The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a 4-week electromyostimulation training program on the strength of the knee extensors and the vertical jump performance of 10 basketball players. Electromyostimulation sessions were carried out 3 times weekly; each session consisted of 48 contractions. Testing was carried out before and after the electromyostimulation training program (week 4) and once more after 4 weeks of normal basketball training (week 8). At week 4, isokinetic strength increased significantly (p < 0.05) at eccentric and high concentric velocities (between 180 and 360 ° × s-1); this was not the case for low concentric velocities (60 and 120 ° × s-1). Electromyostimulation training increased also isometric strength at the two angles adjacent to the training angle (p < 0.01). Squat jump increased significantly by 14 % at week 4 (p < 0.01), whereas counter movement jump showed no change. At week 8, gains in isokinetic, isometric strength and squat jump performance were maintained and the counter movement jump performance increased significantly by 17 % (p < 0.01). Electromyostimulation as part of a short strength-training program enhanced knee extensor strength and squat jump performance of basketball players.
Isokinetic dynamometer, isometric strength, knee extensors, strength training, squat jump, counter movement jump.
