Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 40 Men only

Effects of variable resistance training on neural adaptations

Official title: Neural Adaptations to Metronome-Paced Strength Training: Insights From Neuroscience and Human Movement Variability

Run by Egas Moniz - Cooperativa de Ensino Superior, CRL · NCT06532786 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if adding different timing styles to strength training can improve muscle control and brain function in healthy adults aged 18 to 40.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexMen only
Enrollment60 (estimated)
SponsorEgas Moniz - Cooperativa de Ensino Superior, CRL
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Almada, Monte de Caparica)
StatusRecruiting
StartedSeptember 15, 2024
Main results expectedAugust 30, 2026
Study endsDecember 31, 2026
Registry record updatedJanuary 16, 2026
Trial IDNCT06532786 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are healthy adults aged between 18 and 40 years.

Probably not a fit

Patients with neurologic conditions, lower limb disabilities, or those unable to provide informed consent will not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates how incorporating variability into resistance training methods affects neural adaptations in the corticospinal tract and neuromuscular function. It aims to enhance motor control by using a metronome-paced strength training approach that includes fractal-like variability, which is often absent in traditional resistance training. The study will compare different pacing methods, including fractal paced, isochronous paced, and self-paced training, to assess their impact on muscle function and neural drive. Participants will be healthy adults aged 18 to 40, and the study will utilize techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to measure outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved resistance training methods that enhance motor control and muscle function in healthy individuals.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of incorporating variability in resistance training is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing motor control and neuromuscular function.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* aged between 18 and 40 years

Exclusion Criteria:

* Neurologic conditions;
* Lower limb disabilities or disease;
* Not able to provide informed consent;
* Have an implanted device (e.g. pacemakers) or any metal in the body;
* Medication advised against the application of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation;
* History/family history of seizures, brain lesions or head trauma, neurological or psychiatric diseases, epilepsy, migraine

Where it's running

  • Egas Moniz School of Health & Science
    Almada, Monte de Caparica, Portugal
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.