Isokinetic Torque Outputs of Professional and Elite Amateur Ice Hockey Players

Abstract

Instrumentation advances have recently allowed the isokinetic evaluation of muscle function for purposes of injury diagnosis, rehabilitation, and training prescription. This type of evaluation has been particularly useful for athletes in preparing for performance or returning to training following injury. lsokinetic testing of specific muscle groups and at the approximate limb speeds required for performance of the sport has allowed more specific analysis of the functional strengths and weaknesses of athletes. Isokinetic testing allows comparison of agonist and antagonist muscle groups for balance across a joint, for right and left side muscle group comparison, and for joint angle at peak torque. Several athletic groups have already been characterized; alpine skiing, track and field (sprinting, jumping, and walking), and orienteering. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the function of important muscle groups for the performance of ice hockey. The data provided the basis for devising a training program for the athletes and also provided data for the characterization of professional (NHL) and elite amateur (Olympic) ice hockey players. Analysis also provided comparative information about the two groups.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1981;3(2):42-47.