Abstract
This study investigated the chronology of neural and morphological adaptations to
knee extensor eccentric training and their contribution to strength gains in isometric,
concentric and eccentric muscle actions. 20 male healthy subjects performed a 12-week
eccentric training program on an isokinetic dynamometer, and neuromuscular evaluations
of knee extensors were performed every 4 weeks. After 12 training weeks, significant
increases were observed for: isometric (24%), concentric (15%) and eccentric (29%)
torques; isometric (29%) and eccentric (33%) electromyographic activity; muscle thickness
(10%) and anatomical cross-sectional area (19%). Eccentric and isometric torques increased
progressively until the end of the program. Concentric torque and muscle mass parameters
increased until the eighth training week, but did not change from this point to the
twelfth training week. Eccentric and isometric activation increased at 4 and 8 training
weeks, respectively, while no change was found in concentric activation. These results
suggest that: 1) the relative increment in concentric strength was minor and does
not relate to neural effects; 2) eccentric and isometric strength gains up to 8 training
weeks are explained by the increased neural activation and muscle mass, whereas the
increments in the last 4 training weeks seem to be associated with other mechanisms.
Key words
resistance training - eccentric exercise - quadriceps femoris - isokinetic dynamometer
- electromyography - ultrasonography
