Comparison among low intensity bridge exercises using suspension devices based on muscle activity and subjective...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics and Exercise Physiology
• Neuromuscular Activation Studies
• Rehabilitation and Training

Background:

• Suspension devices offer advantages for low-intensity exercises.
• Limited research directly compares variations in bridge exercises using suspension devices regarding muscle activity and perceived difficulty.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how different bridge exercise variations impact trunk muscle activity.
• To determine if suspension point height influences muscle activation and subjective difficulty during bridge exercises.

Main Methods:

• Nineteen healthy males performed supine bridge (SB), lateral bridge (LB), and forward leaning (FL) exercises.
• Exercises were conducted at 15 and 30-degree angles using suspension devices, totaling six conditions.
• Surface electromyography and subjective difficulty ratings were collected.

Main Results:

• Lateral bridge (LB) and forward leaning (FL) showed higher rectus abdominis activity than supine bridge (SB).
• Supine bridge (SB) and lateral bridge (LB) exhibited greater erector spinae activity compared to forward leaning (FL).
• Lateral bridge (LB) significantly increased internal oblique muscle activity; higher inclination (30 degrees) elevated internal oblique activity and subjective difficulty.

Conclusions:

• Bridge exercise variations selectively target different trunk muscles.
• Lateral bridge (LB) and supine bridge (SB) are effective for activating the internal oblique and erector spinae muscles.
• Forward leaning (FL) exercise may reduce erector spinae activation while emphasizing abdominal muscle engagement.