Muscular and Metabolic Responses to Resistance-Training with Eccentric Overload

Objective: The main aim of the study was to observe the responses to a resistance-training program with an eccentric overload (EO) on muscular and metabolic parameters determinants for endurance
training performance.

Methods: Eight physically active subjects (3 women - age: 23.8 ±2.6 years; body mass: 70.9 ± 12.7 kg; height: 1.6 ± 0.08 m; % body fat: 29.6 ± 4.3; and 5 men - age: 23.8 ± 2.6 years; body mass: 75.1
± 11.2 kg; height: 1.8 ± 0.1 m; % body fat: 20.0 ± 4.9) performed thirteen EO sessions twice a week and 48 hours apart. Maximal strength (MS), strength endurance (SE), and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2) tests were performed prior the beginning of the program, 96 hours Post the last training session (P13), seven and fourteen days afterwards as well (7D, and 14D).

Results: The main findings of this study were MS presented significant (P<0.05) increases at all Post-moments with no significant decrements until 14D. VO2 at respiratory compensation point presented a significant (P<0.05) decrease. Significant (P<0.05) increases in body mass and thigh circumferences were observed from P7 to 14P, with no significant (P<0.05) changes for % of body fat and arms circumferences.

Conclusion: We conclude that the EO program induce a MS increase and maintained until 14 days after training cessation, but the decrease in the VO2 at respiratory compensation point do not support its application to enhance endurance-training performance.