Inter-Set Stretching Reduces Acute Neuromuscular and Metabolic Responses in Resistance-Trained Men

Objective:

The present study investigated the acute neuromuscular and metabolic responses to inter-set stretching (ISS) system.

Methods:

Seventeen resistance-trained men (age: 30.0 ± 5.6 years; weight: 81.8 ± 13.4 kg; height: 173 ± 6.2 cm; RT experience: 4.6 ± 1.7 years) were submitted to both following training protocols: ISS and traditional training (TT). In both conditions, 7 sets of the seated cable fly exercise were performed with a load of 10RM. During ISS, participants were submitted to an inter-set passive static stretching of agonists muscles for 45 seconds, while a passive rest (no stretching) was adopted for the same duration in TT protocol. Maximal strength (1RM in the bench press exercise) and muscle swelling (ultrasound) of the pectoralis major muscle (PMMS) immediately post protocols, blood lactate concentration, total load lifted (TLL) and internal training load (ITL) were assessed in both protocols.

Results: No difference was observed for 1RM between conditions (p > 0.05). Significant higher values of PMMS (p < 0.05) and blood lactate (p < 0.05) were observed for TT compared to ISS. Additionally, TT induced higher TLL (p < 0.05) and ITL values (p < 0.05) compared to ISS. Conclusions: In conclusion, ISS system induces lower acute neuromuscular and metabolic responses compared to TT