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Paired personal interaction reveals objective differences between pushing and holding isometric muscle action
Laura V Schaefer1, Frank N Bittmann1
1Division Regulative Physiology and Prevention, Department Sports and Health Sciences, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.
Plos One
|May 6, 2021
Summary
This study differentiates holding isometric muscle action (HIMA) from pushing isometric muscle action (PIMA) using objective measurements. Findings suggest distinct neural control mechanisms for each type of isometric contraction.
Area of Science:
- Sports and movement sciences
- Biomechanics
- Exercise physiology
Background:
- Isometric muscle function is typically assessed via pushing against resistance.
- Subjective experience suggests holding and pushing isometric actions may differ.
- Objective parameters are needed to distinguish these isometric muscle actions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if holding isometric muscle action (HIMA) and pushing isometric muscle action (PIMA) can be objectively distinguished.
- To identify objective parameters differentiating these two forms of isometric muscle actions.
Main Methods:
- 20 subjects in same-sex pairs performed HIMA and PIMA tasks.
- Muscle oscillations (MMGtri, MTGtri, MMGobl) were recorded using piezoelectric sensors.
- Parameters analyzed included frequency, amplitude, power spectrum, and task failure rates.
Main Results:
- Holding isometric muscle action (HIMA) resulted in significantly higher amplitude variation and power-frequency ratio in abdominal muscles (MMGobl).
- Pushing isometric muscle action (PIMA) showed higher power in the 8-15 Hz range for abdominal muscles.
- A high failure rate (85%) was observed during HIMA trials, indicating task difficulty.
Conclusions:
- Objective parameters can distinguish between holding and pushing isometric muscle actions.
- Holding isometric muscle action (HIMA) appears to involve more complex neural control compared to PIMA.
- Further research is warranted to explore the nuances of neural control in different isometric contractions.
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