ACSM Revises Resistance Training Guidance
Synthesized evidence clarifies which training variables enhance strength, hypertrophy, and performance.
By
Kathryn Wighton
March 27, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: ACSM Revises Resistance Training Guidance
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Resistance Training for Healthy Adults Key Mechanisms Improves muscle strength, hypertrophy, power, muscular endurance, and physical function. Target Population Adults aged 18 years and older Care Setting General fitness and rehabilitation settings
Key Highlights
Resistance training improves strength across multiple reviews with a quality-of-evidence score of 73%. Hypertrophy enhanced by higher weekly volume and eccentric-only contractions. Power improved with moderate loads and Olympic-style weightlifting. Circuit and elastic band training show benefits for strength and hypertrophy. Individualized resistance training programs can achieve clinically meaningful benefits. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Assess muscle function and physical performance in adults. Management
Implement progressive resistance training with individualized prescriptions. Monitoring & Follow-up
Evaluate strength, hypertrophy, and physical function improvements. Risks
Limited evidence for certain training methods and outcomes. Patient & Prescribing Data
Healthy adults with varying training experience.
Resistance training should include at least 2 sessions per week with loads of at least 80% of one-repetition maximum.
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize a full range of motion in exercises. Place resistance exercises at the beginning of training sessions. Consider home-based and lower-dose programs for individualization. Related Resources & Content
