Strength and Body Composition Changes in Recreationally Strength-Trained Individuals: Comparison of One versus Three Sets Resistance-Training Programmes

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of increasing the volume of weight-training from one to three sets upon body composition and muscular strength. METHODS Sixteen male weight-trainers volunteered to act as subjects and were randomly assigned to one of two training groups. Supervised weight-training targeting the upper body was conducted three times per week for eight weeks using one set (n = 8) or three sets (n = 8) of six repetitions to fatigue. Subjects were measured before and after the training intervention for (1) strength performance (N and kg) and (2) adiposity (sum of seven skinfold thicknesses in mm). RESULTS Both training groups improved significantly (20.7%) in terms of muscular strength (P < 0.05) with no differences being observed between the one set (21.98% increase) and three set group (20.71% increase) after the training interventions (P > 0.05). Significant decreases were also observed for skinfold measures in the one set group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS One set of high intensity resistance training was as effective as three sets for increasing the strength of muscle groups in the upper body. The one set protocol also produced significantly greater decreases in adiposity.