Do Activities Performed within the Intra-Contrast Rest Interval Affect Neuromuscular Performance during Complex-Contrast Training Protocols?
Daniel Gutiérrez-FloresPedro Emilio Alcaraz-RamónPatrick CormierAntonio Martínez-SerranoTomás T FreitasPublished in: Journal of human kinetics (2024)
The aim of this study was to analyze the acute effects of including different exercises within the intra-contrast rest interval (ICRI) of a complex-contrast training (CCT) session. Seventeen recreationally active males completed three different CCT protocols. Programs consisted of a contrast pair combining a moderate-intensity conditioning activity (i.e., a back squat) with a lower-body high-velocity exercise (i.e., a vertical jump) and only differed in the activities performed during the ICRI: 1) passive recovery (CCT PASS ); 2) a mobility exercise (CCT MOB ); and 3) an upper-body high-intensity strength exercise (i.e., a bench press) (CCT STR ). Countermovement jump and bench press throw metrics were evaluated at baseline and after each set during the workout. The rate of perceived exertion was recorded post-session. Non-significant differences in performance were found between CCT PASS , CCT MOB and CCT STR throughout the session. Significant declines (p < 0.05) were observed for CMJ peak power in the last 2-3 repetitions of each set, irrespective of the protocol. CCT STR was perceived as more intense than CCT PASS and CCT MOB (p < 0.05). From a neuromuscular performance perspective, including activities during the ICRI (mobility drills or high-intensity strength exercises) may be a suitable strategy to optimize CCT prescription since the acute responses were similar to those found with passive rest periods. Finally, prescribing a lower number of repetitions per set is recommended to attenuate mechanical performance impairment during CCT protocols, irrespective of the activities completed within the ICRI.