The Claim
In resistance-trained males undergoing moderate caloric restriction, six weeks of resistance training at either 12 or 20 sets per week results in no change in muscle contractility and stiffness of the rectus femoris.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Among men who regularly lift weights and are eating fewer calories, training with either 12 or 20 sets per week for six weeks does not change the contractility or stiffness of the rectus femoris muscle.
See the scientific wording
In resistance-trained males undergoing moderate caloric restriction, muscle contractility and stiffness of the rectus femoris remain unchanged after six weeks regardless of whether training volume is 12 or 20 sets per week, suggesting that higher volume does not impair or enhance neuromuscular function under these conditions.
When muscles are trained and the body is in a calorie deficit, the muscles keep their strength and stiffness because the rate at which muscle proteins break down matches the rate they are rebuilt, and the nerves controlling the muscles keep sending the same level of signals to them.
What the research says
1 studyWhen men who lift weights lose weight on a moderate diet, doing more or fewer sets per week doesn't change how well their thigh muscles contract or how stiff they are — both groups ended up with the same muscle function.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.