Differential effects of ankle position on isokinetic knee extensor and flexor strength gains during strength training

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the influence of two different active ankle positions during training on the strengths of knee extensors and flexors. METHODS: A sample of 21 healthy adults was randomized into ankle dorsiflexion (AD, N = 11) and ankle plantarflexion (AP, N = 10) training groups. Subjects were trained isokinetically and concentrically in knee extension and flexion under these two actively fixed, contracted ankle conditions, four times a week for three weeks. RESULTS: AD group showed significant strength improvements in both peak moment and total work. These improvements were also higher significantly, between 29–59% compared to those gained by AP group. CONCLUSION: Active ankle dorsiflexion during concentric isokinetic knee strength training may be more efficient for improving knee extensors and flexors strength than a plantarflexed position.