Effect of four different hamstring and quadriceps training protocols on explosive strength

Introduction: The main objective of this study was to analyze more effective muscle work on some explosive strength performance variables. The secondary objectives were to determine how gender influences results and influence of the muscle work type on physiological parameters.Material and methodRandomized controlled trial single-blind clinical trial, allocated by blocks and by sex.The study sample consisted of 80 healthy and active subjects divided into four muscle work groups: concentric, eccentric, concentric-eccentric and isometric.4 sets of 12 repetitions, 1-min rest between series, were performed for dynamic workgroups. For the isometric work 6s with 20 rest. 12-min time in 12 consecutive days.ResultsMain Outcomes Measures: sex, age, weight, height, body mass index, blood pressure and heart rate, jumping power, vertical jumping, horizontal jumping and speed 60m.The concentric-eccentric group achieved the best results without statistically significant differences. The men improved the speed more by 60m. Women improved in jumping power, vertical jumping and horizontal jumping. Results were statistically significant if p<0.05.ConclusionsThe group that performed the dynamic concentric-eccentric muscle work improved the performance variables analyzed further.Women are equally improved by men and heart rate dropped to the same extent. (AU)

Regeneration of the semitendinosus tendon after its harvesting for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

The semitendinosus muscle has a unique anatomical structure. Its long and strong distal tendon is frequently selected as a material for autogenous grafts in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The article provides an overview of literature concerning the little known process of spontaneous regeneration of the semitendinosus tendon after its harvesting. Subsequent to harvesting, the muscle devoid of its distal tendon demonstrates regeneration potential. It sends an outgrowth which is structurally very similar to the original tendon. This process is observed in the majority of patients. This tendon-like structure usually attaches to fascial structures below the knee joint. There are suggestions that partial functional recovery of the muscle from which the tendon has been harvested is possible.