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Effect of Structured Resistance Training on Neuromuscular Activation in Underweight Young Male Adults

International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology · 2026

This study had 30 underweight young men do a structured 4-day-per-week weightlifting program for 9 months at 70% of their max lift, measuring changes in muscle electrical activity (RMS-EMG), strength (MVC), and power (peak RFD). The training significantly increased muscle activation across the legs and arms (29-42%), improved maximum strength, and boosted power output by 31%, though trained participants still showed about 12% less activation than normal-weight controls.
Takeaway: Start a progressive resistance training program at 70% of your 1RM performed 4 times weekly to meaningfully improve neuromuscular efficiency if you're underweight.
Abstract (source)

Background: Underweight status (BMI < 18.5 kg/m²) in young male adults is associated with reduced skeletal muscle mass, impaired motor unit recruitment, and diminished neuromuscular efficiency.

Objective: To assess changes in RMS-EMG, MVC force, and peak RFD following a 9-month structured RT program in underweight young males.

Methods: Thirty underweight young males (BMI 15.8-18.4kg/m², age 18-28 years) undertook a 9-month, 4-session/week fullbody progressive RT program at 70% 1RM.RMS-EMG of the vastus lateralis (VL), biceps brachii (BB), and triceps brachii (TB) was recorded pre-and post-intervention using standardized sEMG procedures.

Results: RMS-EMG increased significantly across all muscles (VL: 42.3%, BB: 36.7%,TB: 29.4%; p < 0.001).MVC improved from 142.3 ± 18.4 N to 178.6 ± 22.1 N (p < 0.001) and peak RFD increased by 31.2% (p = 0.003).Large effect sizes (Cohen's d = 1.4-1.8)were observed.Post-training RMS-EMG remained 12% below normal-weight controls (p = 0.04).

Conclusion: Structured RT significantly enhances neuromuscular activation in underweight young males through neural adaptation mechanisms, supporting its role as a rehabilitative intervention for this population.

Primary studyOpen accessResistance Training & HypertrophyProgramming & Periodization
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