There might be a sweet spot for lifting — too little doesn’t help much, but too much also doesn’t help, and the best results come from just the right amount.
Scientific Claim
The relationship between resistance training volume and muscle strength in trained men may follow an inverted U-shaped pattern, where moderate volumes (5–10 sets) yield the best results and higher volumes (15–20 sets) yield diminished returns.
Original Statement
“The results bring evidence of an inverted 'U shaped' curve for the dose response curve for muscle strength.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
overstated
Study Design Support
Design cannot support claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The term 'evidence of an inverted U-shaped curve' implies a theoretical model inferred from data trends, but without confirmed RCT design, this remains speculative. The verb 'bring evidence of' overstates the conclusion.
More Accurate Statement
“In trained men, muscle strength gains appear to be highest at moderate resistance training volumes (5–10 sets per week) and lower at higher volumes (15–20 sets per week), which may suggest an inverted U-shaped association between volume and strength outcomes.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Evidence of a Ceiling Effect for Training Volume in Muscle Hypertrophy and Strength in Trained Men - Less is More?
Lifting weights 5 to 10 times a week made men stronger, but lifting 15 to 20 times didn’t make them any stronger — proving that more isn’t always better.