ABSTRACT
Objective The purpose of this study was to assess isokinetic strength of lower extremities and find out weak muscles in Chinese elite fencers. Methods Bilateral peak torque of flexors and extensors of hip, knee and ankle in 26 national fencers,aged 23.1±2.36 yrs,were tested isokinetically at speeds of 60 and 240 deg/sec. Results (1)Hip: compared with 60 deg/sec,peak torques of bilateral extensors significantly decreased at 240 deg/sec (P0.05); At two velocities, flexor peak torques in leading leg of men fencers were significantly higher than trailing one(P0.05);Flexor/extensor torque ratio was lower than normal at two velocities in all fencers. (2)Knee: strength of flexors and extensors in 60 deg/ sec and extensor in 240 deg/sec of men fencers were significantly different between leading and trailing legs (P0.05); ankle flexor/extensor ratio were lower than normal at two velocities in all fencers. Conclusion (1)Bilateral asymmetry in isokinetic muscle strength exists in men fencers,but not obvious in women fencers. (2)Weak muscles for fencers were hip extensor,knee flexor,especially in leading knee and ankle extensor.