Influence of simultaneous bilateral exertion on muscle strength during voluntary submaximal isometric contraction

The influence of simultaneous bilateral exertion on muscle strength was tested under the conditions in which the same or different levels of strength were exerted by the right and left arm (or hand). Isometric muscle strength of elbow flexion, elbow extension and hand grip was studied. Subjects voluntarily exerted 25%, 50%, and 75% of maximal strength based on their subjective judgement without the feedback of the strength actually exerted. Involuntary decrements of muscle strength were caused by the bilateral exertion. Muscle strength of both sides decreased under the condition where the same level of strength was exerted by the right and the left arm (or hand). When different levels of strength were exerted by each arm (or hand), the strength of the weaker side considerably decreased, while the strength of the stronger side did not decrease.