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Method to Measure Tone of Axial and Proximal Muscle
Published on: December 14, 2011
Muscle activation comparisons between elastic and isoinertial resistance: A meta-analysis
Saied Jalal Aboodarda1, Phillip A Page2, David George Behm3
1School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada; Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
Elastic resistance and isoinertial resistance exercises show comparable muscle activation. This meta-analysis found no significant differences in prime mover, antagonist, synergist, or stabilizer muscle activity between the two training modes.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Sports Science
Background:
- Elastic resistance is widely used in fitness and therapy.
- Concerns exist regarding its ability to effectively overload muscles due to linear resistance increase.
- This study compares muscle activation between elastic and isoinertial resistance exercises.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis on muscle activation during elastic and isoinertial resistance exercises.
- To quantitatively compare the muscle activation levels between these two training modalities.
Main Methods:
- A random-effects model was employed.
- Hedge's g effect size was calculated to determine the standardized mean difference.
- Muscle activation of prime movers, antagonists, assistant movers, and stabilizers was analyzed.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in muscle activation were found for prime movers (ES=-0.037, p=0.660).
- Antagonists (ES=0.089, p=0.385), synergists (ES=-0.133, p=0.213), and stabilizers (ES=0.142, p=0.060) also showed no significant differences.
- Electromyography data revealed comparable muscle activity between elastic and isoinertial resistance exercises.
Conclusions:
- Elastic resistance elicits similar muscle activation as isoinertial resistance, challenging previous criticisms.
- Comparable muscle adaptations can be expected from both training modes if external resistance is equal.
- This suggests elastic resistance is a viable alternative for achieving muscle strength development.
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