Keywords

Muscle Pump, Resistance Exercise, Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis

Abstract

Electrical impedance myography (EIM) is a non-invasive method that assesses body fluid distribution using impedance (Z), resistance (R), reactance (Xc), and phase angle (PhA). These values have previously been used to interpret cellular health and fluid shifts. Acute muscle edema known as a “pump,” has been reported during and after resistance training exercise and the extent to which bioelectrical properties of the muscle tissue are affected during this process remains relatively unexplored. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess changes in EIM during exercise-induced muscle swelling via resistance training. Thirty-one resistance-trained adults (male=21, female=10; age=23.4±6.5 years, BMI=26.17±3.04 kg/m2) completed the study. The first visit included a unilateral, one-repetition maximum biceps curl assessment of the dominant arm. During Visit 2, participants performed 4 sets of 8-12 repetitions of the biceps curl exercise at ~70% one-repetition maximum until failure. EIM, muscle thickness, myotonometry, and upper-arm circumference (UAC) were taken at baseline, immediately after, and 15 minutes following the last set. Additionally, EIM measurements were taken between sets. Changes over time were assessed using repeated-measures ANOVA. Exercise-induced swelling was present after set 4 and 15 minutes following exercise as shown by increased muscle thickness & UAC (p<.001). Across all frequencies, R significantly decreased from baseline to set 4 and 15 minutes following exercise in comparison to the non-exercised arm (p≤0.05). At 5 and 50 kHz, Xc significantly decreased from baseline to 15 minutes following exercise in comparison to the non-exercised arm (p≤0.05). The observed decrease of R suggests a progressive presence of fluid causing myocyte swelling and a decrease of Xc may indicate early mechanisms of cell damage. The findings may reflect a decline in cellular health, however, suggest potential physiological benefits. Clinicals and coaches may use this information to advise patients and athletes on recovery and performance benefits.

Completion Date

2026

Semester

Spring

Committee Chair

Fukuda, David

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Health Professions and Sciences

Department

Kinesiology

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Identifier

DP0053306

Download

Share

COinS
 

Accessibility Statement

This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.