Author(s): IRIT, M., ALTMAN, A., GEPNER, Y., Institution: TEL-AVIV UNIVERSITY, Country: ISRAEL, Abstract-ID: 1409

INTRODUCTION:
This study aimed to elucidate the association between body composition and strength performance improvements following 8 weeks of high-volume training regimen among young males.
METHODS:
Thirty young males (23.5±1.96 years, 75.5±5.9 kg) participated before (T0) and after 8 weeks of high-volume training regimen (T2). Measurements days included blood markers, anthropometric and strength evaluations, such as hand grip (HG), maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), pull-ups and bench presses. In a sensitivity analysis, the participants were stratified using k-means clustering based on their differences in body composition at baseline. Lower skeletal muscle mass and free-fat mass (LSMFF, n=20) and higher skeletal muscle mass and free-fat mass (HSMFF, n=10) conditions were analyzed using an independent sample T-test.
RESULTS:
We observed two clusters with significant (p<0.001) differences, based on changes in skeletal muscle mass and fat-free mass at baseline. HSMFF significantly (p<0.001) improved muscle mass in the right hand, both legs and torso at T2 compared to LSMFF. Changes in bench press, push-ups, and IMTP were significantly (p<0.05) higher in HSMFF compared to LSMFF. Eosinophils were significantly (p<0.05) lower among the HSMFF at T2 compared to LSMFF. No changes were found in other blood measurements.
CONCLUSION:
Our study revealed distinct body composition clusters among young males at baseline which are associated with changes in performance. These findings indicate that higher levels of muscle mass and fat-free mass serve as key indicators of enhanced strength performance following such a high-volume exercise training protocol.