Note: [] Address for correspondence: M. Lamotte, Cardiology Department,
1^E, Erasme Hospital, Free University of Brussel, 808 Lennik road, 1070
Brussels, Belgium. Tel.: +32 2 5555146; Fax: +32 2 5554609; E-mail:
mlamotte@ulb.ac.be
Abstract: Background: Isokinetic evaluation and training are commonly used.
Hemodynamic response during this type of exercise is unknown and therefore
usually not recommended in some patients (elderly, patients with risk factors
or with cardio-vascular disease). The aim of this study was to evaluate the
hemodynamic response during a classical testing and training isokinetic
session. Method: 20 healthy young male participated to this study. The
hemodynamic response wa continuously and non invasively (Task Force Monitor)
measured on a Cybex Norm (knee extension and flexion). The hemodynamic
parameters were systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate (HR) and cardiac
output (Q). Results: A low speed (60°/s) test was more exhausting
than one at higher speed (180°/s) which is probably related to its
duration. Whereas rest periods seemed sufficient for muscle recovery allowing
during training, maintenance of performance over the different sets, changes in
hemodynamic parameters (HR, SBP & Q) were observed over successive sets
and did not recover totally during rest. Systolic ejection volume did neither
change nor contribute to the increase of cardiac output (+ 70 to 84%
compared to rest). Values measured during test and training were high but not
excessive (HR max=135 ± 20 bpm or 70% of HRmax predicted; SBP max
=185 ± 26 mmHg; Q=11.2 ± 2.2 l/min). Conclusions: Values
measured during test and training are high but not excessive. Isokinetic
training in cardio-vascular risk patients should be composed of shorter set
duration and longer rest periods as generally applied, without loosing maximal
muscle contraction over the entire rage of motion.
