If we divide classic linear periodization into two phases: the higher volume/lower intensity (hypertrophy) and lower volume/higher intensity (strength), does that mean that the lifter will lose muscle mass in the intensity phase since the volume is low? In other words, if hypertrophy is about stress accumulation, would lowering the volume in the intensity phase cause the muscles to atrophy?
Hypertrophy is not about stress accumulation. Nope.
Can you expand on that, Jordan? What am I missing?
Isn’t hypertrophy dependent on volume?
Hypertrophy depends on motor unit recruitment, range of motion, and total amount of stimulus (volume). The signal for hypertrophy is not really carried over (accumulated) however, as it’s accrued at each session.
So the lifter is able to build muscle by lifting at a certain stimulus or volume at the appropriate intensity. Then what exactly is stress accumulation? Is it a measure for fatigue?