Voluntary strength and muscle contractile properties of the elbow extensors were examined over two periods: 10 days of rest and 10 days of reduced volume (eventually 38%), but intensity maintained, taper. It was found that voluntary low-velocity strength could be increased by reducing training volume but maintaining training intensity after a period of sustained high-intensity training. This is a preferred method of recovery and should not be interpreted as a training regimen. The reasons for this improvement could be enhanced contractile performance or an increase in neural activation, factors that are debilitated by fatigue. Implication: After sustained strength training, the introduction of a microcycle that maintains the intensity of the training stimulus but reduces volume by approximately 40% will provoke strength performance recovery over a period of 8-10 days.
© Copyright 1994 International Journal of Sports Medicine. Thieme. All rights reserved.