Anatomical and neuromuscular variables strongly predict maximum knee extension torque in healthy men

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Title

European Journal of Applied Physiology

Publisher

Springer

School

School of Exercise and Health Sciences / Centre for Exercise and Sports Science Research

RAS ID

21960

Comments

Trezise, J., Collier, N., & Blazevich, A. J. (2016). Anatomical and neuromuscular variables strongly predict maximum knee extension torque in healthy men. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 116(6), 1159-1177. Available here

Abstract

PurposeThis study examined the relative influence of anatomical and neuromuscular variables on maximal isometric and concentric knee extensor torque and provided a comparative dataset for healthy young males.MethodsQuadriceps cross-sectional area (CSA) and fascicle length (l f) and angle (θ f) from the four quadriceps components; agonist (EMG:M) and antagonist muscle activity, and percent voluntary activation (%VA); patellar tendon moment arm distance (MA) and maximal voluntary isometric and concentric (60° s−1) torques, were measured in 56 men. Linear regression models predicting maximum torque were ranked using Akaike’s Information Criterion (AICc), and Pearson’s correlation coefficients assessed relationships between variables.ResultsThe best-fit models explained up to 72 % of the variance in maximal voluntary knee extension torque. The combination of ‘CSA + θ f + EMG:M + %VA’ best predicted maximum isometric torque (R 2 = 72 %, AICc weight = 0.38) and ‘CSA + θ f + MA’ (R 2 = 65 %, AICc weight = 0.21) best predicted maximum concentric torque.ConclusionProximal quadriceps CSA was included in all models rather than the traditionally used mid-muscle CSA. Fascicle angle appeared consistently in all models despite its weak correlation with maximum torque in isolation, emphasising the importance of examining interactions among variables. While muscle activity was important for torque prediction in both contraction modes, MA only strongly influenced maximal concentric torque. These models identify the main sources of inter-individual differences strongly influencing maximal knee extension torque production in healthy men. The comparative dataset allows the identification of potential variables to target (i.e. weaknesses) in individuals.

DOI

10.1007/s00421-016-3352-8

Access Rights

subscription content

Link to Full Text

Share

 
COinS