Muscular adaptations in low- versus high-load resistance training: A meta-analysis

Methodology

Meta-analysis

Population

Healthy adults; resistance trained and untrained

Intervention

Low-load RT vs high-load RT

Findings

High-load training produced greater strength gains than low-load training. When sets were taken to failure, both conditions produced similar hypertrophy; when not to failure, high-load training was superior for hypertrophy.

Outcome measures

Muscle strength (1RM), muscle hypertrophy (muscle thickness, lean body mass)

Limitations

Limited number of studies; heterogeneity in protocols; failure vs non-failure distinction important.

Original source

DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2014.989922 · PMID: 25530577