Performance
C · Interpret with cautionCombining strength training with cardio in trained men
Subject: The Effect of Time-Equated Concurrent Training Programs in Resistance-Trained Men
What this means
Strength and muscle growth (hypertrophy) rose similarly in all four groups, including with about one hour of cycling or circuit training per week. Only the cycling groups improved fitness.
Dolan C, Quiles JM, Goldsmith JA, Mendez KM, Klemp A, Robinson ZP, Pelland JC, Coccia C, Zourdos MC · 2024 · Journal of Human Kinetics
What does this rating mean?
Limited, mixed or hard-to-translate evidence. Useful as direction, not as a rule.
Findings
With time-equated concurrent training, all modalities (cycling HIIT, moderate continuous cycling, barbell circuit) produced comparable squat and bench-press strength gains to resistance training alone. Quadriceps hypertrophy occurred in all groups; only the cycling groups meaningfully improved VO2peak.
Who this applies to
Men with resistance training experience, on average 24 years old.
What to keep in mind
The groups were very small. Cardio lasted about one hour per week, on days without strength training. With more or differently scheduled training, results may differ.
Practical conclusion for REZA
Small-scale evidence that trained male clients can combine cardio and strength without sacrificing strength or muscle gains — flagged with a caveat given the very small sample.
View method and source
Methodology
Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
Population
23 resistance-trained men (24 ± 3 y) randomised to concurrent RT + HIIT cycling, RT + moderate continuous cycling, RT + barbell circuit or RT only
Intervention
Time-equated concurrent training modalities vs resistance training only
Outcome measures
Back squat and bench press strength, quadriceps and pectoralis muscle thickness, VO2peak, Wmax
Limitations
Very small groups (n=5-6), men only, 1 h/week aerobic dose only, short duration, no non-training control.
Original source
DOI: 10.5114/jhk/185637 · PMID: 38689592
View on PubMed →Effects of Variations in Resistance Training Frequency on Strength Development in Well-Trained Populations and Implications for In-Season Athlete Training: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Next study →Dose-Response Relationship of Physical Activity with All-Cause Mortality among Older Adults: An Umbrella Review
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.