Effects of training with elastic resistance versus conventional resistance on muscular strength: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Given the practicality and low cost of using elastic resistance in training for different populations and its effectiveness in a range of outcomes, a comparison with conventional devices could clarify and quantify the benefits provided by both mode. To compare the effects of resistance training with elastic devices (tubes and Thera-Bands) and conventional devices (weight machines and dumbbells) on the outcome muscular strength. A search was performed in the databases PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database), and CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) from the earliest records up to 20 December 2017. Data were pooled into a meta-analysis and described as standardized mean difference with a 95% confidence interval (registration number: CRD42016042152). Eight studies were included. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated no superiority between the methods analyzed for upper limb (standardized mean difference = −0.011; 95% confidence interval = −0.40, 0.19; p = 0.48) or lower limb muscular strength (standardized mean difference = 0.09; 95% confidence interval = −0.18, 0.35; p = 0.52). Elastic resistance training is able to promote similar strength gains to conventional resistance training, in different population profiles and using diverse protocols.

Specific interventions for prevention of muscle injury in lower limbs: systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Introduction: Muscle injuries show an incidence associated with extreme stretching, or even a high-intensity eccentric contraction. Such injuries cause severe damage to athletes, including lower performance, withdrawal, and psychological distress. In this scenario, the study of effective preventive methods is an indispensable factor in the routine of professional athletes, to reduce the incidence of injuries. Objective: To verify the effectiveness of three different interventions (warm-up, neuromuscular training, and eccentric exercise) to prevent muscle injuries in the lower limbs. Method: We searched the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, PEDro, and PubMed databases from the earliest records until January 20, 2018. The search was performed from word combinations such as clinical trial, muscle strain, injury prevention. The data related to the outcome of prevention were grouped in meta-analysis and described in Risk Ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval. Results: Sixteen studies were included: five assessed eccentric exercise, three investigated neuromuscular training, and eight observed warm-up. The eccentric exercise (RR = 3.49, 95% CI 2.36, 5.16, p < 0.00001) and the neuromuscular training (RR = 2.73, 95% CI 2.03, 2.68, p < 0.00001) showed significant effects on the prevention of muscle injuries in lower limbs. On the other hand, warm-up (RR = 1.57, 95% CI 0.92, 2.7, p = 0.10) was irrelevant in reducing the incidence of injuries in the body segment investigated. Conclusion: The outcomes presented provide clinical relevance inherent in the field practices, with intrinsic potential for practical application in the management of specific preventive techniques.