Comparison of the effects of three different resistance training methods on muscle fatigue in healthy untrained men.

Introduction: Traditional set (TS), paired-set (PS), and super-set (SS) are used as resistance training methods. However, the effects of these methods on muscle fatigue (muscle strength and training volume) are not clear. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of TS, PS, and SS on the muscle fatigue of the hamstrings and quadriceps. Methods: Thirteen healthy, untrained men performed three sets of leg curl and leg extension exercises. TS included three successive sets of the leg curl and leg extension exercises with a 60 s rest interval between sets and exercises. In the PS, leg curl exercises were performed alternatingly with the leg extension exercises with a 60 s rest interval between sets and exercises. In the SS, leg curl and leg extension exercises were performed alternatively with each set. During SS, a 60 s rest interval was set between sets but not between exercises. Muscle strength before and immediately after interventions, and training volume during the training, were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer machine. Time efficiency was calculated by dividing the total training volume by the time required for each intervention. Results and discussion: The muscle strength of the hamstrings decreased in PS (