Bodybuilders generally train
with moderate loads and fairly short rest intervals that induce
high amounts of metabolic stress. Powerlifters, on the other
hand, routinely train with high-intensity loads and lengthy rest
periods between sets. Although both groups are known to
display impressive muscularity, it is not clear which method is
superior for hypertrophic gains. It has been shown that many
factors mediate the hypertrophic process and that mechanical
tension, muscle damage, and metabolic stress all can play a role
in exercise-induced muscle growth. Therefore, the purpose of
this paper is twofold: (a) to extensively review the literature as to
the mechanisms of muscle hypertrophy and their application to
exercise training and (b) to draw conclusions from the research
as to the optimal protocol for maximizing muscle growth.