Isokinetic torque levels for high school football players

One hundred fifteen high school football players were screened isokinetically for the knee extensor and flexor torque generating capabilities and muscle imbalances. Each player was tested on a Cybex II at speeds of 30 degrees/sec and 180 degrees/sec. The subjects were stratified by age (15, 16, 17) and by position (linemen vs receivers and backs). Significant (p less than 0.05) torque differences were observed at both the slow and fast speeds for the knee extensors and flexors across the 3 age groups. However, the flexion to extension ratios did not differ significantly. On the other hand, when considering the positions, flexor torque and flexion to extension ratio at the slow speed were greater (p less than 0.05) for the linemen than the receivers and backs. Partial correlation analyses showed that body weight had the greatest effect on the knee torque values. It was concluded that basic torque measures differed with age and by position in the sport of football. Also, speed of movement altered the force generating capabilities of the muscle and resultant ratios.