Affiliations: [a] Physical Therapy Department, University of Haifa,
Haifa, Israel | [b] Ribstein Center for Sports Medicine and Research,
Wingate Institute, Netanya, Israel | [c] Zinman College of Physical Education {and} Sport
Sciences, Wingate Institute, Netanya, Israel
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Specificity plays an important role in the design of
strength training protocols. One of the paramount factors is the range of motion (ROM). OBJECTIVE: To explore limited range of motion (ROM) strength
training using a closed chain upper extremity push pull motion. Range specific
effects and transferability (strength gains outside the trained ROM) were investigated. METHOD: 45 healthy women (18–50 ± 4.2) randomly
assigned to one of three groups: Full ROM group, Limited ROM group, Control
group. Training and testing were conducted using a closed chain attachment of
an isokinetic dynamometer, at a constant linear velocity of 12.22 cm/s
(corresponding to the dynamometer angular velocity of 60°/sec) and a second
condition of 36.67 cm/s (corresponding to the dynamometer angular velocity of
180°/sec). Training lasted 6 weeks X 2 days per week, through either full
or limited ROM, representing a middle segment of the linear displacement of the
handle through the full ROM. Peak force and work data were evaluated. RESULTS: Significant gains in peak force and work values at full ROM
and all sub ranges were noted for both training groups. Transferability of
strength was demonstrated for limited ROM training, whereas specificity could
be demonstrated only under the condition of range X velocity interaction. CONCLUSION: Our findings support the use of limited ROM training in
the upper extremity and are in agreement with previous data regarding the knee
extensors. Limited ROM training may be used early on in upper extremity
rehabilitation. Particularly, the suggested protocol may be safely applied to
scapular rehabilitation.
Keywords: Muscle strength, range of motion, specificity of training
