Eccentric quasi-isometric exercise produces greater impulse with less pain than isokinetic heavy–slow resistance exercise in ankle plantar flexors
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Recently, there has been growing interest in optimizing exercise protocols in sports training and rehabilitation, with particular attention to eccentric quasi-isometric (EQI) contractions, which involve maintaining joint position until isometric failure and then resisting the subsequent eccentric phase. Evidence directly comparing EQI with other contraction modes remains scarce. This quasi-randomized controlled trial examined the short-term effects of EQI versus isokinetic heavy–slow resistance (IHSR) exercises on ankle plantar flexors, focusing on pain, range of motion (RoM), and strength performance. Thirty-two physically active participants were allocated to EQI (n = 16) or IHSR (n = 16) groups and assessed at baseline, immediately post-exercise, and 24 and 48 h later. Both groups performed three exercise sets with 3 min breaks. The protocols were designed to approximate matched loading, based on preliminary testing. Nevertheless, the EQI group achieved a significantly greater total impulse (p = 0.028), a shorter time under tension (p = 0.001), and lower effort scores (p < 0.001). Group × time analysis revealed less decline in maximal voluntary isometric contraction torque (p = 0.002
Authors: Križaj, Luka, Kozinc, Žiga, Šarabon, Nejc
Language: English
Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7115239441
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