The difference between effects of "power-up type" and "bulk-up type" strength training exercises - With special reference to muscle cross-sectional area, muscular strength, anaerobic power and anaerobic endurance

Abstract

In this study, the difference between the effects of "power-up type" and "bulk-up type" strength training exercise was investigated by analyzing parameters such as structural and functional adaptations in the neuromuscular system. Eleven subjects were divided into power-up and bulk-up groups. The power-up group comprised five male subjects who performed 5 sets at 90% of one repetition maximum (1 RM) with a 3-min rest between sets (repetition method). The bulk-up group comprised six male subjects who performed 9 sets at 80-60-50%, 70-50-40%, and 60-50-40% of 1 RM with rest intervals between sets of either 30 s or 3 min (interval method). Both groups performed isotonic knee extension exercise twice a week for 8 weeks. The power-up group showed a lower rate of improvement than the bulk-up group in terms of cross-sectional area (CSA) of the quadriceps femoris at levels 30% , 50% and 70% from the top of the femur, and also in average isokinetic strength (Isok. ave.; 180 deg/s, 50 consecutive repetitions). However, the power-up group showed a greater rate of improvement in 1 RM, maximal isometric strength (Isom. max), and maximal isokinetic strength (Isok. max ; 60, 180, 300 deg/s). Furthermore, the rate of reduction in strength over 50 consecutive isokinetic repetitions decreased in the bulk-up group. On the other hand, the power-up group showed no significant changes in the above throughout the entire training program. These results indicate that the characteristics of the two types of training exercise are as follows:(1) power-up exercise is effective mainly for improving muscular strength and anaerobic power, and (2) bulk-up exercise is effective mainly for improving hypertrophy and anaerobic endurance. These findings support the idea that "power-up type" and "bulk-up type" strength training exercises should be applied appropriately according to the training aim.