Hemodynamic Consequences of Circuit Weight Training

Abstract

Abstract Sixty-six young men ( age = 18.2 yr) volunteered to participate in a 12-wk program of intensive circuit weight training. The training program met 3 day/wk, 27 min/session. Heart rates during training ranged between 138 (recovery) and 186 (third set of work). Assessments of resting heart rate and blood pressure; heart rate, cardiac output (CO2 rebreathing), stroke volume, and arteriovenous oxygen difference during standardized submaximal arm and leg work; and heart rate and oxygen uptake during maximal arm and leg work were made at the beginning and at the conclusion of the 12 wk. Neither control nor experimental subjects changed significantly with respect to any dependent variable measured. Substantial strength gains were recorded in the experimental subjects during the training program, however. Probable reasons for the lack of significant cardiovascular adaptations are discussed.