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Varela-Olalla D, Balsalobre-Fernández C, Romero-Moraleda B, Jiménez-Sáiz SL. Reliability and Validity of the Strain Gauge "GSTRENGTH" for Measuring Peak Force in the Isometric Belt Squat at Different Joint Angles. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:3256. [PMID: 38794110 PMCID: PMC11125260 DOI: 10.3390/s24103256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Since isometric training is gaining popularity, some devices are being developed to test isometric force as an alternative to the more expensive force plates (FPs); thus, the aim of this study was to test the reliability and validity of "GSTRENGTH" for measuring PF in the isometric belt squat exercise. Five subjects performed 24 contractions at three different knee angles (90°, 105° and 120°) on two occasions (120 total cases). Peak force data were measured using FPs and a strain gauge (SG) and analyzed by Pearson's product-moment correlation coefficient, ICCs, Cronbach's alpha, a paired sample t-test and Bland-Altman plots. Perfect or almost perfect relationships (r: 0.999-1) were found with an almost perfect or perfect level of agreement (ICCs: 0.992-1; α: 0.998-1). The t-test showed significant differences for the raw data but not for the predictions by the equations obtained with the SG values. The Bland-Altman plots, when significant, showed trivial to moderate values for systematic bias in general. In conclusion, "GSTRENGTH" was shown to be a valid alternative to FPs for measuring PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Varela-Olalla
- Applied Biomechanics and Sports Technology Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Sport and Human Movement, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (D.V.-O.); (C.B.-F.); (B.R.-M.)
| | - Carlos Balsalobre-Fernández
- Applied Biomechanics and Sports Technology Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Sport and Human Movement, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (D.V.-O.); (C.B.-F.); (B.R.-M.)
| | - Blanca Romero-Moraleda
- Applied Biomechanics and Sports Technology Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Sport and Human Movement, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (D.V.-O.); (C.B.-F.); (B.R.-M.)
- Real Federación Española de Futbol, Las Rozas, 28232 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio L. Jiménez-Sáiz
- Sport Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Education & Sport Sciences and Interdisciplinary Studies, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Fuenlabrada, 28943 Madrid, Spain
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Oranchuk D, Juneau C, Diewald S, Neville J, Cronin J. The Validity of a Portable Strain-Gauge Apparatus Versus a Commercial Isokinetic Dynamometer for Evaluating Knee Extension Kinetics. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2024; 19:258-267. [PMID: 38439775 PMCID: PMC10909301 DOI: 10.26603/001c.92742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Isokinetic dynamometers are widely used when assessing neuromuscular function including knee extension kinetics. However, these dynamometers are often prohibitively expensive and are not portable. Thus strain-gauge technology has grown in popularity. Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare kinetic data captured via an isokinetic dynamometer against an affordable and portable strain-gauge with a treatment plinth during maximal isometric knee extensions. Study Design Cross-sectional study. Methods Healthy participants (8 males and 6 females; age 30.2±7.1 years) volunteered and performed knee extensions at a 90° knee angle on a dynamometer and a treatment plinth with a portable strain-gauge. Peak force (PF), peak rate of force development (PRFD), rate of force development (RFD2080) and impulse (IMP2080) from 20-80% of onset to peak force were assessed using both strain-gauge and isokinetic dynamometer. Between-device differences were evaluated by the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Cohen's d effect sizes (ES), Pearson's correlation coefficients (r), and Bland-Altman plots. Results No significant or meaningful differences were identified between isokinetic and strain-gauge devices (all p≥0.268, ES≤0.35). However, slightly greater (2.5-9.5%) outputs were observed with the isokinetic dynamometer. Very large significant between-device correlations were found for PF (r=0.77, p=0.001) and PRFD (r=0.73, p=0.003), while small and moderate non-significant between-device correlations were found for RFD2080 (r=0.48, p=0.079) and IMP2080 (r=0.59, p=0.060). Bland-Altman plots did not reveal apparent biases from high to low performers. Conclusions These results indicate that the strain-gauge device can produce valid maximal and rapid force expression measurements. Similar results, such as those quantified via an isokinetic device, can be obtained without extreme rigour and constraint. The study's findings support using the practically relevant treatment plinth and strain-gauge combination as a suitable alternative to the isokinetic dynamometry for measuring PF and PRFD. Therefore, more rehabilitation and sports performance practitioners can confidently assess knee extension kinetics. Level of Evidence 3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin Oranchuk
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
| | - Chris Juneau
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand Auckland University of Technology
| | - Shelley Diewald
- Sports Performance Research Institute Auckland University of Technology
| | - Jono Neville
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand Auckland University of Technology
| | - John Cronin
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand Auckland University of Technology
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Oranchuk DJ, Hopkins WG, Cronin JB, Storey AG, Nelson AR. The effects of regional quadriceps architecture on angle-specific rapid force expression. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2023; 48:829-840. [PMID: 37390497 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2023-0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Evaluating anatomical contributions to performance can increase understanding of muscle mechanics and guide physical preparation. While the impact of anatomy on muscular performance is well studied, the effects of regional quadriceps architecture on rapid torque or force expression are less clear. Regional (proximal, middle, and distal) quadriceps (vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, and vastus intermedius) thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), and fascicle length (FL) of 24 males (48 limbs) were assessed via ultrasonography. Participants performed maximal isometric knee extensions at 40°, 70°, and 100° of knee flexion to evaluate rate of force development from 0 to 200 ms (RFD0-200). Measurements were repeated on three occasions with the greatest RFD0-200 and mean muscle architecture measures used for analysis. Linear regression models predicting angle-specific RFD0-200 from regional anatomy provided adjusted correlations (√adjR2) with bootstrapped compatibility limits. Mid-rectus femoris MT (√adjR2 = 0.41-0.51) and proximal vastus lateralis FL (√adjR2 = 0.42-0.48) were the best single predictors of RFD0-200, and the only measures to reach precision with 99% compatibility limits. Small simple correlations were found across all regions and joint angles between RFD0-200 and vastus lateralis MT (√adjR2 = 0.28 ± 0.13; mean ± SD), vastus lateralis FL (√adjR2 = 0.33 ± 0.10), rectus femoris MT (√adjR2 = 0.38 ± 0.10), and lateral vastus intermedius MT (√adjR2 = 0.24 ± 0.10). Between-correlation comparisons are reported within the article. Researchers should measure mid-region rectus femoris MT and vastus lateralis FL to efficiently and robustly evaluate potential anatomical contributions to rapid knee extension force changes, with distal and proximal measurements providing little additional value. However, correlations were generally small to moderate, suggesting that neurological factors may be critical in rapid force expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin J Oranchuk
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
- Muscle Morphology, Mechanics, and Performance Laboratory, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, US
| | - William G Hopkins
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John B Cronin
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Adam G Storey
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - André R Nelson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
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Intersession Variability of Knee Extension Kinetics Using a Strain Gauge Device With Differing Clinically Practical Physical Constraints. J Sport Rehabil 2023; 32:96-101. [PMID: 36395761 DOI: 10.1123/jsr.2022-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Intrasession reliabilities of isometric knee extension kinetics via portable strain gauge have been reported across several knee joint angles and constraints. However, intersession variabilities, which are more valuable, have yet to be determined. Therefore, we aimed to quantify the intersession variability of knee extension kinetics over 3 testing sessions using an affordable and portable strain gauge. DESIGN Participants performed maximum voluntary isometric contractions of the knee extensors over 3 sessions. METHODS Eleven (6 men and 5 women; 31 [6.4] y) volunteers performed maximum voluntary isometric contractions in constrained (isokinetic setup with thigh and chest straps) and unconstrained (treatment plinth) conditions. Peak force (PF), peak rate of force development, rate of force development (RFD), and impulse (IMP) from 20% to 80% of PF were assessed. Means, SDs, percentage changes, minimal detectable changes, coefficients of variation (CV), and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated and reported. RESULTS PF had the lowest intersession variability regardless of condition (CV = 5.5%-13.8%, ICC = .67-.93). However, variability of peak rate of force development (CV [range] = 12.2%-24.7%, ICC = .50-.78), RFD (CV = 10.0%-26.8%, ICC = .48-.84), and IMP (CV = 15.2%-35.4%, ICC = .44-.88) was moderate at best. The constrained condition (CV [SD] = 14.1% [4.8%], ICC = .74 [.08]) had lower variability compared with the plinth (CV = 19.8% [7.9%], ICC = .68 [.15]). Variability improved from sessions 1 to 2 (CV = 20.4% [7.7%], ICC = .64 [.14]) and to sessions 2 to 3 (CV = 15.3% [6.4%], ICC = .76 [.10]). CONCLUSIONS PF can be assessed regardless of setup. However, RFD and IMP changes across sessions should be approached with caution. Backrests and thigh straps improve RFD and IMP variability, and at least 1 familiarization session should be provided before relying on knee-extensor kinetics while utilizing a portable strain gauge.
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Oranchuk DJ, Hopkins WG, Nelson AR, Storey AG, Cronin JB. The effect of regional quadriceps anatomical parameters on angle-specific isometric torque expression. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2021; 46:368-378. [DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2020-0565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The length–tension relationship affects knee extension performance; however, whether anatomical variations in different quadriceps regions affect this relationship is unknown. Regional (proximal, middle, distal) quadriceps thickness (MT), pennation angle, and fascicle length of 24 males (48 limbs) were assessed via ultrasonography. Participants also performed maximal voluntary isometric torque (MVIT) assessments at 40°, 70°, and 100° of knee flexion. Measures were recorded on 3 separate occasions. Linear regression models predicting angle-specific torque from regional anatomy provided adjusted simple and multiple correlations (√adjR2) with bootstrapped compatibility limits to assess magnitude. Middle vastus lateralis MT and MVIT at 100° (√adjR2 = 0.64) was the largest single correlation, with distal vastus lateralis MT having the greatest mean correlations regardless of angle (√adjR2 = 0.61 ± 0.05, mean ± SD). Lateral distal MT and architecture had larger (Δ√adjR2 = 0.01 to 0.43) single and multiple correlations with MVIT than the lateral proximal (√adjR2 = 0.15 to 0.69 vs −0.08 to 0.65). Conversely, middle anterior MT had greater (Δ√adjR2 = 0.08 to 0.38) single and multiple correlations than proximal MT (√adjR2 = 0.09 to 0.49 vs −0.21 to 0.14). The length–tension relationship was trivially affected by regional quadriceps architecture. The middle and distal quadriceps were the strongest predictors of MVIT at all joint angles. Therefore, researchers may wish to focus on middle and distal lateral quadriceps anatomy when performing ultrasonographic evaluations. Novelty: The length–tension relationship is minimally affected by regional quadriceps anatomical parameters. Middle and distal vastus lateralis and lateral vastus intermedius anatomy were consistently the best predictors of torque. Practitioners may focus their assessments on the middle and distal regions of the lateral quadriceps’ musculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin J. Oranchuk
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia
| | - William G. Hopkins
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia
| | - André R. Nelson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne 8001, Australia
| | - Adam G. Storey
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
| | - John B. Cronin
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
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Concurrent Validity and Reliability of Three Ultra-Portable Vertical Jump Assessment Technologies. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20247240. [PMID: 33348726 PMCID: PMC7767135 DOI: 10.3390/s20247240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Vertical jump is a valuable training, testing, and readiness monitoring tool used across a multitude of sport settings. However, accurate field analysis has not always been readily available or affordable. For this study, two-dimensional motion capture (Mo-Cap), G-Flight micro-sensor, and PUSH accelerometer technologies were compared to a research-grade force-plate. Twelve healthy university students (7 males, 5 females) volunteered for this study. Each participant performed squat jumps, countermovement jumps, and drop jumps on three separate occasions. Between-device differences were determined using a one-way repeated measures ANOVA. Systematic bias was determined by limits of agreement using Bland-Altman analysis. Variability was examined via the coefficient of variation, interclass correlation coefficient, and typical error of measure. Dependent variables included jump height, contact-time, and reactive strength index (RSI). Mo-Cap held the greatest statistical similarity to force-plates, only overestimating contact-time (+12 ms). G-Flight (+1.3-4 cm) and PUSH (+4.1-4.5 cm) consistently overestimate jump height, while PUSH underestimates contact-time (-24 ms). Correspondingly, RSI was the most valid metric across all technologies. All technologies held small to moderate variably; however, variability was greatest with the G-Flight. While all technologies are practically implementable, practitioners may want to consider budget, athlete characteristics, exercise demands, set-up, and processing time before purchasing the most appropriate equipment.
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Short-term neuromuscular, morphological, and architectural responses to eccentric quasi-isometric muscle actions. Eur J Appl Physiol 2020; 121:141-158. [PMID: 32995961 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04512-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Eccentric quasi-isometric (EQI) contractions have been proposed as a novel training method for safely exposing the musculotendinous system to a large mechanical load/impulse, with few repetitions. However, understanding of this contraction type is rudimentary. We aimed to compare the acute effects of a single session of isotonic EQIs with isokinetic eccentric (ECC) contractions. METHODS Fifteen well-trained men performed a session of impulse-equated EQI and ECC knee extensions, with each limb randomly allocated to one contraction type. Immediately PRE, POST, 24/48/72 h, and 7 days post-exercise, regional soreness, quadriceps swelling, architecture, and echo intensity were evaluated. Peak concentric and isometric torque, rate of torque development (RTD), and angle-specific impulse were evaluated at each time point. RESULTS There were substantial differences in the number of contractions (ECC: 100.8 ± 54; EQI: 3.85 ± 1.1) and peak torque (mean: ECC: 215 ± 54 Nm; EQI: 179 ± 28.5 Nm). Both conditions elicited similar responses in 21/53 evaluated variables. EQIs resulted in greater vastus intermedius swelling (7.1-8.8%, ES = 0.20-0.29), whereas ECC resulted in greater soreness at the distal and middle vastus lateralis and distal rectus femoris (16.5-30.4%, ES = 0.32-0.54) and larger echogenicity increases at the distal rectus femoris and lateral vastus intermedius (11.9-15.1%, ES = 0.26--0.54). Furthermore, ECC led to larger reductions in concentric (8.3-19.7%, ES = 0.45-0.62) and isometric (6.3-32.3%, ES = 0.18-0.70) torque and RTD at medium-long muscle lengths. CONCLUSION A single session of EQIs resulted in less soreness and smaller reductions in peak torque and RTD versus impulse-equated ECC contractions, yet morphological shifts were largely similar. Long-term morphological, architectural, and neuromuscular adaptations to EQI training requires investigation.
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Oranchuk DJ, Stock MS, Nelson AR, Storey AG, Cronin JB. Variability of regional quadriceps echo intensity in active young men with and without subcutaneous fat correction. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2020; 45:745-752. [PMID: 31917597 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2019-0601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Quantifying echo intensity (EI), a proposed measure of muscle quality, is becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, much attention has been paid to regional differences in other ultrasonically evaluated measures of muscle morphology and architecture. However, the variability of regional (proximal, middle, distal) EI of the vastus lateralis, rectus femoris, and lateral and anterior vastus intermedius has yet to be determined. Twenty participants (40 limbs), were evaluated on 3 occasions, separated by 7 days. Intersession variability of EI with and without subcutaneous fat correction was quantified. Furthermore, the interchangeability of corrected EI across regions was evaluated. Variability of regional quadriceps EI was substantially lower with subcutaneous fat correction (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.81-0.98, coefficient of variation (CV) = 4.5%-16.8%, typical error of measure (TEM) = 0.13-0.49) versus raw values (ICC = 0.69-0.98, CV = 7.7%-42.7%, TEM = 0.14-0.68), especially when examining the vastus intermedius (ICC = 0.81-0.95, CV = 7.1%-16.8%, TEM = 0.23-0.49 vs. ICC = 0.69-0.92, CV = 22.9%-42.7%, TEM = 0.31-0.68). With the exception of the rectus femoris and vastus intermedius (p ≥ 0.143, effect size (ES) ≤ 0.18), corrected EI was greater for proximal and distal regions when compared with the midpoint (p ≤ 0.038, ES = 0.38-0.82). Researchers and practitioners should utilize subcutaneous fat thickness correction to confidently evaluate EI at all regions of the quadriceps. Regional EI cannot be used interchangeably for the vastus muscles, likely because of an increase in fibrous content towards the myotendinous junctions. Novelty Regional quadriceps echo intensity was reliable with and without correction for subcutaneous fat thickness. Intersession variability of regional quadriceps echo intensity was substantially improved following subcutaneous fat correction. Quadriceps echo intensity increased towards myotendinous junctions in the vastus muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dustin J Oranchuk
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Matt S Stock
- School of Kinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816, USA
| | - André R Nelson
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adam G Storey
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - John B Cronin
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, Auckland University of Technology, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, New Zealand
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