Electromyographic and performance analysis during three sets of resistance exercises among untrained women

Abstract

The number of sets need to be performed in a resistance training session has been debated for decades. As more recent studies showed the superiority of performing multiple sets in resistance training, the aim of this study was to determine and compare the muscle activation and performance during three sets of resistance exercises among untrained women. Thirty-two recreationally active, untrained women were recruited as participants. Muscle activation was obtained from the pectoralis major during bench press and vastus lateralis during squat using electromyography method. Performance was measured by the number of repetitions performed in the three sets during both exercises. Results showed that the number of repetitions decreased significantly as early in the second set and continued to reduce in the third set. No significant changes were found for muscular activation. As the conclusion, among untrained women, it seems that performance in resistance training tend to decrease as early as during the second set. It is recommended for untrained women to perform more than a single set for each exercises in a resistance training to enhance their muscular strength and endurance.