Relationship between isometric neuromuscular function of the leg extensors with performance tests in basketball

Abstract

The aim of this research was to determine the relationship between the isometric force-time characteristics of the leg extensors and speed and agility performance. Material and Methods — Sixty young elite basketball players performed a standardized isometric leg press test in order to assess the characteristics of isometric force and 9 field tests in order to assess speed and agility performances. Results — Based on obtained results, among the measured leg extensors` force-time characteristics with the observed characteristics of performance tests, the best correlation was in maximal force parameters (from r=0.370 to r=0.610 with agility and from r=0.345 to r=0.574 with speed performance) and in rate of force development, measured in time interval of 180 ms, i.e. the characteristic ground contact time during running in submaximal exertion regime, frequent changes of movement direction and vertical rebounds (from r=0.357 to r=0.612 with agility and from r=0.320 to r=0.468 with speed performance). Conclusion — The practical implications of a moderate to strong and consistent correlation between neuromuscular function of the leg extensors and characteristics of performance tests might indicate that improvements in force-time characteristics in young basketball players, may result in significant improvements in speed and change of direction performances longitudinally.