Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA) Practice Exam

During resistance training, which physiological change is primarily responsible for initial strength gains?

1. Muscle hypertrophy

2. Neural adaptations

3. Increased muscle fiber size

4. Increased metabolic rate

The correct answer is: Neural adaptations

Initial strength gains during resistance training can be primarily attributed to neural adaptations. When someone begins a resistance training program, the body undergoes various changes in the nervous system that enhance the ability to recruit motor units and synchronize the firing of these units. This improved communication between the nervous system and muscle fibers allows for more effective and efficient muscle contractions. Neural adaptations include increased activation of the agonist muscles, reduced coactivation of antagonist muscles, and improved intermuscular coordination. These changes can occur relatively quickly, often within the first few weeks of training, leading to noticeable strength improvements before significant muscle hypertrophy takes place. In contrast, muscle hypertrophy and increases in muscle fiber size typically occur later in the training process, after consistent resistance training has been performed over time. Increased metabolic rate is also not a direct contributor to initial strength gains, as it refers more to the overall energy expenditure and physiological processes involved in recovery and adaptation rather than immediate strength improvements.