ACSM revises resistance training position stand. What’s new? Seventeen years after the last ACSM Position Stand on resistance training, the update is finally here. The previous stand was published in 2009, and this new paper draws on 137 systematic reviews and data from more than 30,000 participants (46% women), making it the most comprehensive summary yet of how resistance training can be prescribed to improve strength, hypertrophy, power, and - critically - physical function. The big message is reassuring: many forms of resistance training work. Free weights, machines, elastic bands, home-based training, circuit training, velocity-based training, and power-focused training can all improve outcomes when done with sufficient effort and progression. A few variables seem to matter most if you want to optimize outcomes. For strength, heavier loads, a full range of motion, about 2 to 3 sets, and training at least twice per week stand out. For hypertrophy, higher weekly volume, especiall...