Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of low-intensity strength training with vascular occlusion on specific parameters of neural drive using amplitude and spectral analysis of surface electromyography. Equipment and methods: Twenty individuals were assigned to one of two groups (low-intensity strength training with or without vascular occlusion). The first group performed three sets of knee extension exercises until failure, with a 90seconds interval between sets, while the second group performed three sets of the mean repetitions of the first group. Both groups performed the exercises with the load set at 20% of estimated 1 maximal repetition. To assess electromyographic parameters, sessions 1, 7 and 12 were evaluated, specifically from the first to third repetitions and the 3 final repetitions. One maximal repetition was measured in the same collection times. Results: Our findings demonstrated that low-intensity strength training with vascular occlusion improved muscular strength; however, it did not affect the neural drive, since there were no differences in the investigated parameters between sessions. Conclusion: Low-intensity strength training with vascular occlusion is effective for producing muscular strength; however, it is not indicated for increases in neural activity.
© Copyright 2019 Science & Sports. Elsevier. All rights reserved.