Concentric versus combined concentric-eccentric isokinetic training programs: effect on peak torque of human quadriceps femoris muscle

Abstract

To determine the effects of isokinetic resistance training of the quadriceps, 25 male volunteers were randomly assigned to five training groups: Concentric Slow (CS), Concentric Fast (CF), Concentric-Eccentric Slow (MS), Concentric-Eccentric Fast (MF), and Control (C). In training, subjects performed 20 contractions of each quadriceps using either 60 degrees/sec or 180 degrees/sec, for both sides, five days per week for 12 weeks. Testing consisted of measurement of peak torque, at intervals of 60 degrees/sec across a spectrum of velocities ranging from plus to minus 240 degrees/sec, at 0, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Repeated MANOVA using planned comparisons showed that all trained subjects made significant peak torque gains (p < .05), but that the gains made by MS and MF were greater. These findings suggest that the addition of an eccentric training component to a concentric isokinetic training program may allow greater peak torque gains regardless of the velocity.