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European Journal of Applied Physiology

Published in:

01-05-2016 | Original Article

Neural adaptations to submaximal isokinetic eccentric strength training

Authors: Simon Barrué-Belou, David Amarantini, Philippe Marque, Julien Duclay

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 5/2016

Abstract

Purpose

This study investigated the neural adaptations following submaximal isokinetic eccentric strength training of the plantar flexors. The modulation of electromyographic (EMG) activity and spinal excitability were compared in the soleus muscle (SOL) during isometric, concentric and eccentric maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) before and after submaximal isokinetic eccentric training.

Methods

Eighteen healthy subjects were divided into a training group (n = 8) and a control group (n = 10). The training protocol consisted of sixteen sessions of isokinetic eccentric strength training during 8 weeks. Normalized EMG was used to assess the activity of SOL and medial gastrocnemius muscle (MG). For SOL, maximal Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex) and compound motor potential were evoked during isometric, concentric and eccentric actions at rest (H_max and M_max, respectively) and during MVC (H_sup and M_sup, respectively).

Results

The results showed that the torque and normalized EMG of SOL significantly increased after training during eccentric (+20.5 and +28.8 %, respectively) and isometric (+18.2 and +23.0 %, respectively) MVC (p < 0.05). H_max/M_max and H_sup/M_sup ratios were not significantly modified after training for SOL (p > 0.05), and remained significantly depressed during eccentric compared to isometric and concentric actions (p < 0.05). In contrast, no significant difference was observed on normalized EMG of MG (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

These results suggested that the increase in voluntary torque after submaximal isokinetic eccentric training can be at least partly ascribed to enhanced neural drive for SOL that does not affect the H-reflex pathway.

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Title: Neural adaptations to submaximal isokinetic eccentric strength training
Authors: Simon Barrué-Belou
David Amarantini
Philippe Marque
Julien Duclay
Publication date: 01-05-2016
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 5/2016
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-016-3367-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Neural adaptations to submaximal isokinetic eccentric strength training

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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