Hypotensive Effect Induced by Strength Training Using the Delorme and Oxford Methods in Trained Men

Introduction. The aim of the study was to investigate the hypotensive responses in normotensive trained individuals after strength training (ST) performed using two training methods: DeLorme and Oxford. Material and methods. Fifteen normotensive trained men (age: 25.1 ± 3.2 years; height: 1.78 ± 0.01 m; BMI: 24.78 ± 1.4 kg/m²) were examined alternately in crossover with an interval of 72 hours between the DeLorme and Oxford methods. Firstly, 10 repetition maximum (RM) loads were obtained. DeLorme (50%, 70%, and 90%) and Oxford (90%, 70%, and 50%) consisted in the manipulation of 10RM loads so that the subjects performed three sets until failure in the Smith Machine (SM) and the Leg Press 45° (LP). Blood pressure was recorded at rest, post-exercise, and until 60 min post-session at 10-min intervals. Results. Both the DeLorme and Oxford methods showed significant intra-protocol reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP) at 40, 50, and 60 min time points compared to the rest value (F = 21.848; p = 0.0001). Similar results were noted for diastolic blood pressure (DBP) between rest value and the 60 min time point (F = 46.113; p = 0.0001). Conclusions. The DeLorme and Oxford resistance training methods provided similar hemodynamic responses and similar hypotensive effects. Therefore, these methods can be used as alternatives to manipulate training intensity-volume ratio intra-session with low hemodynamic stress.