for the upper-body muscles on repetition performance and blood lactate responses in trained men. Sixteen recreationally trained men (age: 26.1 ± 3.1 years; height: 179 ± 4.5 cm; body mass: 82.6 ± 4.0 kg, 4.5 ± 2.2 years of RT experience) participated in this study. Eight repetition maximum (8RM) loads were determined for the bench press (BP), 30° incline bench press (BP30), and 45° incline bench press (BP45) exercises. To assess the effects of different recovery periods between repeated training sessions, 3 protocols were performed in randomized order, including 24 hours (P24), 48 hours (P48), and 72 hours (P72). Each RT session consisted of performing 4 repetition maximum sets of the BP, BP30, and BP45 with 8RM loads and 2-minute rest intervals between sets. Blood lactate levels were measured presession (PRE), immediately postsession (POST), 3 minutes postsession (P3), and 5 minutes postsession (P5). For the P24 protocol, significant decreases in repetition performance were found between sessions for the BP, BP30, and BP45 exercises, respectively. When considering session 2 only, the total work (repetition × sets) was significantly higher under P48 and P72 compared with P24 for the BP30 and BP45 exercises. Blood lactate levels (i.e., POST, P3, and P5) significantly increased for session 2 under the P24 compared with the P48 and P72 protocols, respectively. Therefore, coaches and practitioners who need to accomplish a higher training volume for the upper-body muscles should adopt recovery periods longer than 24 hours between sessions that train the same or similar muscle groups.

Recent evidence suggests that exercising the antagonist musculature acutely enhances subsequent performance for the agonist musculature. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of different rest intervals between sets for exercises that involve antagonistic muscle groups, a technique referred to as antagonist paired sets (APS). Fifteen recreationally trained men were tested for knee extension (KE) exercise performance, with or without previous knee flexion (KF) exercise for the antagonist musculature. The following protocols were performed in random order with 10 repetition maximum loads for the KF and KE exercises: (a) traditional protocol (TP)-1 set of KE only to repetition failure; (b) paired sets with minimal allowable rest (PMR)-1 set of KF followed immediately by a set of KE; (c) P30-30-second rest between paired sets of KF and KE; (d) P1-1-minute rest between paired sets; (e) P3-3-minute rest between paired sets; and (f) P5-5-minute rest between paired sets. The number of repetitions performed and electromyographic (EMG) activity of vastus lateralis, vastus medialis (VM), and rectus femoris (RF) muscles were recorded during the KE set in each protocol. It was demonstrated that significantly greater KE repetitions were completed during the PMR, P30, and P1 protocols vs. the TP protocol. Significantly greater EMG activity was demonstrated for the RF muscle during the KE exercise in the PMR and P30 vs. the TP, P3, and P5, respectively. In addition, significantly greater EMG activity was demonstrated for the VM muscle during the PMR vs. all other protocols. The results of this study indicate that no rest or relatively shorter rest intervals (30 seconds and 1 minute) between APS might be more effective to elicit greater agonist repetition enhancement and muscle activation.

It has been hypothesized that lifting light loads to muscular failure will activate the full spectrum of MUs and thus bring about muscular adaptations similar to high-load training. The purpose of this study was to investigate EMG activity during low- versus high-load training during performance of a multi-joint exercise by well-trained subjects.Employing a within-subject design, 10 young, resistance-trained men performed sets of the leg press at different intensities of load: a high-load (HL) set at 75% of 1-RM and a low-load (LL) set at 30% of 1-RM. The order of performance of the exercises was counterbalanced between participants, so that half of the subjects performed LL first and the other half performed HL first, separated by 15 min rest. Surface electromyography (EMG) was used to assess mean and peak muscle activation of the vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, and biceps femoris.Significant main effects for trials and muscles were found (p0.01). Significantly greater peak EMG activity was found during the HL set (M = 177.3, SD = 89.53) compared to the LL set (M = 137.73, SD = 95.35). Significantly greater mean EMG activity was found during the HL set (M = 63.7, SD = 37.23) compared to the LL set (M = 41.63, SD = 28.03).Results indicate that training with a load of 30% 1-RM to momentary muscular failure does not maximally activate the full motor unit pool of the quadriceps femoris and hamstrings during performance of multi-joint lower body exercise.

The purpose of the study was to compare core muscle activation of the tradition prone plank with a modified version performed with a long-lever and posterior-tilt using surface electromyography. To further determine if a specific component of this modified plank was more effective than the other in enhancing muscle activity, the plank with a long lever and the plank with a posterior pelvic tilt were studied individually. Nineteen participants performed all four variations of the plank for 30 seconds in a randomized order with 5-minute rest between exercise bouts. Compared to the traditional prone plank, the long-lever posterior-tilt plank displayed a significantly increased activation of the upper rectus abdominis (p < 0.001), lower abdominal stabilizers (p < 0.001), and external oblique (p < 0.001). The long-lever plank showed significantly greater activity compared to the traditional plank in the upper rectus abdominis (p = 0.015) and lower abdominal stabilizers (p < 0.001), while the posterior tilt plank elicited greater activity in the external oblique (p = 0.028). In conclusion, the long-lever posterior-tilt plank significantly increases muscle activation compared to the traditional prone plank. The long-lever component tends to contribute more to these differences than the posterior-tilt component.

A growing body of research has demonstrated the effectiveness of exercise (low-intensity resistance training, walking, cycling) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) for increased muscular strength and hypertrophy. The BFR is achieved via the application of external pressure over the proximal portion of the upper or lower extremities. The external pressure applied is sufficient to maintain arterial inflow while occluding venous outflow of blood distal to the occlusion site. With specific reference to low-intensity resistance training, the ability to significantly increase muscle strength and hypertrophy when combined with BFR is different from the traditional paradigm, which suggests that lifting only higher intensity loads increases such characteristics. The purpose of this review was to discuss the relevant literature with regard to the type and magnitude of acute responses and chronic adaptations associated with BFR exercise protocols vs. traditional non-BFR exercise protocols. Furthermore, the mechanisms that stimulate such responses and adaptations will be discussed in the context of neural, endocrine, and metabolic pathways. Finally, recommendations will be discussed for the practitioner in the prescription of exercise with BFR.

Objective: To investigate the acute effects of different antagonist manipulation protocols on maximal repetition performance and muscle activation during seated row (SR) exercise. Methods: Fifteen men (22.4 ± 1.1 years old, height 175 cm ± 5.5, weight 76.6 kg ± 7, and 12.3 ± 2.1 of body fat percentage) with previous resistance training experience (3.5 ± 1.2 years) performed four experimental protocols: (TP) one set to repetition failure of SR exercise; (AS) Antagonist static stretching for the pectoralis major (PM) followed by one set of SR; (PNFA) Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation for PM followed by one set of the SR; (APS) One set of the bench press with a 10 RM loads followed by one set of the SR. The maximal repetitions and the electromyographic (EMG) signal were recorded for the latissimus dorsi (LD), biceps brachii (BB), triceps brachii lateral head (TL), and PM during the SR. Results: A significant increase in SR repetition performance was noted for the APS (14 ± 1) versus the TP (9 ± 1.2, P = 0.0001), PNFA (10 ± 1.5, P = 0.001), and AS (12 ± 1.5, P = 0.004) protocols. A significant increase in SR repetitions was also noted for the AS versus the TP (P = 0.001) and PNFA (P = 0.002) protocols. The muscle activation of the BB and LD were significantly higher during the APS and AS versus the PNFA and TP sessions. Conclusions: These results suggest that either using the APS or AS approaches can facilitate an increase in SR repetition performance versus traditional resistance exercise sets.

Figueiredo, T, Willardson, JM, Miranda, H, Bentes, CM, Machado Reis, V, Freitas de Salles, B, and Simao, R. Influence of rest interval length between sets on blood pressure and heart rate variability after a strength training session performed by prehypertensive men. J Strength Cond Res 30(7): 1813-1824, 2016-The purposes of this study were to compare the effects of 2 different rest interval lengths between sets and exercises during strength training (ST) on blood pressure (BP) and heart rate variability (HRV) in prehypertensive trained men, and to verify how HRV influences BP. Eleven volunteer subjects (age: 26.1 ± 3.6 years; body mass: 74.1 ± 7.9 kg; height: 172.1 ± 4.1 cm; % body fat: 18.3 ± 6.3; ST experience: 1.7 ± 0.8 years) participated in this study. After assessing one repetition maximum (1RM) loads for the free weight bench press, lat pull-down, shoulder press, biceps curl, triceps extension, leg press, leg extension, and leg curl exercises; subjects performed 2 sessions with different rest intervals between sets and exercises in random order and 72 hours apart. Each ST session consisted of performing 3 sets of eight to 10 repetitions at 70% of a 1RM for each exercise, with either 1-minute (sequence 1 [SEQ1]) or 2-minute (sequence 2 [SEQ2]) rest intervals between sets and exercises, respectively. Before and after each session, BP and HRV (low frequency band, high frequency [HF] band, and square root of the mean squared difference of successive RR-interval index) were tracked for 60 minutes. The results demonstrated a postexercise hypotensive response (PEH) after both rest interval conditions (p ≤ 0.05). Additionally, increases in cardiac stress were noted after SEQ1, with a greater withdrawal in parasympathetic activity vs. baseline as noted in the HF band at 1-, 10-, and 20-minute postexercise (p ≤ 0.05). These results indicate that both sequences provided an effective stimulus for a PEH. Therefore, strength and conditioning professionals may prescribe 1- or 2-minute rest between sets and exercises when the goal is to reduce BP after training sessions. However, resting 1 minute between sets and exercises was associated with greater cardiac stress, and so this may necessitate prescription of longer rest intervals between sets and exercises when working with individuals who have been diagnosed with cardiovascular dysfunction.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of supra-physiological doses of testosterone (TES) on membrane oxidation of activated human neutrophils in vitro using an innovative and sensitive technique: the real-time detection with the fluorescence probe C11-BODIPY(581/591). Methodological controls were performed with the lipid-soluble and powerful antioxidant astaxanthin at different neutrophil density cultures. Neutrophils from nine healthy young men (23.4 ± 2.5 years, 174.4 ± 7.0 cm height, and 78.3 ± 7.0 kg weight) were isolated and treated with 0.1 or 10 μM TES for 24 h and subsequently labeled with the free radical-sensitive probe C11-BODIPY(581/591) for monitoring membrane oxidation after neutrophil activation with phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA). First-order exponential decay kinetic indicated that both 0.1 and 10 μM TES severely increased baseline membrane oxidation in non-activated human neutrophils (compared to control). However, similar kinetics of membrane oxidation were observed in control and 0.1 μM TES-treated neutrophils after PMA activation, whereas chemical activation did not alter the baseline higher rates of membrane oxidation in 10 μM TES-treated neutrophils. The data presented here support the hypothesis that TES exerts distinct effects on the membrane oxidation of human neutrophils, depending on its dose (here, 10(2) to 10(4)-fold higher than physiological levels in men) and on PMA activation of the oxidative burst. Furthermore, this paper also presents an innovative application of the free radical-sensitive probe C11-BODIPY(581/591) for monitoring (auto-induced) membrane oxidation as an important parameter of viability and, thus, responsiveness of immune cells in inflammatory processes.