Power development through low velocity isotonic, or combined low velocity isotonic - high velocity isokinetic training

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to increase power via a combined high velocity isokinetic, and low velocity, heavy resistance isotonic, training regimen. Methods. Twenty-nine subjects (aged 19-29 yrs) were pre- and post-tested for the following dependent variables; vertical jump leg power (VJP) and vertical jump height (VJH); Wingate peak anaerobic power (PkAnP), Wingate PkAnP kg-1, and Wingate mean anaerobic power (MAnP); isotonic one-repetition maximum (1RM) squat, knee flexion, and knee extension; and isokinetic peak torque (PT) and time to peak torque (TPT) at 60, 180, 300, 400, and 500°sec-1. Subjects, who were randomly assigned to three groups, trained twice a week for 10 wks. Group 1 (n=9) performed isotonic knee flexion and extension exercises, Group 2 performed seated isokinetic consecutive knee extension-flexion (concentric-concentric) exercises, and Group 3 performed a combination of the isotonic and isokinetic exercises of groups 1 and 2. All groups also performed squats at the start of each training session. Results. Significant improvements were revealed from pre- to post-test for all dependant variables regardless of group. Peak torque extension values were significantly greater for group 1 than group 2 (mean difference= 14.2 ft lbs, SEE= ±6.04; p<0.05) regardless of test or velocity. Conclusions. Combined high velocity isokinetic, and low velocity, heavy resistance isotonic exercise did not improve power when compared to isotonic training alone.