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Int J Sports Med 1984; 05(1): 43-46
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1025879
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Influence of Training on the Force-Velocity Relationship of the Arm Flexors of Active Sportsmen

F. L. de Koning, J. A. Vos, R. A. Binkhorst, A. C. A. Vissers
  • Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nijmegen, Geert Grooteplein Noord 21a, 6525 EZ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Publication Date:
14 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of specific types of muscle training, performed by previously well-trained competitive athletes, on the force-velocity relationship of the arm flexors.

Four rowers, five athletes competing in tug-of-war, and six middle- and long-distance runners were measured at different stages of their training program during the period of 1 training year. The runners performed no special arm training and were included for comparative purposes. A record was made of the type and intensity of training. The force-velocity curve (FVC) was established by measuring the torques (M) and corresponding angular velocities (ω) of maximal arm flexions against different constant torques. Using Hill's equation: (M+a) (ω+b) = constant, a best fitting curve was calculated through the points of measurement.

Two-way analysis of variance revealed only few statistically significant (P < 0.05) changes in the parameters describing the course of the FVC. The results suggest that the force-velocity characteristics of muscle of previously well-trained sportsmen can hardly be influenced.

Key words

force velocity relationship - arm flexors - strength training