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Updated: Jun 11, 2026
10:41
Method to Measure Tone of Axial and Proximal Muscle
Published on: December 14, 2011
Quantification of rubber and chain-based resistance modes.
D Travis McMaster1, John Cronin, Michael R McGuigan
1School of Exercise, Biomedical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia. t.mcmaster@ecu.edu.au
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research
|July 9, 2010
Summary
Rubber-based resistance (RBR) bands show nonlinear tension changes with stretch, while steel link (SLS) chains have linear mass increases. Understanding these variable resistance properties is key for accurate strength training prescription.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Rubber-based resistance (RBR) bands and standard link steel (SLS) chains are widely used in strength and conditioning and rehabilitation.
- Variable resistance training offers unique benefits but requires precise quantification for effective programming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively analyze the tension-deformation relationship of RBR bands and the mass-displacement relationship of SLS chains.
- To establish a reliable methodology for measuring and comparing variable resistance training tools.
Main Methods:
- Five sets of RBR bands (varying widths) and five sets of SLS chains (varying diameters) were tested.
- Tension and mass were measured across incremental displacements using a load cell and a force plate.
- Data were analyzed using polynomial functions to model the resistance characteristics.
Main Results:
- RBR bands demonstrated curvilinear tension-deformation relationships, accurately modeled by second-order polynomial functions (R ≥ 0.99).
- SLS chains exhibited linear mass-displacement relationships, perfectly modeled by first-order polynomial functions (R = 1).
- No significant force output differences were found between load cell and force plate measurements, validating strain gauges as a viable quantification method.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a validated methodology for quantifying the variable resistance of both RBR bands and SLS chains.
- Practitioners should be aware of inherent resting length variations in RBR bands, leading to significant tension imbalances (8-19%) within the same band type.
- This quantification is crucial for precise loading intensity prescription in strength and conditioning and rehabilitation settings.
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