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Peak Isokinetic Torques of Football Players Participating in Different Levels in Cyprus and Lower Limb Asymmetries



Author(s)

Koulla Parpa and Marcos Michaelides

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DOI:10.17265/2332-7839/2017.05.003

BACKGROUND: Lower body strength is considered to be a critical component towards successful exercise performance in football players. The aim of this study was to describe the peak isokinetic torque of the knee in professional football players of different League divisions in Cyprus and assess bilateral and unilateral asymmetries of strength. METHODS: Four hundred and twenty-nine professional male football players participated in this study (Division 1, n = 245 and Division 2, n = 184). The isokinetic muscle function of the knee was measured using the Humac Norm Testing and Rehabilitation system (CSMi Medical & Solution, USA). Measurements were collected at angle speeds of 60 °/sec and 300 °/sec, for 3 and 25- repetitions respectively. RESULTS: At both angle speeds, peak isokinetic torque of the knee joint was significantly higher in the right and left knees of players in Division 1 (D1) compared to those competing in Division 2 (D2). At both testing speeds, peak flexor torque of the left hamstrings was significantly higher in players participating in Division 1 compared to those competing in Division 2. The right hamstrings yielded similar results, except at 60 °/sec, where no difference was found between the groups. CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable data regarding the forces produced by the lower body of football players participating in D1 and D2 in Cyprus, whilst also disclosing there to be no bilateral imbalances or abnormal H/Q ratios. The results of this study may provide pertinent information that can be used by the coaching staff for training and recruiting purposes. 

Isokinetic testing, muscle imbalances, knee torque.