WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAIN?
What combination of resistance training variables (load, sets, frequency) works best for gaining muscle strength and size? We've got answers backed by science! 💪
We performed the largest-ever network meta-analysis on resistance training (178 studies, 5097 participants for strength, 119 studies, 3364 participants for hypertrophy)
🎯 Main takeaway:
ALL resistance training prescriptions improved strength and hypertrophy compared to no exercise, and there was actually NO statistically significant difference between them!
👉 Train smarter, not just harder! Choose what you prefer, stay consistent, and keep lifting!
If you care about maximizing results:
✅ Strength Gains (5097 people studied 45% women):
🥇 Heavier Loads, Multiple Sets, 3x/week — Ranked ‘best’ (Effect size: 1.60)
🥈 Heavier Loads, Multiple Sets, 2x/week (Effect size: 1.59)
🥉 Heavier Loads, Multiple Sets, 1x/week (Effect size: 1.54)
HEAVIER loads win because that’s what you’re practicing d...
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