The effects of an eccentric strength training program on functional tasks, muscle strength and force enhancement in elderly: four case studies

Abstract

An active stretch prior an isometric phase will lead to higher force production in that contraction compared to purely isometric contraction at the same final muscle length (Force Enhancement: FE). It is not known which effect eccentric strength training has on FE. Four cases (non-frail elderly) were included in the study but only three cases performed the four-week eccentric training program of the m. Quadriceps Femoris. A pre and post measurement was conducted on the Biodex to determine the isometric and eccentric muscle strength and the presence of FE. Also functional tests like the Timed up and go test (TUGT) and the Five Timed Chair Stand Test (5TCST) -were tested. All cases showed an improvement in the isometric strength and the eccentric strength. The improvement on the functional tasks were rather small or absent. In two out of three cases FE was present. An eccentric training program had a positive influence on the isometric and eccentric muscle strength. A conclusion could not be drawn whether an eccentric training program affects FE and if it can be used in a rehabilitation program.