Effect of protein intake on muscle strength and hypertrophy during whole-body vibration training

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: There is no consensus regarding the mechanism of strength enhancement of regular whole-body vibration training (WBVT), which involves only neural or neural plus muscular adaptation. This discord could be based on lack of protein supplement to diet in WBVT. This study aimed to clarify the effects of adding protein to the diet on hypertrophy and strength during whole-body vibration training (WBVT). METHODS: Young healty male adults, 20-30 years old were grouped into control (n = 15) and protein groups (n = 14). All experimental subjects performed WBVT 3 days per week for 12 weeks. During WBVT, the protein group was provided with whey protein (1 g/kg) and the control group was provided with carbohydrate (1 g/kg starch isolate). Baseline measurements (pretest) were done before the training program started while the last measurements (post-test) took place after the 12-w program. Body fat ratio and lean body mass were measured using bioelectrical impedance and hydrostatic weighing methods. Mid-thigh circumference (cm) and thigh skinfold measurement (cm) were used to calculate leg muscle area. The changes in muscle strength were evaluated by measuring jump height, hand-grip and leg strength. RESULTS: There were significant within-group differences between the post and in pre-training strength values of muscular strength but no between-group differences were noted. There were no changes in leg muscle area, body fat ratio and lean body mass in the control group. CONCLUSION: Protein supplementation does not affect strength and muscle mass after WBVT.