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Comparing Isometric and Dynamic Resistance Training: Impact on Muscle Performance and Body Composition

Effectiveness of Isometric versus Dynamic Resistance Training on Muscle Performance and Body Composition in Healthy adults

Status
Not yet recruiting
Phases
Unknown
Study type
Interventional
Source
ANZCTR
Registry ID
ACTRN12624000617561
Acronym
ISO_RT
Enrollment
20
Registered
2024-05-13
Start date
2024-09-21
Completion date
2024-12-31
Last updated
2024-05-21

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

None listed

Brief summary

This study aims to evaluate the effects of multi-joint isometric resistance training at various joint angles on several aspects of muscular fitness, including strength (both isometric and dynamic), power, muscle endurance, muscle hypertrophy (both whole body and region-specific), and fatigue recovery. These outcomes will be compared to those of traditional resistance training (i.e., dynamic/isotonic), with careful attention to ensuring equal volume and intensity between the groups. The study will adopt a randomised controlled trial design, with eligible participants randomly assigned to either an isometric resistance training group or a traditional resistance training group. Participants will engage in 3 sets of 6 repetitions each for the chest press and leg press exercises. In the traditional resistance training group, sets will involve isotonic contractions (ISOT) with the full range of motion (ROM) at 80% of their one-repetition maximum (1RM). Conversely, the isometric resistance training group will perform isometric contractions (ISOM) at 80% of their maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), with each set executed at a different angle within the normal lifting range of motion (i.e., lower third, middle third, and upper third). It is anticipated that this research will provide insights into the longitudinal effects of isometric resistance training on muscle performance.

Interventions

Isometric Resistance Training Group: Materials: Keiser pneumatic resistance machines (Keiser Sports Health Equipment, Inc., Fresno, CA 93706, USA). Procedures: Participants will engage in multi-joint isometric resistance training exercises targeting the chest (i.e., chest press) and leg muscles (i.e., leg press). Delivery: Conducted in a group setting at a designated fitness facility under the supervision of researchers. Frequency and Duration: There will be three sessions per week for a tot

Isometric Resistance Training Group: Materials: Keiser pneumatic resistance machines (Keiser Sports Health Equipment, Inc., Fresno, CA 93706, USA). Procedures: Participants will engage in multi-joint isometric resistance training exercises targeting the chest (i.e., chest press) and leg muscles (i.e., leg press). Delivery: Conducted in a group setting at a designated fitness facility under the supervision of researchers. Frequency and Duration: There will be three sessions per week for a total of 12 weeks. Each session will include three sets of 6 repetitions each for the chest press and leg press exercises. Each session lasts approximately 60 minutes. Specifics: Isometric contractions will be performed at 80% of the participant's maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Each participant's MVC will be determined before the beginning of the trial, reassessed midway through the study, and the training load adjusted accordingly. Each set will be executed at a different angle within the normal lifting range of motion (i.e., lower third, middle third, and upper third). Adherence/Fidelity: Adherence will be monitored through attendance records for each session. Fidelity will be ensured through standardized protocols and regular training sessions for the intervention providers. Location: The study will be conducted at the Susan Wakil Health Building level 5, the University of Sydney (Camperdown).

Sponsors

University of Sydney
Lead SponsorUniversity

Study design

Allocation
Randomised controlled trial
Primary purpose
Educational / counselling / training

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
Male
Age
18 Years to 45 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes

Inclusion criteria

1) male, 2) aged 18-45 years; 3) not engaged in structured resistance training, and 4) be apparently healthy.

Exclusion criteria

1) unstable medical conditions that would preclude exercising; 2) current musculoskeletal injuries, conditions, or limitations (e.g., muscle strain/pain and joint instability) of the upper or lower body; 3) current lower back pain; and 4) inguinal, femoral, or umbilical hernia.

Outcome results

None listed

Source: ANZCTR · Data processed: Feb 4, 2026