Estudio de la influencia del ejercicio con levantamiento de pesos en pacientes con disección axilar / Effects of weightlifting exercise in patients with axillary dissection

Introducción. Los pacientes intervenidos quirúrgicamente con disección axilar supervivientes de cáncer de mama, a partir de las recomendaciones actuales, restringen su actividad física por miedo e incertidumbre a padecer linfedema secundario, lo que puede limitar su recuperación física y psicosocial. En este estudio, observamos los efectos de un programa de entrenamiento controlado, que incluyó ejercicios con levantamiento de pesos. Material y métodos. Ensayo clínico prospectivo abierto y controlado. Se seleccionaron 22 pacientes diagnosticados de cáncer de mama, con disección axilar de, al menos, un nódulo linfático, con o sin diagnóstico de linfedema. El grupo intervención (grupo de actividad física con pesas, GAFP, n=11) mantuvo su estilo de vida habitual, incorporando un protocolo terapéutico de ejercicios bisemanal diseñado por fisioterapeutas, que incluyó levantamiento de pesos de forma controlada y progresiva, realizado siempre bajo su supervisión. El grupo control (GC, n=11) mantuvo su estilo de vida sin cambios durante las 6 semanas de duración del estudio (febrero-marzo de 2013). Se valoraron el volumen del brazo (midiendo la circunferencia de cada brazo), las sensaciones de dolor y pesadez del brazo mediante la Escala Visual Analógica (EVA), el índice de masa corporal (BMI) y la calidad de vida (FACT-B+4), Resultados. Ninguna de las participantes en el grupo de intervención experimentó un aumento de los síntomas. No hubo diferencias significativas entre ambos grupos, aunque se advirtió una tendencia (p = 0,341) hacia el descenso del volumen del brazo afecto en los pacientes del grupo GAFP. Conclusiones. De acuerdo con estudios previos, es segura la realización de un protocolo de ejercicios que incluya levantamiento de pesos, en un entorno controlado y progresivo (AU)

Introduction. In breast cancer survivors who have undergone axillary dissection, current recommendations advise restricting physical activity due to the risk of secondary lymphedema, which may limit these patients’ physical and psychosocial recovery. In this study, we examined the effects of a controlled training program that included weightlifting exercises. Material and methods. An open, prospective, controlled clinical trial was carried out that included a control and an intervention group. We selected 22 patients with a diagnosis of breast cancer and dissection of at least one axillary lymph node, with or without a diagnosis of lymphedema. An intervention group (group of physical activity weights, n=11) maintained their usual lifestyle, incorporating a therapeutic protocol designed by physiotherapists, consisting of twice-weekly exercises that included weightlifting in controlled and progressive sessions, always under supervision. A control group (n=11) maintained their lifestyle unchanged for the 6-week study (February-March 2013). We also assessed arm volume (measurement of the circumference of each arm, sensations of pain and heaviness [Visual Analog Scale], body mass index [BMI], and quality of life [FACT-B +4]). Results. None of the participants in the intervention group had symptom exacerbation or a diagnosis of lymphedema. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups, although a trend (P=.341) toward a decrease in the volume of the affected arm was noted in patients in the intervention group. Conclusions. Consistent with previous studies, this study confirms the safety of an exercise protocol that included weight lifting in a progressive and controlled environment (AU)

Correlação do teste de 1RM com aspectos maturacionais, neuromotores, antropométricos e a composição corporal em crianças e adolescentes / Correlation between the 1RM test and maturational, neuromotor, anthropometric aspects and body composition in children and adolescents

Os testes de uma repetição máxima (1RM) têm sido utilizados na busca de informações sobre os efeitos do treinamento com pesos na força muscular de crianças e adolescentes. Porém, pouco se sabe sobre a associação entre testes de 1RM com variáveis morfológicas, neuromotoras e maturacionais. Portanto, o objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar a relação entre testes de 1RM com a composição corporal, variáveis antropométricas, testes neuromotores e a maturação biológica. Para tanto, foi utilizada metodologia correlacional. Fizeram parte deste estudo 10 meninos com idade média de 10,28 (±2,20) anos. As variáveis analisadas foram: massa corporal, estatura, circunferências, dobras cutâneas e a maturação biológica (pilosidade pubiana, axilar e desenvolvimento genital). Posteriormente, foram submetidos a uma bateria de cinco testes neuromotores e a seis sessões de testes de 1RM para membros superiores (MS) e inferiores (MI). A análise dos dados foi realizada por meio do teste de Shapiro Wilk (p < 0,05), estatística descritiva e o coeficiente de correlação de Spearman (p < 0,01; p < 0,05). Verificou-se forte correlação entre a idade e a carga de 1RM de MS e moderada com MI. A estatura teve moderada correlação com 1RM de MS e forte correlação com 1RM de MI; a massa corporal magra absoluta apresentou moderada e forte correlação com MS e MI, respectivamente. O teste de 1RM de MS apresentou moderada correlação com a pilosidade pubiana e forte com a axilar. Esses resultados indicaram uma influência multifatorial nas cargas em testes de 1RM, demonstrando a importância dos aspectos morfológicos, maturacionais e/ou idade cronológica na análise dos resultados. Considerando a fraca relação dos testes neuromotores com os testes de 1RM, apesar de serem muito utilizados para análise da força muscular em crianças e adolescentes, seus resultados devem ser empregados com cautela quando o propósito é obter informações sobre a magnitude da eficiência no treinamento com pesos.

1 Maximum Repetition (1MR) tests have been used in research on strength training effects in children and adolescents. However, little is known about the association between 1MR tests and morphologic, neuromotor and biological maturation variables. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to analyze the relationship between 1MR tests and body composition, anthropometric variables, neuromotor tests and biological maturation. For such purpose, correlational methodology was used. The study involved 10 boys with average age of 10.28 (±2.20) years old. The variables analyzed were: body mass, stature, circumferences, skinfolds and biological maturation (pubic and axillary hair and genital development). Hence the sample was submitted to a battery of five neuromotor tests and six 1MR tests sessions for upper (UL) and lower (LL) limbs. Data analysis was developed using the Shapiro-Wilk's test (p<0.05), descriptive statistics and the Spearman Correlation Coefficient (p < 0.01; P< 0.05). A strong correlation between age and the 1MR load for UL and moderate for LL was found. Stature presented a moderate correlation with 1MR of UL and strong correlation for 1MR of LL; absolute lean body mass presented moderate and strong correlation for UL and LL, respectively. The 1MR test for UL presented moderate correlation for pubic hair and strong correlation for axillary hair. These results indicated a multifactorial influence in the 1MR test loads demonstrating the importance in the use of morphological aspects, biological maturation and/or chronological age in the results analysis. Considering the weak relationship between the neuromotor and the 1MR tests, although they have been well used in research related to strength training on children and adolescents, their results should be carefully used when the purpose is to get information on the magnitude effects of strength training in that age range.

Bench press training program with attached chains for female volleyball and basketball athletes.

Attaching chains to barbells to increase strength and power has become popular for athletes; however, little scientific evidence supports this practice. The present purpose was to compare chain training to traditional training for the bench press. Women collegiate athletes in volleyball and basketball (N = 19) participated in a 16-session bench press program. They were matched into either a Traditional or a Chain training group by 1-repetition maximum (1RM). The Traditional group performed the bench press with conventional equipment, while the Chain group trained with attached chains (5% of weight). Analysis showed a significant increase in 1RM for both groups over 16 sessions, Traditional +11.8% and Chain +17.4%. The difference between the groups was not statistically significant, but suggests the women who trained with attached chains improved their bench press more than the Traditional group.

Flexible nonlinear periodization in a beginner college weight training class.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of a flexible nonlinear (FNL) periodized weight training program compared to a nonlinear (NL) periodized weight training program on strength and power. Sixteen beginner weight training students were randomly assigned to an FNL group (n = 8) or an NL group (n = 8). The exercise program included a combination of machines and free weights completed in 30 minutes, twice per week, for 12 consecutive weeks. Both groups were assigned the same total training volume of 3,680 repetitions and the same total training repetition maximum assignments of 10, 15, and 20. The FNL group, however, was allowed to choose which day they completed the 10, 15, or 20 repetition workout. This was the only difference between the groups. Pre- and post-test measures included chest press, leg press, and standing long jump. The FNL group significantly improved by an average increase of 62 kg (p < 0.05), whereas the NL group only increased by an average of 16 kg in the leg press. The FNL group did not significantly differ in chest press or standing long jump performance when compared to the NL group. The conclusion from this study is that an FNL periodization program may be a highly effective method of training for improving leg strength. Coaches can immediately implement an FNL program by evaluating the readiness of an athlete immediately before his or her training session, then adjusting the assigned exercise intensity accordingly.

Entrenamiento de sobrecarga en niños / Resistance training in children

La presente revisión tiene como objetivo actualizar y establecer parámetros válidos para el entrenamiento con sobrecarga durante la prepubertad. Se revisaron los antecedentes bibliográficos como así también la opinión de instituciones líderes en salud y prevención. También se revisaron los tipos de ejercicio utilizados, la intensidad y las recomendaciones básicas para profesionales de las ciencias de la salud (AU)

The objective of the present review is to establish valid rules for resistance training during puberty. It reviews the past literature and the opinion of important leaders in health and fitness. In addition, it reviews the basic recommendations for health professionals of the type and intensity of exercises that should be used (AU)

Structural model for osteoporosis preventing behavior in postmenopausal women.

BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis prevention behaviors (OPBs) can prevent and delay bone deterioration; dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan can identify osteoporosis and provide personal osteoporosis risk information that may promote prevention behaviors. OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to estimate relationships between receiving personal knowledge of bone mineral density (gained through DXA scan), general knowledge of osteoporosis, health beliefs, and the two OPBs of calcium intake and weight-bearing exercise in healthy postmenopausal women 50 to 65 years. METHODS: In this longitudinal, randomized clinical trial (including covariates), receipt of personal DXA information was manipulated by random assignment to the experimental or control group. The remaining antecedent and outcome variable measures were collected by questionnaire at three time points (initial [T1; pre-DXA], 6 months [T2], 12 months [T3]) and by bone density assessment from 203 women over an 18-month period in 2001-2003. RESULTS: The experimental manipulation (DXA results) had a direct positive effect (beta = .23, p < .05) on calcium intake at T2, and indirectly at T3 through T2. Women in the experimental group who were informed they had osteopenia or osteoporosis had a greater T1-T2 change in daily calcium intake than those with normal bone density (beta = .23, p < .05). However, providing DXA results did not relate to change in exercise. Health beliefs and general osteoporosis knowledge predicted initial calcium and exercise levels; there was tentative evidence that susceptibility beliefs partially mediate between DXA results and change in calcium intake. DISCUSSION: Personal knowledge of DXA results was related significantly to increases in calcium intake in postmenopausal women, but not to exercise. Directions for further study are discussed.

Percutaneous electrical stimulation in strength training: an update.

Numerous studies have used percutaneous electrical stimulation (PES) in the context of training programs to develop strength and physical performance in healthy populations (sedentary or trained). Significant increases in muscle and fiber cross-sectional area, isokinetic peak torque, maximal isometric and dynamic strength, and motor performance skills have been found after PES training. These strength gains are explained on the basis of the characteristics of PES motor units (MUs) recruitment: (a) a continuous and exhausting contractile activity in the same pool of MUs during the entire exercise period, (b) a supramaximal temporal recruitment imposed by the high frequency chosen (up to 40 Hz), and (c) a synchronous recruitment of neighboring fibers. The PES training method is complementary to voluntary training, mainly because the application of PES causes an unconventional spatial recruitment of MUs that, depending on the muscular topography, may entail the preferential recruitment of the fast-twitch MUs. In addition, the method does not specifically develop elasticity in skeletal muscle, and it must be accompanied by a technical workout.

Exertional rhabdomyolysis in unsupervised exercises in a correctional setting: a case study.

Unsupervised overexercise in the prison population can lead to exertional rhabdomyolysis, a condition that can lead to kidney damage and/or failure. Knowledge deficit of the risk from this activity will be addressed. Signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis and its sequelae will be presented along with a case study. Inter-departmental responsibilities in the correctional setting will be considered. The importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of this condition by nurses in various clinical settings will also be explored.

Monitoring strength training: neuromuscular and hormonal profile.

PURPOSE: This study investigated changes induced by a single heavy resistance training session on neuromuscular and endocrine systems in trained athletes, using the same exercises for training and testing. METHODS: Five different groups volunteered: track and field male sprinters (MS, N = 6), track and field female sprinters (FS, N = 6), body builders (BB, N = 6), and weight lifters performing low-repetition exercise (WLL, N = 4) and high-repetition exercise (WLH, N = 4). In training, the work performed during half and full squat exercise was monitored for mechanical power output as well as EMG analysis on leg extensor muscles of the subjects belonging to the MS, FS, and BB groups. Just before and immediately after the training session, venous blood samples were obtained for RIA determination of testosterone (T), cortisol (C), lutropin (LH), human prolactin (PRL), and follitropin (FSH) in FS and MS. In the other three groups (BB, WLH, and WLL), the hormonal profile was limited to T and human growth hormone (hGH) only. RESULTS: After training the power developed in full squat demonstrated a statistically significant decrease (P < 0.01) in MS and no changes in FS. The EMG activity remained constant during the training session. Consequently, the EMG/Power ratio increased in both MS and FS, although only in MS a statistical significance was noted (P < 0.05). In MS immediately after the session the levels of C, T, and LH were significantly lower (P < 0.05). No changes were found in FS. In both groups and in BB significant negative correlation was found between changes in T level and EMG/Power ratio in half squat performance. CONCLUSIONS: It is likely that adequate T level may compensate the effect of fatigue in FT fibers by ensuring a better neuromuscular efficiency.

Single versus multiple sets in long-term recreational weightlifters.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of increasing training volume from one set to three sets on muscular strength, muscular endurance, and body composition in adult recreational weight lifters. METHODS: Forty-two adults (age 39.7 +/- 6.2 yr; 6.2 +/- 4.6 yr weight training experience) who had been performing one set using a nine-exercise resistance training circuit (RTC) for a minimum of 1 yr participated in this study. Subjects continued to perform one set (EX-1; N = 21) or performed three sets (EX-3; N = 21) of 8-12 repetitions to muscular failure 3 d x wk(-1) for 13 wk using RTC. One repetition maximums (1-RM) were measured for leg extension (LE), leg curl (LC), chest press (CP), overhead press (OP), and biceps curl (BC). Muscular endurance was evaluated for the CP and LE as the number of repetitions to failure using 75% of pretraining 1-RM. Body composition was estimated using the sum of seven skinfold measures. RESULTS: Both groups significantly improved muscular endurance and 1 RM strength (EX-1 by: 13.6% LE; 9.2% LC; 11.9% CP; 8.7% OP; 8.3% BC; and EX-3 by: 12.8% LE; 12.0% LC; 13.5% CP; 12.4% OP; 10.3% BC) (P < 0.05). Both groups significantly improved lean body mass (P < 0.05). No significant differences between groups were found for any of the test variables (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Both groups significantly improved muscular fitness and body composition as a result of the 13 wk of training. The results show that one-set programs are still effective even after a year of training and that increasing training volume over 13 wk does not lead to significantly greater improvements in fitness for adult recreational weight lifters.

Predictive power of individual genetic and environmental factor scores.

This study explores the use of an individual's genetic (IGFS) and environmental factor score (IEFS), constructed using genetic model fitting of a multivariate strength phenotype. Maximal isometric and dynamic strength measures, one maximal repetition load (1RM) and muscle cross-sectional area (MCSA) were measured in 25 monozygotic and 16 dizygotic twin pairs. The use of IGFS and IEFS in predicting the sensitivity to environmental stress was evaluated by the association of the scores with strength training gains after a 10-week high resistance strength training programme. Results show a high contribution of genetic factors to the covariation between maximal strength and muscle cross-sectional area (84-97%) at pre-training evaluation. Individual factor scores explained the largest part of the variation in IRM and other strength measures at pre-training and post-training evaluation respectively. Genes that are switched on due to training stress (gene-environment interaction) could explain the decrease in explained variation over time. A negative correlation was found between IGFS and strength training gains (-0.24 to -0.51, P < 0.05); individuals with a high IGFS tend to gain less strength than individuals with low IGFS. Individual environmental factor scores have lower differential power. The predictive value of the IGFS has potential utility in identifying an individual's susceptibility to environmental stress in a variety of multifactorial characteristics, eg diseases and impairments, and for selection of sib pairs for QTL analyses.

Progressive resistance training in neuromuscular patients. Effects on force and surface EMG.

In a randomized clinical trial the efficacy of strength training was studied in patients with myotonic dystrophy (n = 33) and in patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (n = 29). Measurements were performed at the start and after 8, 16 and 24 weeks of progressive resistance training. Surface electromyography (SEMG) of proximal leg muscles was recorded during isometric knee extension at maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and at 20, 40, 60 and 80% of MVC. Changes in MVC, maximum electrical activity and torque-EMG ratios (TER) were calculated. Fatigue was studied by determining the changes in endurance and in the decline of the median frequency (Fmed) of the SEMG during a sustained contraction at 80% MVC. These parameters showed no significant changes after the training in either of the diagnostic groups. Only the Charcot-Marie-Tooth training group showed a gradual significant increase in mean MVC over the whole training period (21%). After 24 weeks, the increase in mean RMS was similar (25%), but this was mainly due to a sharp rise during the first 8 weeks of training (20%). The findings indicate that the initial strength increase was due to a neural factor, while the subsequent increase was mainly due to muscle hypertrophy.

Circuit weight training and its effects on excess postexercise oxygen consumption.

OBJECTIVE: There is a paucity of research concerning energy expenditure during and after circuit weight training (CWT). There is evidence that duration of rest between sets affects metabolic responses to resistive exercise. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of rest-interval duration upon the magnitude of 1 h of excess postexercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). METHODS: Seven healthy men completed two randomized circuit weight training sessions using 20-s and 60-s rest intervals (20 RI, 60 RI). Sessions included two circuits of eight upper and lower body resistive exercises in which 20 repetitions were performed at 75% of a previously determined 20 repetition maximum. RESULTS: The 1 h EPOC of 10.3 +/- 0.57 L for the 20 RI session was significantly higher than 7.40 +/- 0.39 L for the 60 RI session. The net caloric expenditure during 1 h of recovery from the 20 RI session was significantly higher than that of the 60 RI session (51.51 +/- 2.84 vs 37.00 +/- 1.97 kcal); however, total gross energy expenditure (exercise + 1 h recovery) was significantly greater for the 60 RI protocol (277.23 kcal) than the 20 RI protocol (242.21 kcal). CONCLUSION: Data demonstrate that shortening the rest interval duration will increase the magnitude of 1 h EPOC from CWT; however, the exercise + recovery caloric costs from CWT are slightly greater for a longer rest interval duration protocol. These data suggest that total caloric cost be taken into account for CWT.

Effects of strength training on intra-abdominal adipose tissue in obese prepubertal girls.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of strength training on fat distribution and its relationship to glucose tolerance in obese prepubertal girls. METHODS: A strength training intervention study was designed in which the children exercised three times per week for 5 months. Twelve healthy, obese prepubertal girls (ages 7-10 yr, > 95th percentile weight for height) were enrolled in the study. Body composition was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry and computed tomography, and glucose tolerance was measured by a 3-h oral glucose tolerance test at baseline and after training. RESULTS: Significant increases in height, weight, fat-free mass, fat mass, and subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue occurred after training (P < 0.05), whereas intra-abdominal adipose tissue (IAAT) remained stable (N = 11). Insulin area was highly correlated with IAAT before (r = 0.91) and after (r = 0.90) training (both P < 0.01, N = 9). CONCLUSION: In growing obese prepubertal girls undergoing a strength training program, IAAT remains unchanged, whereas subcutaneous abdominal fat and total body fat increased; insulin area is related to IAAT in these children.

Effect of a precompetition bodybuilding diet and training regimen on body composition and blood chemistry.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this investigation was to document the effect of a 10-wk precompetition bodybuilding diet and training, on blood chemistry and body composition. PARTICIPANT: One adult male, steroid and drug free, preparing for a first competition. MEASURES: Average daily dietary intake consisted of 2263 calories (71% protein, 16% carbohydrate, 13% fats), with a protein intake of 5.0 gm.kg-1 body mass (BM). Initial body weight of 76.3 kgf (16% body fat) decreased to 63.4 kgf (4.4% body fat). Blood samples for electrolytes, TP, Alb, bilirubin, LDL-C, TG, UA, and amylase were normal. HDL-C levels increased from 65 to 89 mg.dL-1. RESULTS: Decreased glucose levels (< 50 mg.dL-1), indicated hypoglycemia. Increased Mg, LD, and CK levels indicated intense training. Increased inorganic phosphorus from 3.7 to 8.2 mg.dL-1 suggested lactic acidosis. Increased BUN levels from 16 to 53 mg.dL-1 and creatinine from 1.1 to 1.8 mg.dL-1 may be attributed to a high protein diet. However, heart muscle enzyme (CK-MB) was not elevated. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial changes in body composition and blood chemistry suggest adequate nutrition be ensured, and caution taken to avoid excessive physiologic stresses on the body during precompetition diet and training.

Upper extremity weight-training modifications for the injured athlete. A clinical perspective.

The ability of the health care professional to make correct decisions about the progression of weight-training is critical to the rehabilitation process. The purpose of this article is to describe our approach to modification of weight-lifting techniques using the injured shoulder as a model. Additionally, the impact of various upper extremity weight-training techniques on healthy athletes is discussed. The effects of grip, hand spacing, bar trajectory, and start and finishing positions on microtraumatic injury and return to weight-training activities after injury are considered. Several weight-training functional progressions for common multijoint exercises (such as bench press, shoulder press, power clean) are presented. Adaptations for periodization are also presented for implementation in the rehabilitation sequence. The weight-training modifications described in this paper will assist the health professional to safely return athletes to the weight room after shoulder injury.

Changes in upper body power following heavy-resistance strength training in college men.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of heavy-resistance strength training on measures of bench press power (BPP) using absolute loads and seated shot put (SSP) performance. Twenty-four college men were measured for 1-RM bench press, BPP, and SSP before and after weight training twice weekly for 12 weeks. BPP was measured with free weights using a digital timing system and randomly assigned loads equivalent to 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70% and 80% of the 1-RM. Post-training tests used the same absolute loads as during the pre-training test to assess BPP. Following training BPP increased significantly at each load, shifting the power curve upward by an average of 13.6%. The 1-RM bench press increased significantly by 9.1%, but the SSP increased nonsignificantly by only 1.8%. Peak power was produced at approximately 40-50% of the 1-RM before and after training. Changes in SSP distance were nonsignificantly correlated (r=0.27-0.20) with the increases in BPP. Resistance training shifts the power curve in a positive direction when the measurements are determined with absolute loads, but the increased power may not be transferred to an absolute performance task like the SSP.

Effects of rest interval on isokinetic strength and functional performance after short-term high intensity training.

OBJECTIVES: The ability to maximally generate active muscle tension during resistance training has been established to be a primary determinant for strength development. The influence of intrasession rest intervals may have a profound effect on strength gains subsequent to short-term high intensity training. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of rest interval on strength and functional performance after four weeks of isokinetic training. METHODS: Fifteen healthy college aged individuals were randomly assigned to either a short rest interval group (group 1, n = 8) or a long rest interval group (group 2, n = 7). Subjects were evaluated for quadriceps and hamstring isokinetic strength at 60 (five repetitions) and 180 (30 repetitions) degrees/second and functional performance with the single leg hop for distance test. One leg of each subject was randomly assigned to a four week, three days/week isokinetic strength training programme for concentric knee extension and flexion performed at 90 degrees/second. Subjects in group 1 received a 40 second rest interval in between exercise sets, whereas subjects in group 2 received a 160 second rest period. RESULTS: A two factor analysis of variance for the pre-test--post-test gain scores (%) showed significantly greater improvements for isokinetic hamstring total work and average power at 180 degrees/second for the trained limb of subjects in group 2 than their contralateral non-trained limb and the subjects in group 1. Significantly greater improvements for the single leg hop for distance were also found for the trained limbs of subjects in both groups as compared with the non-trained limbs. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that a relatively longer intrasession rest period resulted in a greater improvement in hamstring muscle strength during short term high intensity training.