Affiliations: [a] Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Lee N. Burkett, Department of ESPE,
Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA. Tel.: +1 602 965-7716; E-mail:
lee.burkett@asu.edu
Abstract: Since the early 1960's interest has risen for using electrical
stimulation (ES) as a supplement to voluntary effort in strength training
programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of ES
combined with simultaneous maximum dynamic contraction. An experimental,
randomized control group was used. The independent variables were three methods
of training, (a) isotonic weight training, (b) isokinetic resistance, and (c)
isokinetic with ES. The dependent variables measured were, (a) peak torque at
36^0 sec, (b) height in the vertical jump, and (c) time in the 50-yard sprint.
Results were analyzed using a 3 times 6 split-plot design. No significant
differences were found among groups for the design (F_{2,12} = 1.045, P
0.3816). It was concluded that in groups of healthy individuals, ES combined
with dynamic contraction in a training program does not develop strength and/or
functional capacity more effectively than isokinetic or isotonic contractions
without ES.
