The eTRIMP method for bodybuilding training load assessment: A review with a case study

Objective: The objective of this study is to know if the method of calculating full training load session eTRIMP using pulse monitors would be able to demonstrate a monotony like the total internal load model through the session-RPE using workload method in a resistance athlete. Methods: This is a one-week observational study that evaluated time, heart rate, and session RPE in a 32-year-old adult during prescribed resistance training to compare Internal Training Load (ITL) using the eTRIMP method with traditional assessment methods that use session RPE multiplied by training session duration, known as session workload calculation. Results: The total load for the week varied between models due to the method of obtaining the result being different, 417 au for the weekly summation based on eTRIMP versus 3321 au using the workload method. However, the monotony of the weekly training prescription was similar, observationally evaluated, between the groups (2.4 for the workload method versus 2.9 for the eTRIMP method). Conclusion: The internal load evaluated by the eTRIMP model seems to show a monotony value like the value calculated by the weekly load using session-RPE and workload. Therefore, evaluating resistance training using the eTRIMP by pulse monitoring model seems to be a useful tool in analyzing training week monotony to maintain high loads favoring the hypertrophy and fat-burning process.