Isokinetics and Exercise Science - Volume 25, issue 2

Authors: Mikoƚajec, Kazimierz | Maszczyk, Adam | Chalimoniuk, Maƚgorzata | Langfort, Józef | Goƚaś, Artur | Zajc, Adam

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: AIM OF STUDY: The aim of the current study was to investigate the effects of different types of strength exercises on the posturographic parameters as a postural stability indicators and selected plasma catecholamine levels as a marker of sympathetic nerve activity in basketball players. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The sample included 13 male, well-trained basketball players, aged 22.3 ± 2.9 y, with a training experience of 8.6 ± 2.3 years. Participants performed three consecutive exercises in successive weekly microcycles. The athletes performed isometric, concentric and eccentric exercises, with random restriction. Postural stability of all subjects …was evaluated using a force plate before and after each exercise. RESULTS: The results revealed a significantly higher effect on the range of sway (RoS) with eyes closed in medial/lateral direction after concentric exercise and RoS with eyes closed in both directions after eccentric and isometric exercises. A significantly higher effect on the standard deviation of sway was observed in the anterior-posterior axis with eyes closed (p= 0.041) and velocity of COP displacement with open eyes (VCOP_OE) (p= 0.007) after the isometric exercises. A modulating effect of the applied exercise types on plasma NA and A levels was not observed, and the results demonstrated that serum 5HT was elevated in response to concentric exercise while diminished in response to both isometric and eccentric exercises. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that all types of applied exercises impair posture control during single leg stance on a force plate in basketball players but isometric exercise of proximal musculature to a greater extent negatively affects posture control in comparison with distal musculature. Moreover, among the investigated monoamines in well trained athletes, 5HT predominantly took part in modulation of locomotor activity. Show more

Keywords: Physical conditioning, posture control, fatigue, catecholamine, muscle activity

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160648

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 79-89, 2017

Authors: de Araújo, Amanda C. | Ferreira Junior, Adalberto | de Oliveira, Stefany K. | Schamne, Julio C. | Okuno, Nilo M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze and compare heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE) response, and peak blood lactate concentration ([lac]-peak) after a resistance exercise session with and without vascular occlusion. METHODS: Eight male subjects with previous experience in resistance training (23.38 ± 2.38 years; weight 76.75 ± 8.79 kg; height 1.75 ± 0.07 m) took part in this study. After performing a one repetition maximum (1RM) test, the subjects underwent three random sessions in the leg press exercise: (a) 4 sets of 8 repetitions + 1 set …until exhaustion at 80% of 1RM without vascular occlusion (HI); (b) 4 sets of 16 repetitions + 1 set until exhaustion at 40% of 1RM with occlusion (LIO) and (c) 4 sets of 16 repetitions + 1 set with the same number of repetitions as LIO at 40% of 1RM without vascular occlusion (LI), in both legs alternately. RESULTS: It was observed that both HR and RPE were lower during almost all sessions when compared with HI (p< 0.05). In the LI session, both variables were initially similar in comparison with LIO, differentiating during the session (p< 0.05). The [lac]-peak in LIO was lower than HI, but higher than LI (p< 0.001). The correlations between RPE and HR (r= 0.88), RPE and [lac]-peak (r= 0.75), and HR and [lac]-peak (r= 0.84) were all strong. CONCLUSION: Resistance training associated with vascular occlusion causes lower physiological and perceived stress in comparison with conventional high intensity strength training. Show more

Keywords: Physical exercise, muscle strength, heart rate, lactate

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160650

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 91-96, 2017

Authors: de Oliveira Melo, Mônica | Sonda, Francesca Chaida | De Marchi, Tiago | Lunardi, Morgana | Berzoini, Juliane Blankenburg

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND : Runners not habituated to the forefoot strike pattern may require specific strengthening of plantar flexor muscles to prevent injuries. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of eccentric training for ankle plantar flexors on the kinetic and kinematic parameters of forefoot strike running in individuals not habituated to this type of foot strike. METHODS: Twenty-four healthy (12 men, 12 women), 18-25 years of age who were not habituated to forefoot strike running were randomly divided into 2 groups: an experimental group (eccentric training for plantar flexors performed using an isokinetic dynamometer, 3 times a …week for 8 weeks) and a control group (no intervention). Kinetic data (ground reaction force) and kinematic data (angles of the ankle, knee and hip in the sagittal plane) were recorded while the subjects performed the forefoot strike running pattern at their preferred speed before and after a period of 8 weeks. RESULTS: Participants showed a reduction of 20% in the magnitude of the impact as well as an increase of approximately 33% in the plantar flexion angle and an increase of 14% in hip flexion (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Eccentric training generated measurable changes in the forefoot strike pattern and reduced the impact assessed by ground reaction force. Show more

Keywords: Running pattern, impact, joint angle, forefoot

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160651

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 97-103, 2017

Authors: Hill, Ethan C. | Housh, Terry J. | Smith, Cory M. | Schmidt, Richard J. | Johnson, Glen O.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: It has been hypothesized [1] that the amplitude of the mechanomyographic (MMG) signal should track mean power output (MP) during dynamic muscle actions. Bodor's hypothesis has been supported in studies of non-fatigued muscles where MMG amplitude was shown to track velocity-related changes in MP, but not moment production, during concentric and eccentric muscle actions. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to further test the hypothesis of Bodor [1] by examining the patterns of MMG amplitude responses during a fatiguing workbout that included repetitions that were characterized by constant moment production, but decreasing MP. …METHODS: Eleven subjects performed 50 submaximal (65% of peak moment), concentric, isokinetic, forearm flexion repetitions at 60°/s. Polynomial regression analyses were used to examine the composite patterns of responses for moment, MP, and MMG amplitude from the biceps brachii across the fatiguing workbout. RESULTS: There were linear decreases across the repetitions for MP (r = 0.93) and MMG amplitude (r= 0.70), but no change in moment production. CONCLUSIONS: The current findings extend the hypothesis of Bodor [1] to the process of fatigue and suggested that MMG amplitude may be useful for monitoring decreases in MP during submaximal, fatiguing workbout where moment production is maintained. Show more

Keywords: Muscle fatigue, isokinetic, MMG

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160652

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 105-111, 2017

Authors: Germano-Soares, Antonio H. | Montenegro, Rafael A. | Cavalcante, Bruno R. | Domingues, Wagner J.R. | de Lima, Paulo F.M. | Menêses, Annelise L. | Almeida, Tarciso R.M. | Okano, Alexandre H. | Ritti-Dias, Raphael M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) seems to modulate cardiac autonomic function and blood pressure (BP) at rest and during exercise. Therefore, it is possible that anodal tDCS could influence post-exercise hypotension. OBJECTIVE: To investigate whether anodal tDCS applied over the motor cortex would affect cardiac autonomic modulation and BP after resistance exercise. METHODS: Twelve apparently healthy young men performed two experimental sessions: anodal tDCS or sham condition followed by resistance exercise. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), rate-pressure product (RPP), and HR variability (HRV) were obtained before and during post-exercise recovery (at …20 and 60 minutes). RESULTS: Compared to pre-exercise, systolic BP decreased at 20 and at 60 minutes of post-exercise recovery only in anodal tDCS condition (p = 0.03), with no statistical differences in sham condition (p > 0.05). Diastolic and mean BP reduced after both anodal tDCS and sham conditions with no differences between them (P> 0.05). In comparison with anodal tDCS, there were slower HR recovery (tDCS vs. sham: -2 ± 14 vs. 14 ± 8 bpm) and higher RPP (tDCS vs. sham: -1083 ± 1846 vs. 1672 ± 1275 mmHg × bpm) after exercise following sham condition (P< 0.01). No differences were found in any of the HRV analyzed parameters (P> 0.05). CONCLUSION: A single session of primary motor cortex tDCS is capable of decreasing the systolic BP and HR responses, as well as the cardiac work after a resistance exercise session in young normotensive subjects regardless of any changes in cardiac autonomic modulation. Show more

Keywords: Post-exercise hypotension, tDCS, motor cortex, resistance exercise

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160653

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 113-120, 2017

Authors: Marcori, Alexandre J. | Moura, Túlio B.M.A. | Okazaki, Victor H.A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Varying exercise parameters, such as angles of movement, can cause different activation patterns within muscle compartments. Therefore, it is expected that feet positioning variations could influence gastrocnemius activity. OBJECTIVE: Compare gastrocnemius activation during plantar flexion with feet pointing forwards (FO), inwards (IN) and outwards (OU). METHODS: Sixteen physically active men (21 ± 2 years; 1.75 ± 0.06 meters and 74.8 ± 7.2 kg), performed 3 sets of 10 repetitions in each of the following experimental conditions: plantar flexion with feet pointing FO, IN and OU. The root …mean square (RMS) of the muscular activation of both gastrocnemius heads was analyzed in each set by electromyography. RESULTS: For the medial head of the gastrocnemius, the OU condition presented greater RMS values when compared to the IN (z = 3.41; p < 0.001) and FO (z = 2.37; p≤ 0.017) conditions. For the lateral head, however, the IN condition demonstrated greatest RMS when compared with OU (z = 3.20; p = 0.001) and FO (z = 3.25; p = 0.001) conditions. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that it is possible to create greater activation sites in the gastrocnemius. Trainers and practitioners could use this to prescribe exercise more efficiently, possibly correcting asymmetries in athletes, especially bodybuilders. Show more

Keywords: Heel raise, electromyography, biomechanical specificity

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160654

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 121-125, 2017

Authors: Wilson, Lynsey M. | Greig, Matt

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Prolonged exercise and joint position sense are considered aetiological risk factors for shoulder injury in overhead sports. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of a neoprene sleeve and kinesiology tape (KT) in mediating the effect of exercise on shoulder joint position sense. METHODS: 25 overhead sports participants (women - 10, men - 15) completed 30 maximal isokinetic repetitions at 120°/s of three shoulder exercise protocols: 9090 (seated 90° shoulder abduction, 90° elbow flexion), modified neutral (seated 45° shoulder abduction, 90° elbow flexion in the scapular plane) and diagonal (seated GHJ flexion, abduction, external …rotation and extension, adduction and internal rotation). Absolute error in active reproduction of passive positioning was assessed pre- and post-exercise at 10°/s. This was conducted for end range internal and external rotation, and mid-range. RESULTS: A repeated measures general linear model revealed no significant main effect for gender or exercise in any test position. A main effect for support condition was observed pre-exercise in the KT condition, with JPS significantly (p< 0.01) impaired (5.30 ± 2.16°) relative to baseline control scores (4.11 ± 2.81°) in end range external rotation at the 9090 position. CONCLUSION: Results indicated that neither neoprene nor kinesio-tape were more effective in limiting the effects of exercise on joint position sense (JPS). Healthy, un-injured overhead athletes may not need to consider taping or supportive device, indeed KT application was observed to impair JPS in specific movements. Show more

Keywords: Joint position sense, kinesiology tape, neoprene sleeve, exercise, shoulder

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160655

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 127-134, 2017

Authors: Sağiroğlu, İsa | Kurt, Cem | Pekünlü, Ekim | Özsu, İlbilge

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The self-myofascial technique is a new exercise modality that is thought to improve muscular performance and restore soft tissue. However, there are limited empirical data demonstrating the efficacy of this technique on athletic performance. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of self-myofascial-releasing exercises on the residual characteristics of the sit and reach (S&R) and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance in well-trained combat athletes. METHODS: Sixteen well-trained male combat athletes (age: 23.9 ± 3.6 years, mass: 78.78 ± 10.41 kg, combat experience: 12.87 ± 5.23 years) performed three exercise …sessions called ``aerobic running (AR)'', ``aerobic running combined with static stretching (AR + SS)'', and ``aerobic running combined with self-myofascial release (AR + SMR)'' at 48 hour intervals in a randomized crossover design. After each session, the subjects performed the S&R and CMJ tests successively with 30-s of rest between the tests at the 15th second and at the 2nd , 4th , 6th , 8th , 10th , 15th , and 30th minute during the recovery period. RESULTS: ANOVA and the post-hoc LSD (Least Significant Difference) test revealed that the AR + SMR treatment increased the flexibility greater than AR + SS (p= 0.029) at the 45th second. Additionally, the AR + SMR treatment resulted in less of a decrease in CMJ height compared to AR + SS at the 10th minute (p= 0.025). A larger decrease in the CMJ height was found after AR + SS compared to the AR and AR + SMR treatments at the 10th and 15th minute, respectively (p= 0.025 and p= 0.038). These results revealed that SMR had no advantage over AR and SS in terms of enhancing flexibility. A statistically insignificant inhibitory effect of SMR was detected on the CMJ performance. SS appeared to have an inhibitory effect on the CMJ performance for approximately 15 minutes. CONCLUSION: SMR may have a detrimental effect on CMJ performance. Trainers or athletes should consider using the SMR technique before training or competition to prevent possible power decrement. Show more

Keywords: Self-myofascial releasing exercises, foam roller, static stretching, combat athletes, muscular performance

DOI: 10.3233/IES-160656

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 135-141, 2017

Authors: Chang, Yi-Wen | Wu, Hong-Wen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cryotherapy is a common treatment in sports injury but its effect on proprioception and balance in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI) is yet unknown. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of cryotherapy on ankle proprioception and dynamic stance balance in the subjects with CAI. METHODS: Thirty-three subjects with CAI participated in this study. A cold pack was applied on anterior-lateral ankle area for 20 minutes. Proprioception and star excursion balance test were performed prior to cryotherapy, immediately after cryotherapy and 30-min after cryotherapy. A two-way ANOVA repeated measure was performed for statistical …analysis. RESULTS: The affected ankle showed a significantly greater proprioceptive error than the unaffected ankle (p < 0.05). Immediately after application of cryotherapy proved significantly detrimental to the reaching distance at either baseline or 30-min after (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In subjects with CAI cryotherapy may adversely affect dynamic stance balance particularly when the latter follows immediately the application of the former. Coaches and athletes should be aware of this phenomenon. Show more

Keywords: Star excursion balance test, joint repositioning sense, joint cooling

DOI: 10.3233/IES-170657

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 143-148, 2017

Authors: Ribeiro, Alex S. | Campos-Filho, Marçal G.A. | Avelar, Ademar | Santos, Leandro dos | Júnior, Abdallah Achour | Aguiar, Andreo F. | Fleck, Steven J. | Júnior, Hélio Serassuelo | Cyrino, Edilson S.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Flexibility is an important component of physical fitness. However, to date, there is no comparative study between men and women concerning the influence of resistance training (RT) on flexibility. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effect of RT on flexibility in young adult men and women. METHODS: Twenty-eight men and 30 women underwent progressive RT for 16 weeks, 3 times per week. Anthropometric and flexibility measurements were performed at pre-training, mid-training, and post-training. The flexibility measurements were obtained using a fleximeter. RESULTS: There was no significant sex by time interaction (P> …0.05) for any outcomes. Both sexes increased flexibility similarly from baseline to mid-training in shoulder extension (10.4-11.1%) and lateral trunk inclination (2.4-3.4%). Shoulder flexion increased at same magnitude in men and women from baseline to post-training (1.3-2.8%). Hip flexion and trunk flexion scores increased from baseline to mid-training (hip flexion = 3.7-3.9%, trunk flexion = 2.7%), however, a decrease was observed from mid- to post-training (hip flexion = -2.4 - -2.6%, trunk flexion = -1.4%) with values returning to baseline with no difference between men and women. CONCLUSIONS : The results suggest that regardless of sex, RT improves or at least preserves the flexibility of different joint movements in young adult men and women. Show more

Keywords: Strength training, physical fitness, range of motion, muscle mass

DOI: 10.3233/IES-170658

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 149-155, 2017

Authors: Cardin, Grace | Bohannon, Richard W.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to describe the reproducibility and validity of measurements of hip extension strength obtained by hand-held dynamometry from patients participating in inpatient rehabilitation. METHOD: Strength measurements were obtained bilaterally from 24 women and 42 men (33-92 years) patients on admission and again the following day. The patients' ability to independently stand from a 45 cm surface and to walk 30 meters was noted. RESULTS: The relative test-retest reproducibility of the measurements was supported by intraclass correlation coefficients of 0.703 to 0.835. However, absolute reliability as indicated by minimal detectable changes, …was not so good. Known-groups validity was evinced by greater hip extension strength among those able to independently complete a sit-to-stand and to walk 30 meters. CONCLUSION: Hip extension strength measurements obtained as described herein in an inpatient rehabilitation setting demonstrate good relative reproducibility and known groups validity. Show more

Keywords: Hip, muscle, strength, measurement

DOI: 10.3233/IES-182161

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 25, no. 2, pp. 157-160, 2017