30 Seconds Summary
Hardgainers? What We Know About Non-Responders

  • The term 'non-responder' in training studies refers to individuals who didn't respond to a specific training protocol, not necessarily to all training programs.
  • Studies suggest that increasing training frequency can turn 'non-responders' into responders, as evidenced when higher dosages of training resulted in improvements for all participants.
  • The concept of non-response is also challenged in strength training, with a study showing that all elderly participants recorded some gains in strength or muscle size.
  • Hypertrophic non-responders, or those who don’t experience expected muscle growth, may suffer from an exaggerated inflammatory response, hampering progress.
  • Practical suggestions for those struggling to see muscle gains include managing external stressors, tweaking training volume, giving muscles time to adapt, and trying different training styles.
  • A new study highlights the effectiveness of personalized training programs over standardized ones, as they better ensure progress for all participants.

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