ABSTRACT
Resistance training (RT) is a form of exercise which is universally performed by a range of individuals from clinical populations to elite athletes. A well-implemented, long-term RT programme leads to a wide range of positive effects including: increasing strength, muscle size (hypertrophy), power, and improving various health outcomes. A primary adaptation of any RT programme is an improvement in muscle strength (i.e. the ability of a muscle to produce external force), hence why RT is also known as ‘strength training’. The improvement in strength following RT is achieved through a combination of adaptations within the muscular, nervous and endocrine systems and the type of adaptation that occurs is highly dependent on the training stimulus. Programme variables such as volume, intensity and rest periods can be manipulated in order to bring about specific adaptations based on the goals of the RT session/programme.
