Electromyographic Analysis Of Steel Mace Exercises: A Descriptive Study Of Alternative Training Modalities

Abstract

Alternative training modalities (ATM) have recently gained popularity as a form of resistance exercise through non-traditional methods and equipment. ATM share a common characteristic, the incorporation of non-traditional exercise movements and equipment in efforts to develop strength in a multi-planar fashion. Forms of common ATM include kettlebells, battle ropes, tires, and the steel mace. The steel mace, like a sledgehammer, consists of a long-levered club attached with a heavy sphere (i.e. mace head) fixed at one end. What remains relatively unknown are the neuromuscular demands of specific muscles or muscle groups among steel mace exercises. PURPOSE: To examine the electromyographic profile of four common steel mace exercises: the overhead squat, 360° overhead rotation, reverse lunge offset, and lap offset squat. METHODS: Twenty-nine resistance-trained males (n=15) and females (n=14) were recruited to participate in this cross-over experimental design investigation. All participants completed each of the four exercises with the mace head (i.e. heavy sphere) on both dominant and non-dominant sides of the body. Normalized surface electromyography (EMG) of the dominant-side upper trapezius, anterior deltoid, pectoralis major, triceps brachii, biceps brachii, external oblique, rectus femoris, and biceps femoris were analyzed. A one-way ANOVA was used to compare normalized EMG among muscles within each exercise and among exercises for each muscle. RESULTS: As a summary of major findings, for each exercise and muscle group, EMG activity was significantly altered when positioning the mace head ipsilateral vs. contralateral to the dominant side (p<0.05). Additionally, each exercise demonstrated differential EMG activities among muscle groups (p<0.05). Overall, the upper trapezius and rectus femoris exhibited the greatest EMG activity (p<0.05). All muscle groups except for the biceps brachii and external oblique showed differential EMG activity among exercises (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The present findings provide practically significant information regarding the muscle-specific demands of popular steel mace exercises which may provide valuable insight for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and exercise practitioners who implement steel mace training programs.