Isokinetics and Exercise Science - Volume 32, issue 3

Authors: dos Reis, Alex Lopes | de Oliveira, Laís Campos | de Souza, Amanda Yasmin Vieira | Stabelini Neto, Antonio | de Oliveira, Raphael Gonçalves

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The acute and chronic effects of stretching preceding exercises on strength, power and muscular endurance are still not entirely clear in the literature. OBJECTIVE: To verify the acute and chronic effects of the main types of stretching (static, dynamic, PNF, and ballistic) on muscle strength, power, and endurance. METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in: PubMed, Web of Science, LILACS, Scopus, Science Direct, and CENTRAL. The methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro scale. Meta-analysis were performed using the standardized mean difference (SMD). RESULTS: 43 studies were included in …the systematic review and 30 in the meta-analysis calculations. Only two studies showed high methodological quality. In general, static stretching had an impact on the potentiated the gain in muscle strength of the lower limbs in the long term (0.60 [0.20–1.00]). The acute (ES = 0.38 [0.05–0.70]) and long-term (ES = 1.04 [0.21–1.88]) dynamic stretching was able to potentiate the gain of muscle power in the lower limbs, while the acute PNF had an impact on the worsening of the muscular endurance (ES = 1.68 [0.83–2.53]). CONCLUSIONS: When the training objective is linked to acute effects, dynamic stretching should be prioritized before the main activity. For long-term effects, static and dynamic stretching have been shown to potentiate muscle strength and power gain, respectively, and are recommended in these cases. Show more

Keywords: Young adults, performance, warm-up, meta-analysis

DOI: 10.3233/IES-220120

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 181-197, 2024

Authors: Aedo-Muñoz, Esteban | Brito, Ciro José | Muñoz, Pablo Merino | Nóbrega, Otávio de Toledo | Miarka, Bianca | Valenzuela, Matias Gonzalez | Arriagada-Tarifeño, David

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Long-time judo training can lead athletes to develop upper limb asymmetry and shoulder asymmetry during force production, mainly in the action of pulling, pushing, and throwing; that requires higher strength and velocity of the internal and external rotators of the shoulders, which may also result in shoulder injury, or a decrease in judo performance. OBJECTIVE: To investigate asymmetries in concentric force of the internal and external shoulder rotators of the dominant and non-dominant upper limbs in high-level judokas at angular velocities of 60, 180, and 300∘ /s. METHODS: 14 highly trained male …judokas (age 24.4 ± 4.8 yrs.; body mass 87.9 ± 18.7 kg; height 1.8 ± 0.1 m). All participants performed 5 attempts of movement concentric internal and external rotation of the shoulder with 3 angular velocities (60∘ /s, 180∘ /s, and 300∘ /s) in an isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex® Humac Norm Dynamometer CSMI, model 502140). The data were analyzed by independent t-student (discrete analysis) a statistical parametric mapping (SPM) curve (one-dimensional analysis). RESULTS: There was no difference in dominant vs. non-dominant for discrete analysis (p > 0.05). There was no difference in dominant vs. non-dominant for SPM analysis. None of the comparisons surpassed the comparison cut-off (tcrit ) for the t -test (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Based on results, judokas do not present significant asymmetries in concentric force of external or internal shoulder rotators when compared to the dominant vs. the non-dominant upper limb according to discrete and one-dimensional (SPM) analysis. Show more

Keywords: Martial arts, biomechanics, athletic performance, task performance and analysis, statistical parametric mapping

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230073

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 199-208, 2024

Authors: Chen, Yonghui | Feng, Xinmiao | Huang, Lanmin | Mi, Jing

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Endurance training can have a negative impact on strength training and may lead to reduced strength gains, known as the interference effect. However, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) as an endurance training mode may reduce this interference effect. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to investigate the effects of concurrent HIIT and resistance training (RT) on lower body explosive strength and maximum strength. METHODS: Five electronic databases were searched. Subgroup analyses were performed to assess the effects of HIIT modality, training status, and training duration on strength development following concurrent HIIT and …RT. RESULTS: Meta-analysis showed that compared to RT alone, concurrent HIIT and RT will not affect the development of countermovement jump (CMJ) (WMD = - 0.17, 95%CI = - 1.45 to - 1.11) and half squat (WMD = - 0.05, 95%CI = - 2.42 to 2.32). Further, subgroup analysis revealed that HIIT-running workout was conducive to the development of both CMJ and half squat. Longer training duration was found to be more effective in developing CMJ, while shorter training duration was more suitable for developing half squat. Additionally, athletes showed greater improvement than non-athletes. CONCLUSIONS: Combining HIIT and RT can enhance CMJ and half squat. The results of intervention are moderated by training variables and training status. Show more

Keywords: Concurrent training, HIIT, strength training, incompatibility

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230082

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 209-223, 2024

Authors: Takındı, Ecem Nur | Çil, Elif Tuğçe

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chronic ankle instability (CAI) presents neuromuscular control and functional performance difficulties. Although ankle-focused rehabilitation is widely practised, the relative effects of exercises targeting thoracic mobility and lumbopelvic stabilization in addressing CAI have not been thoroughly investigated. OBJECTIVE: The study aims to compare the effects of thoracic mobility and lumbopelvic stabilization exercises in patients with CAI. METHODS: The study was designed as a prospective randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 30 participants (mean age = 31.93 ± 7.31; 21F/9M) who scored 27 points or on the …Cumberland ankle instability tool voluntarily were enrolled in the study. The participants were randomly divided into two groups. In addition to the rehabilitation protocols, each participant was given a home exercise program, including ankle-strengthening exercises (3 times a week). The first group trained with thoracic mobility (TM), while the second group did lumbopelvic stabilization (LS) exercises under supervision twice a week for eight weeks. Participants’ pre and post-treatment assessments spanned an 8-week rehabilitation period, during which ankle and hip joint range of motion measurements were obtained using an electronic goniometer. Additionally, dynamic balance was assessed through the Y balance test, while ankle proprioception was evaluated using joint position sense measurements. The flexibility was assessed with an active straight leg raise test. RESULTS: Y balance, CAIT, and active straight leg raise test scores were improved in the eighth week in the thoracic mobility group (p < 0.05), while only active straight leg raise test and CAIT scores were significantly different in the lumbopelvic stabilization group (p < 0.05) according to intra group variables. In comparing the post-treatment scores between the groups, the thoracic mobility group had superior results in the joint position sense test for the right side of the hip and plantarflexion. (hip; TM: 70.71 ± 6.80, LS: 68.76 ± 5.50, plantarflexion; TM: 44.24 ± 7.28, LS: 38.30 ± 5.08). CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that while both interventions are effective in addressing various aspects of ankle instability, the thoracic mobility exercises may offer additional benefits, particularly in enhancing joint position sense, thereby providing valuable insights for the optimization of rehabilitation protocols for individuals with chronic ankle instability. Show more

Keywords: Balance, chronic ankle instability, flexibility, lumbopelvic stabilization, thoracic mobility, proprioception

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230093

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 225-238, 2024

Authors: Tanino, Yoshitsugu | Yamazaki, Wataru | Fukumoto, Yuki | Yoshida, Takaki | Nakao, Tetsuya | Suzuki, Toshiaki

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A potential relationship may exist between the vastus medialis (VM) and the contractile efficiency of the vastus intermedius (VI) due to their anatomical connection and common innervation by the same branches of the femoral nerve. However, this relationship has not been explored using physiological experiments. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to use electromyography (EMG) to investigate the functional significance of the VI and VM muscles during isometric contraction. METHODS: Twenty-six healthy male volunteers underwent EMG recordings from the VI, VM, and vastus lateralis (VL) at 90∘ or 30∘ of knee flexion. …The EMG pre-motor time (PMT) was measured during rapid knee extension in response to an auditory stimulus. Additionally, the M-wave latency was determined by femoral nerve stimulation and subtracted from the PMT to calculate the descending conduction time (DCT). RESULTS: DCT was shortest at VM, followed by VL and VI. The DCT difference of VI-VM was significantly greater than that of VI-VL during maximal effort at 90∘ of knee flexion. CONCLUSIONS: VM is neurally driven to act as a pre-activator that primes the VI muscle; this tendency is particularly pronounced when explosive high-moment knee extension is required. Show more

Keywords: Vastus medialis, vastus intermedius, descending conduction time, pre-motor time, pre-activation

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230098

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 239-250, 2024

Authors: Song, Yan | Zhang, Xuanrui | Lu, Jianxia

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Low muscle quantity commonly seen in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) is the key contributor of declined physical performance and increases the risk of morbidity and mortality. However, how to normalize muscle mass for operational criteria in this population remains unknown. OBJECTIVE: To identify the clinically useful whole body lean tissue mass (LTM) and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) indices pertinent to physical performance in patients undertaking HD. METHODS: Whole body LTM in 38 and ASM in 22 patients undergoing HD were measured by body composition monitor (BCM) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), …respectively. Physical performance was assessed by handgrip strength, the incremental shuttle walk test, sit-to-stand tests, gait speed, Short Physical Performance Battery and Duke Activity Status Index. Besides crude LTM and ASM, the other muscle indices were utilized normalizing for height, height squared, weight, body mass index (BMI), fat mass and body fat%. RESULTS: Regardless of BCM or DXA being used, the relationships between different muscle mass indices and physical function were not consistent. While the most useful LTM index which was strongly associated with physical function involved adjustment for height, the strongest (and most useful) ASM index was normalization for BMI. CONCLUSION: The superiority of adjustment for BMI or height (height2 ) recommended by international sarcopenia consensus is also suitable for patients undergoing HD. Patients’ BMI or fat mass should be considered in estimating prevalence of sarcopenia and evaluating relationship between muscle mass and physical performance. Show more

Keywords: Sarcopenia, skeletal muscle mass, haemodialysis, physical functional performance, muscle strength

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230142

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 251-263, 2024

Authors: Kim, Tae-Gyu | Kim, Jun-Seok | Zhang, Haimin | Kim, Soo-Yong

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: People with forward head posture (FHP) and rounded shoulder posture (RSP) may experience shifts in scapular position and alterations in the strength of the muscles surrounding the scapula. Therefore, a reliable scapula position and scapula muscle strength test are required to identified scapula problem and provided appropriate intervention programs. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the reliability of scapular position measurements obtained using a modified digital inclinometer and palpation meter, as well as muscle strength using a hand-held dynamometer (HHD) in individuals with FHP and RSP. METHODS: Thirty healthy subjects underwent scapular …position tests (upward rotation, anterior tilt, depression, and protraction) and strength tests of periscapular muscles (serratus anterior, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, and lower trapezius) on both the dominant and non-dominant sides. The reliability of the measurements was confirmed by computing the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Test and re-tests were conducted over a period of one week and actual values for each measurement were also obtained and assessed. RESULTS: The ICC ranged from 0.802 to 0.935 for the scapular position tests and from 0.808 to 0.949 for muscle strength tests on the dominant and non-dominant sides. For scapular position tests, SEM values ranged from 0.3 cm to 0.6 cm (protraction and depression), from 1.0∘ to 1.7∘ (upward rotation and anterior tilt) and MCID values ranged from 0.7 cm to 1.6 cm (protraction and depression), from 2.8∘ to 4.7∘ (upward rotation and anterior tilt). Regarding muscle strength tests, SEM and MCID values were in the range 14.4N–27.3N and 39.9N–75.7N, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Scapular position and periscapular muscle strength can be reproducibly measured in healthy subjects individuals with FHP and RSP. These instruments can hence be recommended for evaluating these functional traits in subjects with FHP and RSP. Show more

Keywords: Forward head posture, rounded shoulder posture, scapula position, scapula muscle strength test

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230161

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 265-272, 2024

Authors: Aljohani, Marwan M.A. | Abdel-azeim, Amr Almaz | Alshehri, Yasir S. | Aboonq, Moutasem Salih | Aljohani, Raghad Khalid | Khaled, Osama Ahmed

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cryotherapy is widely utilized for therapeutic purposes, yet its specific effects on knee joint proprioception and quadriceps muscle performance in healthy individuals remain unclear. This study addresses this gap by examining the impact of a 20-minute cryotherapy session on knee joint proprioception and related muscle parameters in a cohort of healthy college students. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of cryotherapy on knee joint proprioception and quadriceps muscle peak moment, work and power in healthy college male and female students. METHODS: Thirty-two healthy students, aged 19–23, underwent a 20-minute cryotherapy session using Cryogel …packs applied to the anterior thigh and knee. An isokinetic dynamometer measured knee joint proprioception and quadriceps muscle parameters before, immediately after, 10-min, and 20-min post-cryotherapy. RESULTS: Proprioception values did not significantly differ between genders or post-tests (p > 0.05). However, the female group exhibited significantly lower moment, power, and work values compared to males (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed within or between post-tests in moment, power, and work for both genders (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: A 20-minute cryotherapy application demonstrated no adverse effects on knee joint proprioception or quadriceps muscle metrics in healthy college students, supporting the safety of cryotherapy in this context. Show more

Keywords: Cryotherapy, isokinetics, knee joint, muscle strength, proprioception

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230165

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 273-280, 2024

Authors: Hwang, Byeong-Hun | Jeon, In-Cheol

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lower trapezius (LT) plays an important role in maintaining the stability of the scapula. Sufficient activation of LT can reduce the risk of rotator cuff tear and shoulder impingement syndrome. The Y-raise exercise has been recommended for effective LT activation. However, the upper trapezius (UT) can be co-activated during universal Y-raise exercise. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to compare the activity of the UT, LT, and serratus anterior (SA) during Y-raise exercise with and without isometric adduction (IAD) using Thera-Band. METHODS: 21 healthy males voluntarily participated in the study. The participants were asked …to perform Y-raise exercise with and without IAD using Thera-Band. Surface electromyography was used to measure the muscle activity of UT, LT, and SA during Y-raise exercise with and without IAD. Paired t-test was used to analyze the significance of the muscle activity of UT, LT, and SA as well as the activity ratio of LT/UT and LT/SA. The significance level was set at α = 0.05. RESULTS: Compared with Y-raise exercise without IAD, the muscle activity of UT and SA decreased (p = 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively), whereas that of LT increased (p = 0.038) during Y-raise exercise with IAD. Additionally, the activity ratio of LT/UT and LT/SA was greater during Y-raise exercise with IAD (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Y-raise exercise with IAD using Thera-Band is recommended as an efficient exercise to selectively activate the LT and increase the activity ratio of LT/UT and LT/SA. Show more

Keywords: Lower trapezius, reciprocal inhibition, upper trapezius, Y-raise exercise

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230166

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 281-289, 2024

Authors: Enoki, Shota | Hakozaki, Taisei | Shimizu, Takuya

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Core stability has been reported to be important for improving performance in athletes. However, the variety of measures used to assess core stability has made it difficult to compare results across studies. In addition, there is a lack of consensus on precise definitions of core and core stability, which is a barrier to research in this field. OBJECTIVE: The overall purpose of this review was to summarize the definitions of core and core stability and measurements of core stability used in previous studies on athletes. METHODS: We searched four electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, …SPORTDiscus, Web of Science and Science Direct) from their inception to October 2023. Studies evaluating core stability in athletes across all sports were included. We excluded case studies and case series, opinion pieces, letters to editors and studies not written in the English language. Two researchers independently assessed articles for inclusion and exclusion criteria and methodological quality. RESULTS: One hundred thirty-four studies were included, of which two were of high quality. The definitions of core and core stability varied widely, and ‘core’ was not defined in 108 studies and ‘core stability’ was not defined in 105 studies. The most used test protocol was the McGill test, which was used in 19 studies. CONCLUSIONS: There are multiple tests to measure core stability, and there is some confusion as to whether the measurement results represent core strength or core endurance. Future research papers should clarify the definitions of core and core stability, and consider core strength and core endurance separately. Show more

Keywords: Trunk stability, trunk strength, trunk endurance

DOI: 10.3233/IES-230177

Citation: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 32, no. 3, pp. 291-300, 2024