Resistance training rest interval and muscle anabolism
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Effect of manipulating resistance training rest-interval on post-exercise myofibrillar protein synthesis
IRAS ID
138725
Contact name
Leigh Breen
Contact email
Research summary
Manipulation of the variables involved in resistance training prescription to maximize muscle hypertrophic response has been the subject of intense study. Guidelines for the appropriate between-set rest-interval to maximize muscle hypertrophy are based on the premise that endogenous hormone concentrations ’drive’ the muscle anabolic response, a notion that was recently disproved. Indeed, studies comparing the effect of short versus long rest intervals between sets of resistance exercise demonstrate equivocal effects on muscle hypertrophy. To date, no study has directly addressed the muscle-specific anabolic response to divergent rest intervals between sets of resistance exercise. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate whether between-set rest-interval is critical in mediating exercise-induced muscle anabolism, such that we might improve resistance training prescription for athletic populations.
To achieve our aim, healthy young resistance trained males will complete a bout of resistance exercise with a short, intermediate or long rest period between each exercise set. We will combine stable isotope and muscle biopsy techniques to determine the rate at which new muscle proteins are ’made’ in response to the different exercise-rest protocols. In addition we will examine the signals within the muscle that control cell growth (hypertrophy) to gain a mechanistic insight.
REC name
West Midlands - Black Country Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/WM/0455
Date of REC Opinion
9 Jan 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion