Research
Mixed
Practicing the strength test (one maximal repetition per set) and minimal dose eccentric resistance exercise are emerging concepts that show promise for increasing muscle strength but require further ecological validation.
While promising, these strategies (maximal single reps or eccentric-only) are still being validated for real-world use. Stick to standard minimal doses (Weekend Warrior or Single-Set) until more evidence is available.
ModerateQualifiesMEDIUM confidence
Practicing the strength test, which minimizes repetition number and session duration, is one maximal repetition performed in one or more sets, multiple days per week... snacking and eccentric minimal doses are emerging concepts with promising results.
Why this rating
Mostly proof-of-concept studies; ecological validity needs demonstration.
Source
Resistance Exercise Minimal Dose Strategies for Increasing Muscle Strength in the General Population: an Overview
James L. Nuzzo et al. · Sports Medicine · 2024
DOI 10.1007/s40279-024-02009-0
narrative_reviewCited 45×
Read the paper DOI resolved against Crossref · corpus check 2026-06-10
More from this paper
- Performing resistance exercise once per week (Weekend Warrior) or using single-set protocols significantly increases muscle strength in untrained individuals compared to no exercise, despite volumes being lower than standard guidelines.Good
- Resistance exercise 'snacking' (brief bouts of exercise performed daily or multiple times daily) improves muscle strength and reduces muscular discomfort/sleepiness in untrained individuals.Moderate
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