The extensive research study by Benavente Bardera delves deeply into resistance training under different oxygen levels, commonly referred to as hypoxia and normoxia, and seeks to fill the gaps in existing knowledge on this subject. With a multifaceted approach involving seven separate experiments, the research aims complexities surrounding the effects of such training on muscle hypertrophy and strength, considering both acute and chronic scenarios.
Current Status of Knowledge on Resistance Training in Hypoxia
The first segment of the research employs a systematic review and meta-analysis to gauge the current level of understanding of resistance training in hypoxia (RTH) as it pertains to muscle hypertrophy. Contrary to what one might anticipate given the plethora of training methodologies, the findings reveal a similarity between muscle cross-sectional area and one-repetition maximum (1RM) improvements in RTH and its normoxia counterpart (RTN).
Acute Effects of Training in Different Types of Hypoxia
Studies two and three specifically focus on the acute effects of a hypertrophic resistance training session conducted at moderate altitude. Utilizing a group of 13 resistance-trained males, the research scrutinizes various serum biomarkers including lactate, inorganic phosphate, and various hormones. Interestingly, the results do not show any significant altitude effect on maximal blood lactate and anabolic hormones, though they do indicate an increase in buffering capacity at higher altitudes.
Inter-Set Rest Configuration and Type of Hypoxia
The fourth, fifth, and sixth studies in the series examine the synergy between the type of acute hypoxia and the inter-set rest configuration during a hypertrophic resistance training session. Sixteen active men participated in this segment of the study, revealing that shorter inter-set rest periods are associated with greater increases in various physiological markers such as heart rate and maximal blood lactate in all conditions.
Chronic Effects of Training in Hypoxia and Normoxia
Finally, the seventh study aims to assess the long-term effects of resistance training in hypoxia and normoxia on both muscle hypertrophy and maximal strength development. Over an 8-week training program, the research finds no added benefit of RTH over RTN on muscle mass development, though it does indicate a favoring of gains in strength in hypoxic conditions.
Citation: Benavente Bardera, Cristina. Effect of hypertrophy training at moderate altitude on the response of metabolic stress markers and associated muscle growth mechanisms.. Granada: Universidad de Granada, 2023. https://hdl.handle.net/10481/84700.