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Training & movement

B · Reasonable confidence

Dose-response of proximity to failure on strength and muscle growth

Subject: Dose-response between estimated proximity to failure, strength gain and hypertrophy

What this means

Strength gains were similar across a wide range of RIR. Muscle hypertrophy increased as sets were terminated closer to failure. Best-fit models showed diminishing returns. Analysis of multiple meta-regressions, adjusted for load, volume-equating, intervention duration, and training status.

Robinson ZP, Pelland JC, Remmert JF, Refalo MC, Jukic I, Steele J, Zourdos MC · 2024 · Sports Medicine 54(9):2209-2231

What does this rating mean?

A solid systematic review with caveats, or consistent indications with a limited scope.

Findings

Strength and muscle growth don't respond the same way to how close to failure a set is taken.

Who this applies to

Adults undergoing resistance training, mixed training status.

Size of the research

Multiple studies in meta-regression analysis.

What to keep in mind

RIR values estimated from study descriptions; uncertainty in estimation; no risk-of-bias assessment.

Practical conclusion for REZA

Strength goals and hypertrophy goals get a different intensity instruction within the set.

View method and source

Methodology

Series of meta-regressions

Original source

DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02069-2 · PMID: 38970765

View on PubMed →

This information is general education about scientific research. It is not personal medical advice and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a doctor or other healthcare professional. If you have symptoms, a medical condition or take medication, consult your GP or treating professional before changing your training or nutrition.