Neural adaptations
Researchers note that DOMS and the RBE may have a more
systemic outcome, known as cross-transfer or cross education,
where the strength gains and reduced soreness seen in
conjunction with the RBE, carry over to seemingly uninvolved
areas of the body. In a review of 13 studies, Munn
et al., 2004 reported that an average increase in strength
of 35% in the trained limb was accompanied by a significant
7.8% increase in the untrained limb. The results of this metaanalysis
were further supported by Starbucks and Eston
(2012). Subjects performed bicep exercises of one arm to
induce DOMS and the RBE. Researchers discovered the
strength increases associated with the RBE did carryover to
the contralateral arm (Starbuck and Eston, 2012). This suggests
that DOMS may be centrally mediated and implies some
degree of neural adaptation, as there was no direct training
stimulus to the untrained muscles.