FAST ISOKINETIC MOVEMENTS MOST RELATED TO MAXIMAL POWER OUTPUT

Tobol, R., Peiffer, J., Garcia, B., Talanian, J., Faria, I. E., Quintana, R., & Parker, D. L. (2003). Relationship between isokinetic strength and maximal power output in trained cyclists. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 35(5), Supplement abstract 1503.

Trained cyclists (N = 14) completed a maximal exercise test on a cycle ergometer following a standardized warm-up. The starting workload was 70 Watts and increased 35 Watts each minute until Ss reached volitional fatigue. The highest power output sustained for one minute was defined as maximal power output. After 30 minutes of rest, Ss completed two maximal isokinetic knee extensions at each of 60, 120, 180, and 240 degrees per second.

Maximal power was moderately but significantly related to torque at 180 degrees (r = .68) and 240 degrees (r = .65).

Implication. Isokinetic force production at high rates of movement is most related to maximal power output in cyclists.

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