Article

Although resistance training adaptations in multiple sclerosis (MS)
patients have been described, the detraining response in this population is
largely unknown. OBJECTIVE: [corrected] This study was designed to evaluate the
effects of a 12-week detraining period on muscle strength (isometric and
endurance) and muscle power of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients that had
previously carried out a 12-week resistance training program (RTP). METHODS:
Forty-two MS patients were randomly assigned into two groups: an exercise group
(EG) that performed a 12-week RTP for the knee extensors muscles; and a control
group (CG), that did not perform any specific training. Knee extension maximal
voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), muscle power and muscle endurance were
evaluated before and after the RTP, as well as 12 weeks after training
completion. A strain gauge was used to measure the maximal voluntary isometric
contraction and muscle power was assessed with a linear encoder. Muscle endurance
was interpreted as the number of repetitions that a patient could perform in a
single set of knee extension exercise. RESULTS: The EG increased MVIC and muscle
power after the training period, although the training did not affect muscle
endurance. After 12 weeks of detraining, MVIC returned to pre-training values but
muscle power was still greater than pre-training values in the EG. The CG did not
present any change in the variables measured during the intervention.
CONCLUSIONS: A 12-week RTP improved MVIC and muscle power in MS patients.
Additionally, 12 weeks of detraining blunted strength training adaptations in MS
patients, although muscle power training adaptations were still evident after the
detraining period.

Langue : ANGLAIS