Single vs. Multiple-Set Resistance Training in Sedentary Men

NCT07337304 | Completed

• 1 other identifier: INU-RT-SSMS-01
• Study Type: interventional
• Target: 34
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

Brief Summary

This study aimed to compare the effects of single-set versus multiple-set resistance training on neuromuscular performance and muscle morphology in sedentary men. Participants were randomly assigned to a single-set training group, a multiple-set training group, or a non-training control group. The intervention consisted of a structured resistance training program performed over a defined training period, while the control group maintained their usual lifestyle without structured exercise. Neuromuscular performance outcomes included maximal strength and functional performance measures, and muscle morphology was assessed using appropriate imaging and anthropometric methods. The findings of this study are intended to contribute to the understanding of optimal resistance training volume for improving neuromuscular adaptations in previously untrained individuals.

Conditions

Resistance Training Adaptation; Sedentary Lifestyle; Neuromuscular Adaptations

Keywords

Resistance training; Single-set training; Multiple-set training; Neuromuscular performance; Muscle morphology; Sedentary men

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (1)

• Maximal Muscle Strength (1RM)

  Change in maximal muscle strength assessed by one-repetition maximum (1RM) testing for major upper- and lower-body exercises.

  Baseline and Week 8

Secondary Outcomes (6)

• Muscle morphology

  Baseline and Week 8

• Vertical Jump Height

  Baseline and Week 8

• 20-m Sprint Time

  Baseline and Week 8

• Handgrip Strength

  Baseline and Week 8

• Estimated VO₂max

  Baseline and Week 8

Study Arms (3)

Single-Set Resistance Training

EXPERIMENTAL

Participants performed a supervised resistance training program consisting of one set per exercise. Training was conducted at moderate intensity using standard resistance exercises targeting major muscle groups.

Behavioral: Resistance Training

Multiple-Set Resistance Training

EXPERIMENTAL

Participants performed a supervised resistance training program consisting of multiple sets per exercise. Exercise selection, intensity, and training frequency were comparable to the single-set group.

Behavioral: Resistance Training

Control Group

NO INTERVENTION

Participants did not participate in any structured exercise training program and were instructed to maintain their usual daily activities throughout the study period.

Interventions

Resistance Training BEHAVIORAL

A structured and supervised resistance training program performed at moderate intensity using free weights and resistance machines.

Multiple-Set Resistance Training; Single-Set Resistance Training

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 18 Years - 40 Years
• Sex: male
• Healthy Volunteers: Yes
• Age Groups: Adult (18-64)

You may qualify if:

• Male participants aged between 18 and 40 years
• Sedentary lifestyle (no structured resistance training in the previous 6 months)
• Apparently healthy, with no known cardiovascular, metabolic, or musculoskeletal disorders
• Ability to participate in resistance training exercise
• Willingness to provide written informed consent

You may not qualify if:

• Participation in regular resistance or structured exercise training within the past 6 months
• History of musculoskeletal injury or surgery that could limit exercise performance
• Presence of cardiovascular, neurological, or metabolic disease
• Use of medications or supplements known to affect muscle function or performance
• Any condition deemed unsafe for participation by the investigators

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Inonu University: lead

Study Sites (1)

Inonu University, Faculty of Sport Sciences

Malatya, 44280, Turkey (Türkiye)

Location

MeSH Terms

Conditions

Sedentary Behavior

Interventions

Resistance Training

Condition Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Behavior

Intervention Hierarchy (Ancestors)

Exercise Therapy; Rehabilitation; Aftercare; Continuity of Patient Care; Patient Care; Therapeutics; Physical Therapy Modalities; Physical Conditioning, Human; Exercise; Motor Activity; Movement; Musculoskeletal Physiological Phenomena; Musculoskeletal and Neural Physiological Phenomena

Study Design

• Study Type: interventional
• Phase: not applicable
• Allocation: RANDOMIZED
• Masking: NONE
• Masking Details: This study was conducted as an open-label trial. Due to the nature of the exercise interventions, neither participants nor investigators were blinded to group allocation.
• Purpose: TREATMENT
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
• PI Title: Researcher

Model Details: Participants were randomly assigned to one of three parallel groups: single-set resistance training, multiple-set resistance training, or a non-exercising control group. All groups were followed concurrently throughout the intervention period.

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: December 14, 2025
• First Posted: January 13, 2026
• Study Start: August 1, 2022
• Primary Completion: December 1, 2022
• Study Completion: December 1, 2022
• Last Updated: January 13, 2026

Record last verified: 2026-01

Data Sharing

• IPD Sharing: Will not share

Locations

TU (1)