Resistance training variable manipulations are less relevant than intrinsic biology in affecting muscle fiber hypertrophy.

We aimed to investigate whether muscle fiber cross-sectional area (fCSA) and associated molecular processes could be differently affected at the group and individual level by manipulating resistance training (RT) variables. Twenty resistance-trained subjects had each leg randomly allocated to either a standard RT (RT-CON: without specific variables manipulations) or a variable RT (RT-VAR: manipulation of load, volume, muscle action, and rest interval at each RT session). Muscle fCSA, satellite cell (SC) pool, myonuclei content, and gene expression were assessed before and after training (chronic effect). Gene expression was assessed 24 h after the last training session (acute effect). RT-CON and RT-VAR increased fCSA and myonuclei domain in type I and II fibers after training (p < 0.05). SC and myonuclei content did not change for both conditions (p > 0.05). Pax-7, MyoD, MMP-2 and COL3A1 (chronic) and MGF, Pax-7, and MMP-9 (acute) increased similar for RT-CON and RT-VAR (p < 0.05). The increase in acute MyoG expression was significantly higher for the RT-VAR than RT-CON (p < 0.05). We found significant correlation between RT-CON and RT-VAR for the fCSA changes (r = 0.89). fCSA changes were also correlated to satellite cells (r = 0.42) and myonuclei (r = 0.50) changes. Heatmap analyses showed coupled changes in fCSA, SC, and myonuclei responses at the individual level, regardless of the RT protocol. The high between and low within-subject variability regardless of RT protocol suggests that the intrinsic biological factors seem to be more important to explain the magnitude of fCSA gains in resistance-trained subjects.

Interrelated but Not Time-Aligned Response in Myogenic Regulatory Factors Demethylation and mRNA Expression after Divergent Exercise Bouts.

INTRODUCTION: DNA methylation regulates exercise-induced changes in the skeletal muscle transcriptome. However, the specificity and the time course responses in the myogenic regulatory factors DNA methylation and mRNA expression after divergent exercise modes are unknown. PURPOSE: This study aimed to compare the time course changes in DNA methylation and mRNA expression for selected myogenic regulatory factors ( MYOD1 , MYF5 , and MYF6 ) immediately after, 4 h after, and 8 h after a single bout of resistance exercise (RE), high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE), and concurrent exercise (CE). METHODS: Nine healthy but untrained males (age, 23.9 ± 2.8 yr; body mass, 70.1 ± 14.9 kg; peak oxygen uptake [V̇O 2peak ], 41.4 ± 5.2 mL·kg -1 ·min -1 ; mean ± SD) performed a counterbalanced, randomized order of RE (4 × 8-12 repetition maximum), HIIE (12 × 1 min sprints at V̇O 2peak running velocity), and CE (RE followed by HIIE). Skeletal muscle biopsies (vastus lateralis) were taken before (REST) immediately (0 h), 4 h, and 8 h after each exercise bout. RESULTS: Compared with REST, MYOD1 , MYF5 , and MYF6 , mean methylation across all CpGs analyzed was reduced after 4 and 8 h in response to all exercise protocols ( P < 0.05). Reduced levels of MYOD1 methylation were observed after HIIE and CE compared with RE ( P < 0.05). Compared with REST, all exercise bouts increased mRNA expression over time ( MYOD1 at 4 and 8 h, and MYF6 at 4 h; P < 0.05). MYF5 mRNA expression was lower after 4 h compared with 0 h and higher at 8 h compared with 4 h ( P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: We observed an interrelated but not time-aligned response between the exercise-induced changes in myogenic regulatory factors demethylation and mRNA expression after divergent exercise modes. Despite divergent contractile stimuli, changes in DNA methylation and mRNA expression in skeletal muscle were largely confined to the late (4-8 h) recovery period and similar between the different exercise challenges.

Effects of eccentric exercise on systemic concentrations of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandin (E2): comparison between young and postmenopausal women.

The present study aimed to analyze the magnitude of muscle damage and inflammatory responses induced by eccentric exercise in young (YW) and postmenopausal women (PMW). Seventeen healthy women (nine YW, 23.89 ± 2.03 years; and eight PMW, 51.13 ± 5.08 years) performed five sets of six maximal eccentric actions of the elbow flexors. Changes in isometric strength, range of motion, muscle soreness, and upper-arm circumference were evaluated pre, post, 24, 48, and 72 h following eccentric exercise. Changes in creatine kinase activity, interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) were measured pre, 24, 48, and 72 h following eccentric exercise. For intra and inter-group analysis, a two-way repeated measures ANOVA was applied followed by a Tukey's post hoc test. Pearson's correlation was used to analyze the correlations between variables. It was observed no differences between groups for the markers of muscle damage, although significant modifications (p < 0.05) occurred within groups throughout time for all variables. Post menopausal women showed significantly higher values for TNF-α (p < 0.05). Also, IL-6 presented superior pre value for PMW. For YW, IL-6 and IL-10 values increased 72 h post-eccentric exercise compared to pre. Further, IL-10 was higher for YW than PMW 72 h post-eccentric exercise. Significant correlations (p < 0.05) were found between age and soreness, and between age and PGE(2). In conclusion, YW do not have attenuated muscle damage compared to PMW who do not make use of hormonal replacement therapy. In addition, YW have a greater anti-inflammatory response after eccentric exercise compared to PMW.

The Effect of Low-intensity Aerobic Training Combined with Blood Flow Restriction on Maximal Strength, Muscle Mass, and Cycling Performance in a Cyclist with Knee Displacement.

Low-intensity aerobic training combined with blood flow restriction (LI + BFR) has resulted in increases in aerobic and neuromuscular capacities in untrained individuals. This strategy may help cyclists incapable of training with high intensity bouts or during a rehabilitation program. However, there is a lack of evidence about the use of LI + BFR in injured trained cyclists. Thus, we investigated the effects of LI + BFR on aerobic capacity, maximal isometric strength, cross-sectional area of vastus lateralis (CSAVL), time to exhaustion test (TTE), and 20 km cycling time-trial performance (TT20 km) in a male cyclist with knee osteoarthritis (OA). After a 4-week control period, a 9-week (2 days/week) intervention period started. Pre- and post-intervention TT20 km, peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), power output of the 1st and 2nd ventilatory thresholds (1st WVT and 2nd WVT), maximum power output (Wmax), TTE, muscle strength and CSAVL of both legs were measured. Training intensity was fixed at 30% of Wmax while the duration was progressively increased from 12 min to 24 min. There was a reduction in time to complete TT20 km (-1%) with increases in TT20 km mean power output (3.9%), VO2peak (11.4%), 2nd WVT (8.3%), Wmax (3.8%), TTE (15.5%), right and left legs maximal strength (1.3% and 8.5%, respectively) and CSAVL (3.3% and 3.7%, respectively). There was no alteration in 1st WVT. Based on the results, we suggest that LI + BFR may be a promising training strategy to improve the performance of knee-injured cyclists with knee OA.

Exercise-Induced Circulating microRNAs: Potential Key Factors in the Control of Breast Cancer.

Losses in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and metabolic function are harmful in the pathophysiology of serious diseases, including breast cancer. Physical exercise training is an effective non-pharmacological strategy to improve health and quality of life in patients with breast cancer, mainly through positive effects on skeletal muscle mass, strength, and metabolic function. Emerging evidence has also highlighted the potential of exercise-induced crosstalk between skeletal muscle and cancer cells as one of the mechanisms controlling breast cancer progression. This intercellular communication seems to be mediated by a group of skeletal muscle molecules released in the bloodstream known as myokines. Among the myokines, exercise-induced circulating microRNAs (c-miRNAs) are deemed to mediate the antitumoral effects produced by exercise training through the control of key cellular processes, such as proliferation, metabolism, and signal transduction. However, there are still many open questions regarding the molecular basis of the exercise-induced effects on c-miRNA on human breast cancer cells. Here, we present evidence regarding the effect of exercise training on c-miRNA expression in breast cancer, along with the current gaps in the literature and future perspectives.

Time Course of Skeletal Muscle miRNA Expression after Resistance, High-Intensity Interval, and Concurrent Exercise.

INTRODUCTION: Exercise-induced microRNA (miRNA) expression has been implicated in the regulation of skeletal muscle plasticity. However, the specificity and acute time course in miRNA expression after divergent exercise modes are unknown. In a randomized crossover design, we compared the acute expression profile of eight skeletal muscle miRNAs previously reported to be involved in skeletal muscle development, growth, and maintenance after a bout of either resistance exercise (RE), high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE), and concurrent resistance and high-intensity interval exercises (CE). METHODS: Nine untrained young men (23.9 ± 2.8 yr, 70.1 ± 14.9 kg, 177.2 ± 3.0 cm, 41.4 ± 5.2 mL·kg-1·min-1) underwent a counterbalanced crossover design in which they performed bouts of RE (2 × 10 repetitions maximum 45° leg press and leg extension exercises), HIEE (12 × 1-min sprints at V˙O2peak with 1-min rest intervals between sprints), and CE (RE followed by HIIE), separated by 1 wk. Vastus lateralis biopsies were harvested immediately before (Pre) and immediately (0 h), 4 h, and 8 h after each exercise bout. RESULTS: There were similar increases (main effect of time; P < 0.05) in miR-1-3p, miR-133a-3p, miR-133b, miR-181a-3p, and miR-486 expression at 8 h from Pre with all exercise modes. Besides a main effect of time, miR-23a-3p and miR-206 presented a main effect of condition with lower expression after HIIE compared with RE and CE. CONCLUSIONS: Select miRNAs (miR-1-3p, miR-133a-3p, miR-133b, miR-23a-3p, miR-181a-3p, miR-206, miR-486) do not exhibit an expression specificity in the acute recovery period after a single bout of RE, HIIE, or CE in skeletal muscle. Our data also indicate that RE has a higher effect on the expression of miR-23a-3p and miR-206 than HIIE. As upregulation of these miRNAs seems to be confined to the 8-h period after exercise, this may subsequently affect the expression patterns of target mRNAs forming the basis of exercise-induced adaptive responses.

Attenuated PGC-1α Isoforms following Endurance Exercise with Blood Flow Restriction.

INTRODUCTION: Exercise performed with blood flow restriction simultaneously enhances the acute responses to both myogenic and mitochondrial pathways with roles in training adaptation. We investigated isoform-specific gene expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1 and selected target genes and proteins regulating skeletal muscle training adaptation. METHODS: Nine healthy, untrained males participated in a randomized, counterbalanced, crossover design in which each subject completed a bout of low-intensity endurance exercise performed with blood flow restriction (15 min cycling at 40% of V˙O2peak, BFR-EE), endurance exercise (30 min cycling at 70% of V˙O2peak, EE), or resistance exercise (4 × 10 repetitions of leg press at 70% of one-repetition maximum) separated by at least 1 wk of recovery. A single resting muscle biopsy (vastus lateralis) was obtained 2 wk before the first exercise trial (rest) and 3 h after each bout. RESULTS: Total PGC-1α mRNA abundance, along with all four isoforms, increased above rest with EE only (P < 0.05) being higher than BFR-EE (P < 0.05). PGC-1α1, 2, and 4 were higher after EE compared with resistance exercise (P < 0.05). EE also increased vascular endothelial growth factor, Hif-1α, and MuRF-1 mRNA abundance above rest (P < 0.05), whereas COXIV mRNA expression increased with EE compared with BFR-EE (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The attenuated expression of all four PGC-1α isoforms when EE is performed with blood flow restriction suggests this type of exercise provides an insufficient stimulus to activate the signaling pathways governing mitochondrial and angiogenesis responses observed with moderate- to high-intensity EE.

Are cluster sets an effective method to induce muscular hypertrophy in response to resistance training?

ABSTRACT There are a plethora of studies that have analyzed the effects of different resistance training methods on muscle hypertrophy. Recent studies have pointed out some potential advantage of training using cluster sets (CS) compared with traditional sets. It is still unclear whether CS are an effective method. The objective of this review was to investigate and discuss the current knowledge about the effect of CS on muscle hypertrophy. Four studies investigating the effect of CS on muscle hypertrophy were found. These studies demonstrated that CS induced similar or lower muscle hypertrophy than traditional sets. Thus, CS may lead to muscle hypertrophy, but did not provide a superior stimulus when compared to traditional sets of equated load.

RESUMO Um conjunto de estudos que tem analisado o efeito de diferentes métodos de treinamento resistido na hipertrofia muscular. Estudos têm pontuado várias potenciais vantagens do treinamento usando séries em conglomerados (SC) quando comparado com séries tradicionais. Ainda não está claro se as SC é um método efetivo. O objetivo desta revisão foi investigar e discutir o conhecimento recente sobre o efeito das SC na hipertrofia muscular. Quatro estudos investigando o efeito das SC na hipertrofia muscular foram encontrados. Esses estudos demonstraram que as SC induziram similar ou menor hipertrofia muscular do que séries tradicionais. Portanto, as SC podem induzir hipertrofia, porém não fornecem um estímulo superior quando comparado às séries tradicionais com carga equiparada.

RESUMEN Muchos estudios han analizado los efectos de diferentes métodos de entrenamiento de la fuerza en la hipertrofia muscular. Algunos estudios han resaltado las ventajas de introducir períodos de recuperación intra-serie (series cluster, SC) al compararlo con las series tradicionales. No está todavía claro si las SC son un método efectivo. El objetivo de esta revisión fue investigar y discutir el conocimiento actual sobre el efecto de las SC en la hipertrofia muscular. Se encontraron cuatro estudios investigando el efecto de las SC en la hipertrofia. Estos estudios demuestran que las SC inducen igual o menor hipertrofia que las series tradicionales. Así, las SC podrían inducir hipertrofia muscular pero no proporcionan un estímulo superior al compararlas con las series tradicionales.

Comparison of maximal muscle strength of elbow flexors and knee extensors between younger and older men with the same level of daily activity.

BACKGROUND: Aging promotes neuromuscular loss, significantly reducing muscle strength. The magnitude of loss of strength seems to be different between the limbs, probably because of differences in activities of daily living (ADL). Therefore, the present study compared the muscle strength of the elbow flexors and knee extensors in younger (n = 7, mean age 23.3 ± 1.2 years) and older (n = 5, mean age 61.8 ± 2.6 years) men matched by ADL level. METHODS: The study participants performed maximal concentric, isometric, and eccentric contractions of the elbow flexors and knee extensors using an isokinetic dynamometer following a crossover study design. Changes in the dependent variables were compared using mixed model analysis (limb versus age). RESULTS: The main results demonstrated that concentric, eccentric, and mean contraction torques for knee extensors were significantly (P < 0.05) higher for younger men than for elderly men. On the other hand, no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) was found in concentric, isometric, eccentric, and mean torques for elbow flexors between younger and older individuals. CONCLUSION: These results show that elbow flexors maintain better strength than knee extensors through aging, even when comparing individuals with similar ADL levels.

Sixteen weeks of resistance training can decrease the risk of metabolic syndrome in healthy postmenopausal women.

BACKGROUND: The postmenopausal phase has been considered an aggravating factor for developing metabolic syndrome. Notwithstanding, no studies have as yet investigated the effects of resistance training on metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women. Thus, the purpose of this study was to verify whether resistance training could reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women. METHODS: Twenty postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to a resistance training protocol (n = 10, 53.40 ± 3.95 years, 64.58 ± 9.22 kg) or a control group (n = 10, 53.0 ± 5.7 years, 64.03 ± 5.03 kg). In the resistance training protocol, ten exercises were performed, with 3 × 8-10 maximal repetitions three times per week, and the load was increased every week. Two-way analysis of variance was used to evaluate specific metabolic syndrome Z-score, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, waist circumference, blood pressure, strength, and body composition. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: The main results demonstrated a significant decrease of metabolic syndrome Z-score when the postmenopausal women performed resistance training (P = 0.0162). Moreover, we observed decreases in fasting blood glucose for the resistance training group (P = 0.001), and also significant improvements in lean body mass (P = 0.042, 2.46%), reduction of body fat percentage (P = 0.001, -6.75%) and noticeable increases in muscle strength after resistance training to leg press (P = 0.004, 41.29%) and bench press (P = 0.0001, 27.23%). CONCLUSION: It was concluded that resistance training performed three times a week may reduce the metabolic syndrome Z-score with concomitant decreases in fasting blood glucose, improvements in body composition, and muscle strength in postmenopausal women.

Influência da força muscular no volume e na intensidade da atividade física diária de idosos / Influence of muscle strength in the volume and intensity of daily physical activity in elderly

Resumo Diminuições no volume da atividade física diária (VAF - número de passos) e na intensidade da atividade física diária (IAF – velocidade média de caminhada) estão relacionadas com a maior incidência de quedas e aumento da incidência de doenças crônico-degenerativas em idosos. Portanto, identificar fatores que possam aumentar o VAF e a IAF torna-se essencial, principalmente para essa população. Desta forma, o objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar a influência da força muscular no VAF e na IAF de idosos saudáveis. Foram recrutados 18 participantes (10 homens e oito mulheres), com idade acima de 60 anos. Os participantes realizaram o teste de uma repetição máxima (1-RM) e utilizaram acelerômetro triaxial durante sete dias consecutivos, para mensurar o VAF e a IAF. Para analisar a influência da força no VAF e IAF realizou-se uma análise de regressão linear simples. Não foram observadas correlações significantes entre a força muscular e o VAF (p = 0,93; r2 = −0,06), assim como, entre a força muscular e a IAF (p = 0,08; r2 = 0,17). Conclui-se que a força muscular não influencia o VAF e a IAF de idosos saudáveis.(AU)

Abstract Reduction in the volume daily physical activity (VAF – number of steps) and in the intensity of daily physical activity (IAF- average walk velocity) are related with higher incidence of falls and increase of incidence of chronic diseases in elderly. However, the identification of factors which may increase the VAF and the IAF became essential, especially in this population. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of muscle strength in VAF and the IAF of older healthy elderly. It were recruited 18 participants, ten men and eight women, aged above 60 years old. The participants performed the one repetition maximal test (1-RM) and afterwards they used the triaxial accelerometer, during seven consecutive days, to measure the VAF and the IAF. To analyze the influence of muscle strength in the VAF and IAF a simple linear regression analysis was performed. It was not observed significant correlations between the muscle strength and the VAF (p = 0.93; r2 = −0.06), or between muscle strength and the IAF (p = 0.08; r2 = 0.17). In conclusion the muscle strength does not influence the VAF and IAF of healthy older adults.(AU)

[Resting metabolic rate and body composition in postmenopausal women]. / Taxa metabólica de repouso e composição corporal em mulheres na pós-menopausa.

OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluated the relationship between resting metabolic rate (RMR) and body composition of postmenopausal women. METHODS: Thirty physically inactive women participated in the study, and their age average was 54,33 +/- 5,20 years old. Oxygen consumption was measured by indirect calorimetry after 12 hours of fasting and the values were calculated according to the equation of Weir. Body composition was obtained by the method of skinfolds and the measurement of waist circumference (WC) was used to assess abdominal fat. The linear correlation of Pearson was used to establish correlations between the variables. RESULTS: We found significant correlations of TMR with the CC (0.42) and the lean mass (LM) (r = 0.48). CONCLUSIONS: The variables of body composition that can be involved in the determination of the RMR are LM and WC.

Dano muscular: resposta inflamatória sistêmica após ações excêntricas máximas / Muscle damage: systemic inflammatory response after maximal eccentric actions / Daño muscular: respuesta inflamatoria sistémica después de acciones excéntricas máximas

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a resposta inflamatória induzida por grande número de ações excêntricas (AE) máximas realizadas pelos flexores do cotovelo. Participaram do estudo nove homens jovens, que realizaram 35 séries de seis AE nos flexores de cotovelo, com intervalo de um minuto, utilizando um dinamômetro isocinético em uma velocidade de 210º.s-1. As variáveis mensuradas foram: a contração isométrica voluntaria máxima (CIVM), a amplitude de movimento (AM), a dor muscular de inicio tardio (DMIT), a interleucina-6 (IL-6) e o fator de necrose tumoral alfa (TNF-α). Alterações significantes foram observadas para os marcadores indiretos de dano muscular (CIVM, AM e DMIT), entretanto não houve modificações para os marcadores inflamatórios (IL-6 e TNF-α). Em conclusão, os resultados demonstraram que mesmo com alterações nos marcadores indiretos de dano muscular após a realização de um grande número de AE não foram observadas alterações na resposta inflamatória sistêmica.

The objective of this study was to analyze the magnitude of the inflammatory response induced by a high number of eccentric actions (AE) of the elbow flexors. Participated on this study nine young men who performed 35 sets of six AE of the elbow flexors, with an one minute interval, using an isokinetic dynamometer at 210º.s-1. Maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), range of motion (ROM), delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured. Significant changes were observed for markers of muscle damage (MVIC, ROM and DOMS), however, there were no changes on inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α. In conclusion, the results show that even with large numbers of AE and changes in indirect markers of muscle damage, no change was observed in the systemic inflammatory response.

El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar la magnitud de la respuesta inflamatoria inducida por un gran número de acciones excéntricas (AE) de los flexores del codo. Han participado del estudio nueve jóvenes que llevaron a cabo 35 series de seis AE de los flexores del codo, con un intervalo de un minuto, utilizando un dinamómetro isocinético a 210º.s-1. Fueran mensurados la máxima contracción voluntaria isométrica (CIVM), la amplitud de movimiento (AM), el dolor muscular de aparición tardía (DMIT), la interleucina 6 (IL-6) y el factor de necrosis tumoral alfa (TNF-α). Se observaron cambios significativos para los marcadores de daño muscular (CIVM, AM y DMIT), sin embargo, no hubo cambios en los marcadores de inflamación IL-6 y TNF-α. En conclusión, los resultados indican que mismo con un gran número de AE y cambios en los marcadores indirectos de daño muscular, no se observaron cambios en la respuesta inflamatoria sistémica.

Efeito do treinamento concorrente sobre a força e hipertrofia muscular de mulheres na pós-menopausa / Effect of concurrent training on muscle hypertrophy and strength of postmenopausal women

A associação do treinamento de força (TF) e aeróbio (TA), conhecido com treinamento concorrente (TC), parece diminuir os ganhos de força e hipertrofia muscular quando comparado ao TF isolado. Dessa forma, esse estudo teve como objetivo comparar os efeitos de16 semanas de TF e TC sobre os indicadores de hipertrofia e a força muscular em mulheres de meia-idade na pós-menopausa. Participaram 24 mulheres, não ativas fisicamente, subdivididas em três grupos: Grupo TC (n=8), Grupo TF (n=8) e Grupo Controle (n=8). Os treinamentos foram compostos de duas etapas (E1 e E2) com duração de oito semanas cada, e frequência de três sessões/semana (TF: 10 exercícios com 3 x 8-10 RM; TC: 6 exercícios com 3 x 8-10 RM, seguido de 30 min de caminhada ou corrida a 55-85% VO2pico). Foram avaliadas a área muscular de coxa (AMC), força máxima e consumo pico de oxigênio (VO2pico). Os resultados demonstraram aumento na força máxima nos exercícios leg press, supino reto e rosca direta para o TF e TC, sem diferença entre eles. Com relação aos indicadores hipertróficos não houve aumento na AMC para o TF e TC. Houve aumento do VO2pico somente para o TC. Dessa forma, podemos concluir que o TC, realizado com as recomendações mínimas de TA preconizadas pelo American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), não promoveu efeito de interferência na força máxima e hipertrofia muscular de mulheres de meia-idade na pós-menopausa.

The combination of strength (TF) and aerobic training (TA), known as concurrent training (TC), seems to diminish the muscle strength and hypertrophy gains when compared with isolated TF. This study aimed to compare the effects of 16 weeks of concurrent training (TC) and resistance training (TF) on hypertrophic indicators and muscle strength of middle-aged postmenopausal women. Participated 24 non-active women randomly assigned in three groups: TC (n=8), TP (n=8) and control group (GC, n=8). Both training protocols were divided in two phases lasting eight weeks with a three weeks sessions frequency (TF: 10 exercises, 3x8-10 RM; TC: 6 exercises, 3x8-10 RM followed by 30 min of walking or running at 55-85% VO2peak). It were assessed thigh muscle area (AMC), muscle strength and maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak). Our data showed that both training protocols (i.e., TF and TC) significantly increased maximal strength in leg press, bench press and arm curl without differences between groups. Regarding the hypertrophic indicators there was no difference in AMC for both training groups. VO2peak significantly increased only for TC. Thus, our data showed that when TC is held closely to the minimum of American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommendation for aerobic training, no interference effect is observed in muscle strength and hypertrophic indicators in middle-aged postmenopausal women.

Efeito do treinamento concorrente sobre a força e área de secção transversa muscular / Effects of concurrent training on strength and muscle cross sectional area

O treinamento de força (TF) induz aumentos na força e hipertrofia muscular. Por outro lado, o treinamento aeróbio (TA) é capaz de elevar a potência aeróbia (VO2pico). Porém a associação entre o TF e TA, conhecido como treinamento concorrente (TC), parece diminuir os ganhos de força e hipertrofia muscular quando comparado ao TF isolado. Dessa forma, esse estudo comparou os efeitos de 16 semanas de TF, TA e TC na área de secção transversa de coxa (ASTC) e força muscular em 49 homens de meia-idade idade não ativos fisicamente. Para tanto os sujeitos foram randomizados em TF (n=12), TA (n=12), TC (n=12) e grupo controle (GC, n=13). Os protocolos de treinamento foram compostos de duas etapas (E1 e E2) com duração de oito semanas cada, e frequência de três sessões/semana (TF: 10 exercícios 3 x 8 10RM; TA: 60 min de caminhada ou corrida a 55-85%VO2pico; TC: 6 exercícios 3 x 8-10RM somados de 30 min de caminhada ou corrida a 55-85%VO2pico; GC não realizou nenhum protocolo de treinamento durante o período do estudo). A ASTC foi mensurada pela equação de Knapik; força máxima por teste de 1-RM; VO2pico por meio de teste ergométrico em esteira. Os principais resultados demonstraram que o TF e TC obtiveram aumentos similares da ASTC (5,7 e 5,6%; respectivamente) e concomitante aumento da força máxima no exercício leg press após 16 semanas de intervenção (48,6 e 54,8%; respectivamente). Os resultados referentes ao VO2pico evidenciaram aumentos similares apenas para os grupos TC (14,8%) e TA (21,7%) após a intervenção. Dessa forma, concluímos que o protocolo de TC utilizado no presente estudo, não promove o efeito de interferência na ASTC e força muscular de membros inferiores de homens de meia-idade.

Strength training (TF) promotes muscle hypertrophy and enhances muscle strength. On the other hand, endurance training (TA) raises the peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak). However, the association between TF and TA, known as concurrent training (TC), might impair gains of muscle hypertrophy and strength compared to isolated TF. Therefore, this study analyzed the effects of 16 weeks of TF, TA and TC in muscle strength and thigh cross sectional area (AST) in 49 non-physically active middle-aged men. Subjects were randomized in TF (n=12), TA (n=12), TC (n=12) and control group (GC, n=13). Trainings were composed of two periods (E1 and E2) of 8 weeks each and frequency of 3 days/week (TF: 10 exercises-3x8-10RM; TA: 60 min of walking or running; TC: 6 exercises-3x8-10RM followed by 30 min of walking or running at 55-85%VO2peak; GC did not performed any training during study period). Thigh AST was analyzed through the equation of Knapik; muscle strength through 1-RM test; VO2peak through a cardiorespiratory treadmill test. Main results showed that TF and TC enhanced similarly muscle strength in leg press (5,7 e 5,6%; respectively) and thigh AST (48,6 e 54,8%; respectively) following 16 weeks of intervention. The results regarding VO2peak demonstrated similar increases for TC (14,8%) and TA (21,7%) after intervention. We concluded that 16 weeks of TC did not produce the interference effect either for thigh AST or lower limbs muscle strength in middle-aged men.

Resposta da taxa metabólica de repouso após 16 semanas de treinamento com pesos em mulheres na pós-menopausa / Response of the resting metabolic rate after 16 weeks of resistance training in postmenopausal women

INTRODUÇÃO: As alterações corporais provenientes da menopausa como a diminuição da massa magra (MM), aumento e redistribuição da gordura corporal e diminuição do gasto energético de repouso, colaboram para o aumento nas dimensões corporais e subsequente aumento da massa corporal total. Nesse sentido, os benefícios reconhecidos do treinamento com pesos (TP) não estão atrelados apenas ao aumento da força e hipertrofia muscular, mas também à composição corporal e, consequentemente, na taxa metabólica de repouso (RMR). OBJETIVO: Avaliar a resposta da RMR após 16 semanas de TP em mulheres na pós-menopausa. MÉTODOS: Participaram 28 voluntárias, subdivididas em dois grupos: treinamento (GT n = 17) e controle (GC n = 11). O programa de TP foi realizado em três sessões semanais, em dias alternados e com duração de aproximadamente 60 min/sessão, por 16 semanas. A intensidade da carga foi determinada por meio de zona alvo de repetições máximas (RM), com reajuste semanal de carga. O consumo de oxigênio (O2) e da produção de gás carbônico (CO2), por meio de calorimetria indireta de circuito aberto, foi utilizado para cálculo da RMR segundo equação de Weir (1949). ANÁLISE ESTATÍSTICA: Foi utilizado pacote estatístico Bioestat na versão 5.0, com nível de significância de p < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Houve aumento significante dos valores de MM e força muscular, somente no GT. Não foram encontradas diferenças significantes para os valores da RMR após a intervenção para ambos os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: O programa de TP de 16 semanas foi eficiente para promover alterações na composição corporal e força muscular de mulheres na pós-menopausa; entretanto, não houve alteração da RMR após a intervenção.

INTRODUCTION: The physical changes from menopause such as decrease in lean mass (LM), growth and redistribution of body fat and decrease in resting energy expenditure, contribute to the increase in body size and subsequent increase in total body mass. Accordingly, the recognized benefits of resistance training (RT) are not only linked to increased strength and muscle hypertrophy, but also to body composition and consequently to the resting metabolic rate (RMR). OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the RMR response after 16 weeks of RT in postmenopausal women. METHODS: 28 female volunteers subdivided into two groups participated in the study: training (TG n = 17) and control (CG n = 11). The RT program was conducted in three weekly sessions, on alternate days and lasted approximately 60 min/session during 16 weeks. Load intensity was determined by means of target area of maximum repetitions, with weekly load readjustment. The oxygen consumption (O2) and carbon dioxide production (CO2), using open circuit indirect calorimetry was used to calculate the RMR according to Weir equation (1949). STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: statistical package Bioestat, version 5.0, with a significance level of p <0.05 was used. RESULTS: There was significant increase of the LM values and muscle strength in TG only. No significant differences were found for the RMR values after intervention for both groups. CONCLUSION: The RT program of 16 weeks was effective in promoting changes in body composition and muscle strength in postmenopausal women; nevertheless, there was not change in RMR after intervention.

Taxa metabólica de repouso e composição corporal em mulheres na pós-menopausa / Resting metabolic rate and body composition in postmenopausal women

OBJETIVO: A presente pesquisa avaliou a relação entre a taxa metabólica de repouso (TMR) e a composição corporal de mulheres na pós-menopausa. MÉTODOS: Participaram 30 mulheres inativas fisicamente, com média de idade 54,33 ± 5,20 anos. O consumo de oxigênio foi avaliado por meio de calorimetria indireta após 12 horas em jejum e os valores obtidos foram calculados segundo a equação de Weir. A composição corporal foi obtida pelo método de dobras cutâneas e a medida da circunferência de cintura (CC) foi utilizada para avaliar a gordura abdominal. Utilizou-se a correlação linear de Pearson para estabelecer as correlações entre as variáveis. RESULTADOS: Foram encontradas correlações significantes da TMR com a CC (r = 0,42) e com a massa magra (MM) (r = 0,48). CONCLUSÕES: As variáveis da composição corporal que podem estar envolvidas na determinação da TMR são a MM e a CC.

OBJECTIVE: The present study evaluated the relationship between resting metabolic rate (RMR) and body composition of postmenopausal women. METHODS: Thirty physically inactive women participated in the study, and their age average was 54,33 ± 5,20 years old. Oxygen consumption was measured by indirect calorimetry after 12 hours of fasting and the values were calculated according to the equation of Weir. Body composition was obtained by the method of skinfolds and the measurement of waist circumference (WC) was used to assess abdominal fat. The linear correlation of Pearson was used to establish correlations between the variables. RESULTS: We found significant correlations of TMR with the CC (0.42) and the lean mass (LM) (r = 0.48). CONCLUSIONS: The variables of body composition that can be involved in the determination of the RMR are LM and WC.