Effects of a 12-Week Low-Intensity Resistance Training Program on Force-Matching Task and Balance in Young Men

Featured Application Specialists promoting physical activity as a means of prevention of many diseases, including lifestyle diseases, and treating physical activity as an important element of public health, gain additional knowledge about the effects of resistance training. The systematic use of low-intensity resistance exercise, in addition to the well-known benefits, leads to improved accuracy in matching force to the demands of a motor task.Abstract Background: The effects of low-intensity resistance training on health and muscular performance have been widely reported, but its effects on motor skills such as balance and force matching have been overlooked. Hence, the purpose of this study was to determine the effects of low-intensity resistance training on a force-matching task and balance. Methods: The subjects from the intervention group (EXP; n = 20) participated in a 12-week low-intensity resistance training program. The measurements of balance and force-matching ability were conducted before and after the intervention. To determine the accuracy and steadiness (variability) in the force matching task, we calculated the values of three errors: (1) absolute error (AE), (2) constant error (CE), and (3) variable error (VE). Results: In the force-matching task performed after the training, the values of two errors decreased: (1) AE (right leg, p = 0.0008; left leg, p = 0.0008), and (2) CE (right leg, p = 0.0064; left leg, p = 0.0440). Resistance training did not significantly affect VE and the parameters characterizing COP sway in the balance test. Conclusions: The 12-week low-intensity resistance training improved the accuracy of the force-matching task but did not change postural stability or postural strategies.

Automated summary

The study aimed to determine the effects of low-intensity resistance training on force-matching task and balance. The results showed that a 12-week low-intensity resistance training improved the accuracy of the force-matching task, but did not affect postural stability or strategies.