Full Range of Motion vs Partial Range Training

How ROM used influences muscle architecture and mechanical properties.

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This study investigated the effects of full range of motion (ROM) vs. partial ROM resistance training on muscle architecture and mechanical properties of the vastus lateralis (VL) muscle.

PMID: 29982844

Key Points

Aim

To determine how 15 weeks of partial ROM resistance training impacts VL architecture and mechanical properties when time under tension (TUT) is equalised.

Methods

• 19 untrained male subjects were randomly assigned to control (n=8) or training (n=11) groups for 15 weeks.

• Training group: Dominant and non-dominant legs were randomly assigned to full ROM (FULL) or partial ROM (PART) training using an isokinetic dynamometer

• FULL: 0-100° knee flexion; PART: 0-60° knee flexion

• TUT equalised by adjusting sets/repetitions

• Measurements: VL architecture (ultrasound), muscle volume, torque-angle relationship, physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA), specific tension

Results

• FULL training increased fascicle length (4.9 ± 2.0%) and specific tension (25.8 ± 18.7%)

• PART training moderately increased PCSA (7.8 ± 4.0%) and angle-specific strength (average 17.7 ± 3.9% increase)

Practical Applications

• Full ROM training may be more effective for increasing fascicle length and specific tension

• Partial ROM training may be beneficial for increasing PCSA and angle-specific strength gains

• Training ROM can be manipulated to target specific muscle adaptations

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Related

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Delt Raises: How Different Hand Grips and ROM Used Can Effect Muscle Activation

Strength Training vs Stretching for Improving Range of Motion

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Key Takeaways

1. Muscle architectural and mechanical adaptations depend on the ROM used in strength training

2. Full ROM training promotes increases in fascicle length and specific tension

3. Partial ROM training leads to greater PCSA and angle-specific strength adaptations

4. Concentric-only training with greater ROM can increase fascicle length and specific tension

5. ROM manipulation can be used to target specific muscle adaptations in training programs

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Reference

Valamatos MJ, Tavares F, Santos RM, Veloso AP, Mil-Homens P. Influence of full range of motion vs. equalized partial range of motion training on muscle architecture and mechanical properties. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2018 Sep;118(9):1969-1983. doi: 10.1007/s00421-018-3932-x. Epub 2018 Jul 7. PMID: 29982844.