Comparing isometric and isokinetic peak strength values using slow speeds on a Cybex 340 isokinetic dynamometer machine

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Burkett, Lee N.^a | Alvar, Brent^b | Irvin, Jim^c

Affiliations: [a] Dept. of ESPE, Arizona State University, P.O. Box 870701, Tempe, AZ 85287-0701, USA. Fax: +1 480 965 2569; E-mail: [email protected] | [b] Chandler-Gilbert Community College | [c] Desert Samaritan Medical Center

Abstract: The purpose of this research was to compare isometric values (0^{\circ}s^{-1}) with isokinetic values generated at slow speeds (12^{\circ}s^{-1}, 30^{\circ}s^{-1} and 60^{\circ}s^{-1}) based on measurement of 40 college males. A one-way ANOVA indicated a significant difference with respect to speeds (F_{3,148} = 13.10, p<0.01). A post hoc analysis showed that all speeds were significantly different from each other. The greatest average maximal hamstring strength values were produced with isometric (0^{\circ}s^{-1}) contractions and the least average maximal hamstring strength at 60^{\circ}s^{-1}. It is suggested that if a true absolute maximal hamstring strength test is desired for the hamstring musculature one should use a speed of 0^{\circ}s^{-1}. Regression analysis indicated that a speed of 12^{\circ}s^{-1} produced the best regression equation. It is suggested that, the term peak strength rather than maximum strength should be used for speeds greater than 0^{\circ}s^{-1}.

DOI: 10.3233/IES-2000-0054

Journal: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 8, no. 4, pp. 213-215, 2000