| Description |
Isometric and isokinetic strength loss following damaging eccentric exercise (Edam) has been widely studied but changes in functional (neuromuscular power) and perceptual (perceived effort) responses have received less attention. The purpose of this investigation was to quantify neuromuscular function during E d a m and evaluate recovery of maximal power (Pm ax) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) to a challenging submaximal task. Eleven trained cyclists (age: 30 ± 8 yrs; mass: 74 ± 8 kg, height: 176 ± 9 cm) performed eccentric cycling with their right leg (Edam) and concentric cycling with their left leg (control) until total work was matched (-69 ± 5 kJ vs. 70 ± 5 kJ). Single-leg Pmax was assessed with inertial-load cycling on three different crank lengths (120, 170, and 220 mm). Single-leg RPE in response to a 90 s standardized submaximal cycling task (2kp, 80 rpm) was assessed with a Borg scale. Biomechanical joint powers were calculated during maximal isokinetic cycling (120 rpm) using a force measuring pedal and instrumental spatial linkage system. All measures were assessed at six time points (baseline, 0, 24, 48, 72, 96 hr). One-way ANOVA indicated that the knee joint absorbed the majority of eccentric work during Edam- Repeated measures ANOVA indicated that P m a x decreased (0-72 hr) on all three crank lengths and RPE increased (0-72 hr) in the damaged leg. Joint powers produced by the ankle, knee, and hip were not different following Edam- This study is the first to quantify and control eccentric work. P m a x findings support previous reports but fail to identify the intrinsic mechanism that limits maximal power recovery. The wide variation in joint powers may reflect differences in the location of muscle damage and/or recovery strategies. Alterations in RPE appear to be quite different compared to traditional soreness measures. From the results of this investigation I conclude that P m a x and RPE are more functional recovery measures compared to traditional strength and soreness measures. |
