Resistance Training Effects on Muscle Morphological, Mechanical and Contractile Properties

Both experimental groups performed two exercises to target elbow flexor and knee extensor muscles: biceps curl on a Scott bench and parallel barbell squat, respectively. All sessions were performed at the same time (13-15 h), with a minimum 48 h rest between sessions on the same days during the week. For both groups, the intensity of load (1RM%) and number of sets were as follows: in the first three weeks the subjects exercises with ̴ 60% of 1RM in 3 sets, while during the next four weeks the load was set at ̴ 70% of 1RM in 4 sets. All repetitions were performed until muscular failure. The pause between sets was 2 minutes.