Effects of cluster-set vs. traditional resistance exercise with equated total rest on muscular performance, perceived fatigue, and cardiovascular responses in resistance-trained women

Cluster set (CLS) configurations may reduce fatigue while maintaining performance, but evidence in resistance-trained women remains limited when total rest is equated. This study compared the acute effects of traditional set (TRS) and CLS resistance exercise (RE) on post-set cardiovascular responses, muscular performance, and perceived fatigue in resistance-trained women. Twelve women completed three crossover sessions comprising a TRS structure and two CLS configurations with 10-s (CLS10) and 30-s (CLS30) intra-set rest intervals, with total rest equated (120 s). Participants performed four bilateral knee extension sets at 80% 1RM, followed by a muscular endurance test at 60% 1RM. Ratings of fatigue (ROF), blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and rate-pressure product (RPP) were assessed. Fatigue/work (ROF/total repetitions) and cardiovascular load/work (RPP/total repetitions) ratios were also calculated. Muscular performance differed among conditions ( p 0.05). When total rest was equated, CLS configurations improved muscular endurance performance and reduced cardiovascular load-to-work and fatigue-to-work ratios without altering post-set cardiovascular responses. Recovery distribution may therefore enhance RE efficiency in resistance-trained women.