Peer-reviewed study
A planned break did not erase the final training result
Does Taking a Break Matter-Adaptations in Muscle Strength and Size Between Continuous and Periodic Resistance Training
Last updated 2026-07-21
Kris Oddo, NASM-certified personal trainer, is the founder and head coach of Gains From Geebs (Geebs Coaching), a 1:1 online fitness coaching practice.
Quick answer
What this study found
An occasional training break does not have to become a panic. Return with a progressive plan and let consistency rebuild the lost ground.
How strong is this kind of study?
- Reviews of many studies
- Controlled trialsThis study
- Observational
- Narrative reviews
Randomized controlled trial. Heavier plates are built from more studies, so they move less when the next one lands.
At a glance
What kind of study this is
Strong evidence
A controlled trial, where people were randomly assigned. That is the design that can actually show cause rather than coincidence.
- Design
- Randomized controlled trial
- Published
- 2024
- Journal
- Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
- Reference
- PMID 39364857
Honest limits
What this study does not prove.
The participants were previously untrained adults following a controlled program. The result does not mean breaks improve gains or that long layoffs carry no cost.
Kris's practical takeaway
Here's what to do with it.
An occasional training break does not have to become a panic. Return with a progressive plan and let consistency rebuild the lost ground.
Ways to use it
Safe ways to apply it.
A break is a detour, not the end of the program
Come back progressively instead of trying to repay missed workouts
Catching up does not mean the break caused better growth
Related questions
Questions this research helps answer.
Related guides and studies
Keep learning about fitness.
FAQ
Quick questions
What is the practical takeaway from this study?
An occasional training break does not have to become a panic. Return with a progressive plan and let consistency rebuild the lost ground.
What does this study not prove?
The participants were previously untrained adults following a controlled program. The result does not mean breaks improve gains or that long layoffs carry no cost.
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