MUSCLE STRENGTH AND POWER CHANGES DURING MAXIMAL ISOKINETIC TRAINING

Abstract

The effects of short duration, high intensity training on skeletal muscle were investigated. The extensors and flexors of the knee were tested and exercised by means of an isokinetic dynamometer. Measurements of peak torque were obtained at velocities ranging from 0.degree./s (isometric) to 300.degree./s through a distance of 90.degree.. Total work output was measured during repeated knee extensions and flexions for work tasks of 6 s and 30 s duration. A l min test of repeated maximal contractions was administered to examine muscular fatigue before and after training. The subjects trained 1 leg with repeated 6 s exercise bouts, while the other leg was trained using repeated 30 s bouts. All training and testing was executed at near maximal force and at a constant velocity (180.degree./s). The subjects trained 4 .times. wk for 7 wk. The daily work output was equal for the 6 and 30 s training legs. Results indicate that isokinetic training programs of 6 and 30 s duration can significantly (P < .05) increase peak muscular torque; training velocity may be an important consideration in improving peak torque; total work output was increased an average of 30% with either training at relatively slow (60/s) or fast (180.degree./s) velocities; both training programs significantly reduced the fatiguability of the knee extensor muscles.