Effect of Strength Training on EMG of Human Skeletal Muscle

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Abstract
The effects of an 8 wk period of systematic progressive strength training on leg extensor muscles (vastus lateralis and rectus femoris) were investigated in 8 healthy male subjects (22-31 yr). After training there were indications of a decline in integrated EMG [electromyography] (IEMG) during maximal isometric knee extension and in the IEMG vs. isometric force relationship. The averaged motor unit potential (AMUP) did not demonstrate any significant changes due to the strength training regimen. None or only minor alterations were observed in anthropometrics, muscle enzyme activities and fiber composition. The fiber area ratio indicated a specific effect of the training stimuli on the fast twitch muscle fibers. EMG-analyses did not provide any conclusive additional explanation as to the mechanisms behind the well established gains in muscle strength performance.