Responsiveness of muscle mass gain to different load intensities of resistance training in older women: A randomized crossover study.
Exp GerontolAug 4, 2026 (epub)
Alex S Ribeiro, Gerardo Sansone, Paolo M Cunha et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized crossover study examined the effects of two resistance training load intensities (15RM and 10RM) on skeletal muscle mass (SMM) in 27 older women. Both protocols resulted in significant increases in estimated SMM, with 15RM showing an increase of +0.62 kg and 10RM +0.43 kg. The study found no significant difference in responsiveness between the two loading schemes.
Key findings
- Both 15RM and 10RM loading schemes significantly increased estimated SMM (+0.62 kg vs. +0.43 kg).
- 61.1% of participants were classified as responders in at least one condition.
- 48.1% of participants were responders under both loading schemes.
- Only 25.9% of participants changed responsiveness status between interventions.
Why it matters
Understanding the impact of different resistance training intensities on muscle mass gain is crucial for developing effective exercise prescriptions for older adults, who are at risk of muscle loss due to aging.