Adaptations in skeletal muscle following strength training

Authors:
  • DCD. L. Costill
    D. L. Costill
  • ECE. F. Coyle
    E. F. Coyle
  • WFW. F. Fink
    W. F. Fink
  • GLG. R. Lesmes
    G. R. Lesmes
  • FWF. A. Witzmann
    F. A. Witzmann

Abstract
Five men were studied before and after 7 wk of isokinetic strength training to determine its effects on muscle enzyme activities and fiber composition. One of the subject's legs was trained using 10 repeated 6-s maximal work bouts, while the other leg performed repeated 30-s maximal knee extension exercise. The total work accomplished by each leg was constant. Training 4 times/wk achieved similar gains in peak torque for both legs at the training velocity (3.14 rad/s) and at slower speeds. Fatigability of the knee extensor muscles, as measured by a 60-s exercise test, was similar in both legs after training. Biopsy specimens showed significant changes in the % of the muscle area composed of type I and IIa fibers as a result of both strength training programs. In terms of muscle enzymes, only the 30 s exercise program resulted in elevated glycolytic, ATP-CP and mitochondrial activities. Despite these changes, none of the parameters measured were found to be related to the gains in either muscle strength or fatigability during maximal isokinetic contractions.