In order to determine the effect an concentric vs. eccentric strength training program has on fiber bundle length, pennation angle, muscle thickness and muscle strength of the supraspinatus muscle, thirteen subjects underwent an eight week training program consisting of either concentric or eccentric contractions. Before and after the program musculoskeletal ultrasound scans and isometric and isokinetic tests of shoulder abduction strength were conducted.
Fiber bundle length decreased significantly as a result of a concentric training program, whereas the eccentric strength training did not result in a decreased fiber bundle length. Pennation angle, muscle thickness and muscle strength increased similarly in both groups. Applying eccentric training may lead to preservation of fiber bundle length, allowing the muscle to sustain force over a greater ROM.
> From: Kim et al., J Sci Med Sport (2015-04-28 17:42:09) (Epub ahead of print). All rights reserved to Elsevier Ltd. Click here for the online summary.
