Neuromuscular activation following anti-movement and dynamic core training: a randomized controlled comparative study

Area of Science:

• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanics
• Neuromuscular Training

Background:

• Investigated the impact of anti-movement and dynamic core training on neuromuscular activation.
• Utilized surface electromyography (sEMG) to measure muscle activation in trained men.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of anti-movement training versus traditional dynamic core training.
• To assess changes in trunk muscle activation and neuromuscular efficiency.

Main Methods:

• 36 participants were randomized into anti-movement (AMG), traditional dynamic (TDG), or control (CG) groups.
• Training involved 6 weeks of core exercises twice weekly, with standardized time under tension.
• sEMG measured anterior and posterior trunk muscle activation during isometric tests pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• Both AMG and TDG improved lumbar erector spinae (LES) and multifidus activation compared to CG.
• AMG showed significant enhancement in external oblique (EO) and internal oblique (IO) activation.
• AMG demonstrated greater reductions in muscle activation (22.17%-53%) than TDG (16.18%-28.82%), indicating improved neuromuscular efficiency.

Conclusions:

• Anti-movement core training effectively enhances trunk muscle neuromuscular activation and efficiency.
• This approach provides a robust alternative to traditional core training protocols.
• Results suggest superior neuromuscular adaptations with anti-movement strategies.