Manual resistance training and resistance training elicit neuromuscular strength adaptations but not body composition changes in an 8- week exercise intervention.

Abstract

Manual Resistance Training (MRT) is a mode of Resistance Training (RT) primarily used as a training method for improving muscular strength and body composition. MRT is a form of training that requires minimal equipment due to the use of a partner who provides external resistance. The purposes of this study were 1) to investigate the effects of an 8-week MRT intervention on body composition and muscular strength, and 2) to compare the changes observed in MRT to a traditional Weight Resistance Training (WRT) and control groups. Thirty young adults (n = 30) were randomly assigned to either a MRT (n = 10), WRT (n = 10) or control (n = 10) group. The MRT and WRT groups engaged in twice-a-week training for 1 hour with 2 circuits composed of 3 exercises per circuit while the control group was instructed not to engage in any exercise for 8 weeks. Body composition was measured via Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry and Muscular Strength was measured via Isokinetic Knee Extension/Flexion, Isometric Bench Press, Isometric Mid-thigh Pull, One-Repetition Maximum (1RM) Bench Press (1RMBP), and 1RM Leg Press (1RMLP) before and after the intervention. The MRT and WRT groups showed no change in body composition from pre to post-testing. However, an increase in Strength was seen in MRT through 1RMLP (p < 0.01) and in WRT through 1RMBP (p < 0.01) and 1RMLP (p < 0.01) from pre to post-testing. No changes in the control group were observed for any of the variables of interest (p > 0.05). An 8-week MRT or WRT intervention increases muscle strength without changes in body composition.