Conclusions
elbow flexion exercise
ANDERSEN
In conclusion, differences in sEMG amplitude were observed across conditions during isolated elbow flexion exercise. The electromagnetic device and its associated advanced training modes tended to produce greater amplitudes in the anterior deltoid, while DB tended to produce greater amplitudes in the brachioradialis; amplitude for the biceps brachii was relatively similar between conditions. Overall, any observed differences were relatively modest, equating to magnitudes of ~ 5% and not likely greater than 10%. These differences would seem to be of minimal practical significance.Andersen et al.Overall, the findings would seem to suggest that electromagnetic technology produces a similar muscle excitation to dumbbells during elbow flexion, and thus conceivably could be considered a viable alternative for RT programs in resistance-trained individuals. However, contrary to expectations, the advanced training methods associated with the electromagnetic device did not generally produce a heightened sEMG response. Although the intention of variable resistance training is to match the resistance to the human strength curve and thus enhance the stimulus throughout the range of motion, the VR tended to display similar amplitudes compared to other conditions. Similarly, while EO is intended to provide a greater stimulus during eccentric actions, this effect was generally not observed during performance compared to the other conditions in the target muscle. These results call into question the benefits of employing VR and EO with electromagnetic technology, at least from the standpoint of increasing muscle excitation to the working musculature. The implications of these findings to long-term muscular adaptations remain to be determined and require further investigation.