Neuromuscular control and performance in shot-put athletes

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Human Movement Analysis

Background:

• Shot-put performance in skilled athletes is influenced by complex biomechanical factors.
• Understanding the role of specific muscle activation patterns during the shot-put is essential for optimizing training and technique.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between the activation levels of key upper and lower body muscles during the shot-put and overall performance in skilled athletes.

Main Methods:

• Eight experienced shot-putters performed the linear technique shot-put and 1RM squat/bench-press tests.
• Electromyographic (EMG) signals were recorded from the quadriceps vastus lateralis (VL), gastrocnemius internus, pectoralis major (PEC), and triceps brachii (TRI).
• EMG levels during shot-put were normalized relative to maximum voluntary contractions.

Main Results:

• Shot-put performance significantly correlated with 1RM squat (r=0.76) and bench-press (r=0.75) strength.
• High average EMG from VL (r=0.91) and PEC (r=0.75) during the power position strongly correlated with performance.
• A negative correlation (r=-0.70) was found between performance and the time to peak TRI activation during the throwing arm strike.

Conclusions:

• Absolute muscle strength is important, but high activation of VL and PEC during delivery is a key performance parameter.
• Rapid activation of the triceps brachii (TRI) is essential for effective contribution to shot-put performance.