Even though both groups trained the same amount of time, the regular three-set group got stronger faster than the drop set group.

Scientific Claim

In young men, the magnitude of strength gains from conventional resistance training (ES=1.34) is larger than from drop set training (ES=0.88) after six weeks, despite similar training frequency and duration.

Original Statement

“Strength increased in both groups (16.1±12.1%, ES=0.88 for DS and 25.2±17.5%, ES=1.34 for NS).”

From study:Effects of drop set resistance training on acute stress indicators and long-term muscle hypertrophy and strength.

Evidence Quality Assessment

Claim Status

appropriately stated

Study Design Support

Design supports claim

Appropriate Language Strength

association

Can only show association/correlation

Assessment Explanation

The claim correctly uses effect sizes and avoids causal language. The association between protocol and strength gain magnitude is accurately described.

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

Effects of drop set resistance training on acute stress indicators and long-term muscle hypertrophy and strength.

Randomized Controlled Trial

Human

The study found that lifting weights the traditional way (multiple sets) made young men stronger than using drop sets, even though both methods took the same amount of time and effort.

Contradicting (0)

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

Effects of drop set resistance training on acute stress indicators and long-term muscle hypertrophy and strength.

Score: 45

DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.17.06838-4

Similar Assertions

If you're already experienced with lifting weights, doing drop sets (lowering the weight after failure) doesn't help you get stronger than doing regular sets, as long as you do the same total amount of work.

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Even though guys doing drop sets did only one set instead of three, their muscles grew just as much or more than those who did three sets.

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Drop sets made guys feel more tired and their muscles puff up more after one workout, but they didn’t make them stronger in the long run than regular sets.

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If you do the same total amount of work, using drop sets won’t make your muscles bigger or stronger than doing regular sets over two months.

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After just one workout, drop sets made muscles swell more and temporarily made guys weaker than before, while regular sets didn’t cause these changes.

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