Effects of Concurrent Exercise Protocols on Strength, Aerobic Power, Flexibility and Body Composition

In this study we evaluated the effect of concurrent resistance and endurance training on body composition, aerobic power and muscular endurance in college students and compared the two concurrent exercise protocols. Forty-two male students (22.02±1.91 years of age) were divided into three groups: Concurrent Distinct Endurance-Resistance (CDER), Concurrent Parallel Endurance-Resistance (CPER) and No Training controls (C). The subjects performed two training protocols per week for 12 weeks. In CDER group, resistance training and endurance training were performed on different days each week (two and two days per week). CPER group performed endurance and resistance training on the same days each week (two days per week). After a 12-week training period, fat-free mass, muscular strength [weight lifted in squat and bench press (kg)], muscular endurance [pull-ups and sit-ups (numbers)], aerobic power, flexibility and Sargent jump height increased similarly in both experimental groups (CDER and CPER). Also, decreases in body fat percentage, mean time in 60 m running and agility occurred in CDER and CPER. A significant difference in body fat percentage was seen in CPER when compared to CDER and C. Body mass increased significantly in CPER when compared to CDER and C. Although body mass increased only after the CPER protocol application, it can be concluded that both CDER and CPER protocols were similarly effective in positive transformation of body composition, aerobic power and muscular endurance.