title: Self-selected resistance training intensity in novice weightlifters.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the intensity of self-selected weightlifting exercise in untrained men and women. Thirteen men (age = 19.5 +/- 1.9, height = 70.0 +/- 2.4 in., weight = 174 +/- 20.1 lb, % fat = 14.3 +/- 6.7) and 17 women (age =18.7 +/- 1.0, height = 64.9 +/- 2.3 in., weight = 135.4 +/- 22.8 lb, % fat= 23.4 +/- 4.7) who were novice lifters completed seated bench press, leg extension, seated back row, military press, and biceps curl. Following self-selection trials, subjects' 1 repetition maximum (1RM) was assessed for each lift. Results showed that for both genders, self-selected loads were all below 60% 1RM. All lift intensities were similar for men and women (range = 42-57% 1RM). Repetitions completed and rating of perceived exertion responses were not different between gender. Results show that subjects do not select a lifting intensity sufficient to induce hypertrophic responses and subsequent strength increases.
authors.affiliation: Human Performance Laboratory, Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan 49401, USA. glassst@gvsu.edu
authors.forename: Stephen C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: Glass
authors.forename: Douglas R
authors.initials: DR
authors.lastname: Stanton
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010806:Physical Education and Training / Q000379:methods*; D005082:Physical Exertion; D014891:Weight Lifting / Q000502:physiology*