Parkinson's disease and multicomponent aquatic exercise: Effects on motor aspects,functional mobility,muscle function and aquatic motor skills

ObjectiveAnalyze the effects of a multicomponent aquatic exercise program on motor aspects, functional mobility, muscle function and aquatic motor skills of people with PD.MethodsEighteen people with a PD diagnosis were assessed before and after a 12-week multicomponent aquatic exercise program, twice a week, with each session lasting 50 min. The terrestrial variables analyzed were motor aspects, through the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS); functional mobility, through the Five Times Sit to Stand Test (FTSST); Peak Torque (PT) and Mean Power (MP) of hip, knee and ankle flexors and extensors, assessed using an isokinetic dynamometer. In water, aquatic motor skill levels were assessed by means of the Aquatic Functional Assessment Scale (AFAS).ResultsSignificant improvements were found after the intervention in the following outcomes: motor aspects (p = 0.038, Δ = 5–61); MP of knee flexors at 90°/s on the most affected side (p = 0.026, Δ = 5.14), MP of knee extensors at 90°/s on the most affected side (p = 0.008, Δ = 8.69), MP of knee extensors at 120°/s on the most affected side (p = 0.005, Δ = 8.35), and AFAS in the domain of specialized therapeutic exercises (p = 0.014, Δ = 1.28).ConclusionsThe completed multicomponent aquatic exercise program promoted changes in muscle function and terrestrial and aquatic functional outcomes in people with PD.     

绝经妇女下肢肌力与平衡功能的相关性研究

目的:研究绝经后妇女膝关节肌力与静态平衡之间的相关性。方法:60例绝经后妇女,分别用PJ-I型电脑平衡功能检测仪测定静态平衡功能,Cybex-330等速肌力测试仪测试膝关节肌力,将所测定的平衡功能参数与肌力参数做相关性分析,按年龄分为65岁以下(含65岁)以及65岁以上年龄组,每组组内进行肌力与平衡功能相关性分析。结果:总体上静态平衡功能与下肢肌力之间无直线相关,按年龄分组后,65岁以上年龄组平衡功能与下肢肌力间存在相关性。结论:年龄相关的平衡功能减退涉及的因素繁杂,单纯膝关节肌力下降一般不至于引起显著的静态平衡功能低下。     

Analysis of the kinetic chain in asymptomatic individuals with and without scapular dyskinesis

BackgroundThis study measured strength of the trunk and hip, and compared Y Balance Test and Upper Quarter Y Balance Test in individuals without and with scapular dyskinesis. Strength and endurance of the scapulothoracic muscles were also assessed.MethodsForty-four individuals without shoulder pain were divided in 2 groups: without scapular dyskinesis (age 26.00, SD 4.10 years) and scapular dyskinesis (age 23.68, SD 4.20 years). Scapular dyskinesis was assessed by clinical observation of the scapular motion during arm elevation, and was classified as present or absent. A handheld dynamometer was used to measure the isometric strength of the trunk flexors and lateral flexors, hip extensors and abductors, lower trapezius, serratus anterior, and latissimus dorsi. Y and Upper Quarter Y Balance Tests were performed with the individual in single-limb and 3-point plank position, respectively. Endurance of the scapulothoracic muscles was assessed with the individuals in prone with the arm at 135° abduction. Independent t-test and Mann-Witney test were used for comparison between groups. A P < 0.05 was considered significant. Effect sizes between groups were also calculated.FindingsNo differences (P > 0.05) were demonstrated between groups for all variables. Moderate effect size (d ~ 0.40) was found for the trunk flexors and hip extensors, and endurance of the scapulothoracic muscles, whereas the scapular dyskinesis group showed less strength and endurance in relation to the group without dyskinesis.InterpretationStrength of the trunk flexors and hip extensors, and endurance of the scapulothoracic muscles seem to have influence in scapular dyskinesis in non-athletes without shoulder pain.     

Acute effect of different duration times of application of myofascial release on quadriceps femoris strength: A randomized clinical trial

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effect of Miofascial Release (MFR) on knee extensors strength, at different duration times of application.Method51 healthy individuals were randomly assigned to one of three groups (3min, 5min or placebo) in this randomized clinical trial. The knee extensors strength was assessed in two conditions: pre and post-intervention, using an isokinetic dynamometer, at speeds of 60° and 120°/s. MFR was applied on the anterior surface of the thigh for 3min or 5 min, according to the experimental groups. The placebo group underwent through the application of a non-therapeutic gel, associated with 3min of a light touch on the skin. Peak torque, total work and mean power were the isokinetic variables analyzed through a multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with p ≤ 0.05.ResultsOur findings suggest a main effect and interaction between moments (pre and post-intervention) and speeds (60° and 120°/s) for total work and mean power (p < 0.01). Likewise, main effect and interaction of speed were observed for peak torque (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences for the other analyzed variables.ConclusionNo significant main effect of MFR were detected in any of the proposed application time on peak torque, total work and mean power, in the knee extensors, compared to the placebo group.     

Impact of a rehabilitation program on muscular strength and endurance in peripheral arterial occlusive disease patients

Rehabilitation care and physical exercise are known to constitute an effective treatment for chronic peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) at the intermittent claudication (IC) stage. Improvements in functional capacities and quality of life have been reported in the literature. We decided to assess the effects of hospital-based exercise training on muscle strength and endurance for the ankle plantar and dorsal flexors in this pathology.Patients and methodsThis prospective study included 31 subjects with chronic peripheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and IC who followed a 4-week rehabilitation program featuring walking sessions, selective muscle strengthening, general physical exercise and therapeutic patient education. An isokinetic assessment of ankle plantar and dorsal flexors strength was conducted on the first and last days of the program. We also studied the concentric contractions at the angular velocity of 30°/s and 120°/s for muscle strength and at 180°/s for muscle fatigue. We also measured the walking distance for each patient.ResultsWalking distance improved by 246%. At baseline, the isokinetic assessment revealed severe muscle weakness (mainly of the plantar flexors). The only isokinetic parameter that improved during the rehabilitation program was the peak torque for plantar flexors at 120°/s.ConclusionAll patients presented with severe weakness and fatigability of the ankle plantar and dorsal flexors. Our program dramatically improved walking distance but not muscle strength and endurance.     

Associations of lower limb joint asymmetry with fatigue and disability in people with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundAn early symptom of multiple sclerosis is unilateral weakness, particularly in the lower limbs, which is associated with strength asymmetries. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine strength asymmetries at the hip, knee, and ankle joints, and to investigate the associations between lower limb strength asymmetries and self-reported fatigue severity and disability in people with multiple sclerosis.MethodsSixteen mildly-disabled people with multiple sclerosis (females = 9) completed isokinetic maximal voluntary contractions of the hip extensors and flexors, knee extensors and flexors, and ankle plantar flexors and dorsiflexors. Asymmetry indices between the strength of the more- and less-affected lower limbs at each muscle group and the percent agreement between self-reported and objectively-determined more-affected lower limb were calculated. Patient Determined Diseases Steps and Fatigue Severity Scale were also completed.FindingsAll joints showed asymmetry (asymmetry indices ≥10%). Knee flexors (mean [SD]; 49.9 [37.8%]) and ankle plantar flexors (46.6 [35.5%]) had the largest asymmetry indices. Hip and knee extensors had the lowest asymmetry indices (21.1 [18.1%] and 30.1 [24.7%], respectively) and the highest agreement between self-reported and objectively-determined more-affected lower limb (93.3 and 93.8, respectively). The hip extensor asymmetry index was correlated with the Fatigue Severity Scale (r = 0.542, p = 0.037).InterpretationFor the assessment of strength asymmetries in people with multiple sclerosis, it is suggested to 1) include measures of hip, knee, and ankle strength asymmetries, 2) include subjective perceptions and objective measures of strength asymmetries concurrently, and 3) to include measures of sensory function (proprioception).     

Associations between functional capacity,isokinetic leg strength,sleep quality and cognitive function in multiple sclerosis patients: a cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT

Objectives: Recent evidence suggests an association between functional capacity and cognitive function, at least in older adults. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to examine the association between cognitive function, functional capacity, isokinetic leg strength, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), sleep quality, body fat, handgrip strength, and fatigue among a sample of MS patients.

Methods: Fifty-one relapsing-remitting MS patients (age: 38.4 ± 7.1 yrs; 30 females) were recruited and agreed to participate in this study. Cognitive function was assessed by the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT). Functional capacity was examined using various functional tests commonly used in MS patients. Maximal voluntary unilateral leg strength was assessed using isokinetic dynamometer. Isometric handgrip strength was assessed by a dynamometer. Total body and visceral fat levels were assessed via bioelectrical impedance analyzers. Finally, the patients’ HRQOL, sleep quality, and fatigue levels were evaluated using specific questionnaires.

Results: A significant association was found between the PASAT score and the performance score in various functional capacity tests (p < 0.050). On the other hand, a weak but statistically significant association was found between the PASAT score and isokinetic strength of knee extensors (r = 0.319, p = 0.022) and knee flexors (r = 0.354 p = 0.011). Poor sleep quality was associated with lower performance in all the functional capacity tests examined (p < 0.05) whilst was negatively associated with the PASAT score (r = ?0.334, p = 0.017). The multivariate regression analysis revealed that the performance on the TUG test was a significant predictor of cognitive function.

Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, functional capacity was found to be associated with both impaired cognitive performance and low HRQOL in MS patients. In addition, an association between sleep quality and cognitive performance was revealed, confirming existing literature. Functional capacity as assessed by the TUG test emerged as the best predictor of cognitive function.     

The influence of isokinetic peak torque and muscular power on the functional performance of active and inactive community-dwelling elderly: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo verify the importance of the isokinetic muscular torque and power of knee extensors and flexors on the functional performance of active and inactive elderly women.MethodsA cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 116 community-dwelling women (≥60 years old) without severe cognitive and/or motor dysfunction. Isokinetic muscle function was measured by peak torque and muscle power at 60°/s (5 repetitions) and 180°/s (15 repetitions), respectively. Mobility was evaluated by means of the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) and the Habitual Gait Speed (HGS) test. Balance was evaluated via the alternate step and semitandem tests. Lower limb strength was assessed using the Sit-to-stand test. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine association between independent and dependent variables (α = 0.05).ResultActive elderly women had better muscle function and functional performance than inactive elderly women for almost all variables. Peak torque and muscular power of knee extensor muscles explained the dynamic balance, mobility, and lower limb strength among inactive elderly women (OR: 0.89–0.95; p < 0.05). Muscular power of knee flexors influenced tasks that required mobility and lower limb strength among active elderly (OR: 0.82–0.87; p < 0.05).ConclusionsThe muscular power of knee flexors was shown to be more important for the functional performance of active elderly women. The muscular power of knee extensors had a stronger influence on the performance of the inactive elderly women.     

Effect of wrist positioning on isokinetic performance and repeatability of measurement for wrist flexors and extensors

This study tested the repeatability and effects of two wrist positions on isokinetic peak torque and average work of wrist flexion and extension movements. Fifteen healthy adult males were tested twice, one week apart, with a Dexter TradeStation at two testing speeds of 60°/s and 180°/s. The wrist positions were: 1) neutral radial/ulnar deviation (RUD), and 2) 15° ulnar deviation (UD). Results showed good repeatability for isokinetic measurements of both the flexors and extensors (ICC 0:7042 -0.9367). Due to a significant interaction between wrist position and testing speed in the 2-way ANOVA analysis, paired t -tests were used to analyze the factors separately. The results showed that both isokinetic peak torque and the average work of wrist flexion and extension at 15° UD were greater than that measured with neutral RUD (p &lt; 0:0005). This finding has clinical implications for testing and rehabilitation of wrist and hand functions. The good reliability of the results suggests that isokinetic testing can be used to assess the progress of change in muscle performance of patients. In planning for hand rehabilitation exercises, therapists can adopt the position that is most facilitative for the muscle action.     

Test-retest reliability and responsiveness of isokinetic dynamometry to assess wrist flexor muscle spasticity in subacute post-stroke hemiparesis

IntroductionTo overcome the limitations of clinical scales, objective measurement methods are becoming prominent in spasticity assessment. The aim of this study was to assess the test–retest reliability and responsiveness of isokinetic dynamometry to evaluate wrist flexor spasticity in patients with subacute stroke.MethodsTwenty six patients with hemiparetic stroke (13 men, 13 women, mean age 51.38 ± 12.64 years) volunteered to take part in this study. Resistive torque in the wrist flexor muscles was measured twice, 1 day apart, with an isokinetic dynamometer. Wrist extension was tested at four speeds (5, 60, 120 and 180°/s). Torque response at the lowest speed (5°/s) was attributed to the non-neural component of the wrist flexor muscles, and was subtracted from the torque response at the higher speeds to calculate reflex torque (spasticity). The reliability of reflex torque measurements at 60, 120 and 180°/s was evaluated with the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC_2,1) and standard error of measurement (SEM and SEM%), which reflect reproducibility and measurement error, respectively. Responsiveness was calculated as the smallest real difference (SRD and SRD%).ResultsReproducibility was excellent at different movement speeds (ICC_{2, 1} 0.76–0.85). SEM% ranged from 11% to 21%, and SRD% ranged from 30% to 58%. ICC values increased, and SEM% and SRD% decreased, as test speed increased.ConclusionOur results support the reliability and responsiveness of isokinetic dynamometry to quantify spasticity in wrist flexor muscles in patients with subacute stroke. Reliability and responsiveness increased as the speed of wrist movement increased.     

关节镜术后等速训练对膝半月板损伤恢复的影响

背景:运动损伤后的康复训练是保持和减缓运动能力的重要途径,开展此领域的研究具有重要意义。目的:观察膝半月板损伤施以关节镜手术后,等速训练对膝关节功能恢复及关节周围肌肉力量的影响。设计:病例-对照观察。单位:辽宁警官高等专科学校警训系。对象:于2004-09/2005-01选择大连医科大学附属医院外科收治的单侧膝关节半月板急性损伤患者22例为观察对象。随机数字表法分为实验组和对照组,各11例。方法:实验组和对照组患者进行关节镜手术治疗,对照组进行常规封闭、理疗、按摩等方法恢复。实验组患者术后第2～4天开始功能恢复,3周后采用Cybex-6000型等速运动测试仪对患侧膝屈伸肌进行等速运动训练。主要观察指标:不同测试速度[60,120,180(°)/s]时的屈伸肌峰力矩、单次最大做功量、力矩加速能、平均功率。结果:纳入患者22例,均进入结果分析。①关节镜手术配合等速肌力训练后,膝关节运动范围加大,训练前患膝的最大屈曲角度为(132±25)°,训练后患膝的最大屈曲角度为(158±21)°,经配对t检验,两者差异有非常显著性意义(P<0.01)。而对照组手术后最大屈曲角度为(133±31)°,实验结束后最大屈曲角度为(139±34)°,差异无显著性意义(P>0.05)。且两组实验后差异有显著性意义(P<0.05)。②实验组膝屈伸肌峰力矩、单次最大做功量、力矩加速能及平均功率在60,120,180(°)/s的变化与对照组相比差异均有显著性意义(P<0.05)。结论:膝关节等速训练,可加速膝半月板损伤后的康复过程,对增加膝关节周围肌肉力量、保持膝关节的稳定性和运动能力均具有重要的意义。     

膝骨关节炎患者膝屈伸肌群等速肌力及其与功能的相关性

目的观察膝关节骨关节炎(KOA)患者膝屈伸肌群等速肌力变化及其与膝关节功能的关系。方法23 例双侧KOA患者及14 名正常人进行膝屈伸肌等速肌力检查、五次坐-起试验(FTSST)、静态平衡测试、步态分析。KOA组还完成疼痛视觉模拟评分(VAS)及WOMAC骨关节炎指数评定。结果KOA组伸肌及屈肌峰力矩、峰力矩均值、平均功率、单次最佳做功及总功主患侧均小于对侧(P<0.05);峰力矩屈肌/伸肌(H/Q)百分比主患侧大于对侧(P<0.05)。组间比较,伸肌所有观察指标、屈肌平均功率KOA组均小于正常对照组(P<0.05);峰力矩H/Q 百分比KOA组大于正常对照组(P<0.05)。KOA组伸肌等速肌力峰力矩与FTSST、步行速度、步行距离、跌倒指数、VAS 评分、WOMAC-疼痛评分之间存在相关性(P<0.05),屈肌等速肌力峰力矩与FTSST、步态参数、跌倒指数、VAS评分、WOMAC评分之间无明显相关性(P>0.05)。结论KOA患者伸肌及屈肌等速肌力主患侧较对侧减弱,伸肌等速肌力较正常人减弱,膝伸屈肌肌力变化不同步。KOA患者伸肌等速肌力峰力矩与膝关节疼痛、功能之间存在相关性。     

Reproducibility of the time to peak torque and the joint angle at peak torque on knee of young sportsmen on the isokinetic dynamometer

BackgroundAlthough peak torque has shown acceptable reproducibility, this may not be the case with two other often used parameters: time to peak torque (TPT) and the angle of peak torque (APT). Those two parameters should be used for the characterization of muscular adaptations in athletes.MethodsThe isokinetic performance of the knee extensors and flexors in both limbs was measured in 29 male athletes. The experimental protocol consisted of three consecutive identical paradigms separated by 45 min breaks. Each test consisted of four maximal concentric efforts performed at 60 and 180°/s. Reproducibility was quantified by the standard error measurement (SEM), the coefficient of variation (CV) and by means of intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs) with the calculation of 6 forms of ICCs.ResultsUsing ICC as the indicator of reproducibility, the correlations for TPT of both limbs showed a range of 0.51–0.65 in extension and 0.50–0.63 in flexion. For APT, the values were 0.46–0.60 and 0.51–0.81, respectively. In addition, the calculated standard error of measurement (SEM) and CV scores confirmed the low level of absolute reproducibility.ConclusionsDue to their low reproducibility, neither TPT nor APT can serve as independent isokinetic parameters of knee flexor and extensor performance. So, given its reproducibility level, TPT and APT should not be used for the characterization of muscular adaptations in athletes.     

Determining the number of repetitions to establish isokinetic knee evaluation protocols specific to angular velocities of 60°/second and 180°/second

IntroductionThis study aims to develop a standard number of repetition at angular velocities of 60°/sec and 180°/sec and define the difference of number of repetitions between genders.MethodOne hundred ninety-six athletes (judo, volleyball, Greco-Roman wrestling, runners, and gymnastics) were involved. Concentric-concentric isokinetic muscle strength of the knee flexor-extensor muscles of the athletes were performed with an ISOMED 2000 isokinetic dynamometer. The evaluation test protocol consisted of 10 repetition of knee flexion-extension at 60°/sec and 30 repetitions at 180°/sec.ResultsAthletes performed with maximal knee flexion strength at their second and third trial at 60°/sec and third-forth trial at 180°/sec. It was found that 2 repetitions and 2–3 repetitions were needed for knee extension peak torque at 60°/sec and 180°/sec respectively. The difference between the genders was significant at 60°/sec for knee flexion and extension on the dominant side; at 180°/sec for knee extension on the dominant and non-dominant side. It was determined that 3 repetitions for 60°/sec, 4 repetitions for 180°/sec were enough to determine peak torque values.DiscussionOptimal number of repetitions is crucial so that athletes could have the opportunity to reach maximal strength without unnecessary workload or waste of time.ConclusionsProtocols involving 3 repetitions for 60°/sec, 4 repetitions for 180°/sec were enough to determine peak torque values. Gender of athletes should be considered when establishing isokinetic knee evaluation protocols.     

Relationship between strength and functional indexes (Rowe and Walch-Duplay scores) after shoulder surgical stabilization by the Latarjet technique

IntroductionThe rotator cuff muscles help stabilize the glenohumeral joint. Postoperative recovery of rotator cuff muscle strength appears to be an important factor for optimal joint stabilization and the resumption of professional and/or sports activities.ObjectiveTo study the relationship between internal rotator (IR) and external rotator (ER) muscle strength, shoulder function and the resumption of sports activities (as typically evaluated with functional scores) following surgical stabilization with the Bristow-Latarjet procedure in cases of chronic shoulder instability.Patients and methodsTwenty patients with anterior, post-traumatic, chronic shoulder instability were included prospectively in a cohort study. The Rowe and Walch-Duplay functional scores were rated for the operated shoulder and the isokinetic IR and ER peak torque values were evaluated with a Con-Trex^® dynamometer before surgery and then 3, 6 and 21 months afterwards. The isokinetic evaluation was performed (at 180°/s, 120°/s and 60°/s) in the seated position, with the arms in 45° of abduction and 30° of antepulsion in the plane of the scapula.ResultsThere were no significant postoperative correlations between shoulder function (as judged by the Rowe and Walch-Duplay scores) and IR or ER muscle strength.ConclusionThis study did not provide evidence for a correlation between IR and ER muscle strength and functional scores after surgical stabilization of the shoulder. However, it is necessary to objectively measure the rotator cuff strength recovery to adequate the strengthening of rotator muscle prior to the resumption of sports activities. Isokinetic strength assessment may thus be a valuable decision support tool for the resumption of sports activities and would complement the functional scores studied here.     

Improvement of isokinetic knee extensor strength and reduction of postural sway in the elderly from long-term Tai Chi exercise

OBJECTIVES: To compare isokinetic strength of leg muscles and foot center of pressure (COP) as a measure of sway between long-term Tai Chi practitioners and controls. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Community setting. PARTICIPANTS: Twenty subjects in the Tai Chi group and 19 subjects in the control group (age, >55 y). INTERVENTION: Subjects in Tai Chi group had practiced Tai Chi for a minimum of 3 years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Concentric and eccentric strength of knee extensors and flexors at 60 degrees/s and 120 degrees/s, and foot COP displacement during quiet stance with eyes open or closed. RESULTS: People in the Tai Chi group had significantly higher knee extensor strength at all speeds tested (P<.013), and smaller foot COP excursions for both eyes open and eyes closed conditions (P<.05) than people in control group. No significant difference existed in knee flexors between the 2 groups (P<.713). The COP excursions correlated significantly with the eccentric strength of knee extensors (P<.07) but not with the concentric strength of knee extensors (P<.14) or with the isokinetic strength of knee flexors at most of the speeds (P<.27). CONCLUSION: These findings support the hypothesis that the maintenance of eccentric strength of postural muscles in the lower extremities, which is beneficial for maintaining good postural stability, is helped through the long-term practice of Tai Chi.     

Isokinetic testing of quadriceps function in COPD: feasibility,responsiveness, and minimal important differences in patients undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation

BackgroundIsokinetic testing of peripheral muscle function is valid and reliable in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).ObjectiveTo evaluate whether and to what extent isokinetic testing of quadriceps function meets pre-defined test criteria in patients with COPD; to determine the response to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), and to calculate minimal important differences (MIDs) of isokinetic quadriceps function.MethodsRetrospective analysis of 2033 patients with COPD (age: 65±9 years, body mass index: 26±6 kg/m², FEV₁: 49±22% predicted) who followed a comprehensive PR program. Pre and post PR isokinetic quadriceps function was assessed with 30 maximal extension-flexion contractions at an angular speed of 90°/s on a computerized dynamometer. The chosen anchors were 6-min walk test and COPD assessment test.ResultsPre PR, 27% of the patients performed the isokinetic test incorrectly. In male and female patients with a correct pre and post PR isokinetic test, peak torque (Δ=10±13 Nm or 9% and Δ=7±9 Nm or 10%, respectively) and total work (Δ=263±270 J or 14% and Δ=198±190 J or 15%, respectively) improved significantly. There was no change in work fatigue index following PR. Using distribution-based calculations, MID estimates for peak torque and total work ranged between 6–7 Nm and 97–135 J in males and between 4–5 Nm and 62–99 J in females.ConclusionsBased on the current test criteria, three in four patients with COPD performed the isokinetic quadriceps test correctly during baseline PR assessment. Furthermore, peak torque and total work, but not work fatigue index, were responsive to PR and sex-specific MIDs were established.     

Effects of squat lift training and free weight muscle training on maximum lifting load and isolinetic peak torque of young adults without impairments

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Manual lifting is a frequent cause of back injury, and there is no evidence as to which training mode can provide the best training effect for lifting performance and muscle force. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a squat lift training and a free weight muscle training program on the maximum lifting load and isokinetic peak torque in subjects without known neuromuscular or musculoskeletal impairments. SUBJECTS: Thirty-six adults (20 male, 16 female) without known neuromuscular or musculoskeletal impairments participated. The subjects' mean age was 21.25 years (SD=1.16, range=20-24). METHODS: Subjects were divided into 3 groups. Subjects in group 1 (n=12) performed squat lift training. Subjects in group 2 (n=12) participated in free weight resistance training of their shoulder abductors, elbow flexors, knee extensors and trunk extensors. Subjects in group 3 (n=12) served as controls. The maximum lifting load and isokinetic peak torques of the trunk extensors, knee extensors, elbow flexors, and shoulder abductors of each subject were measured before and after the study. Training was conducted on alternate days for 4 weeks, with an initial load of 80% of each subject's maximum capacity and with the load increased by 5% weekly. RESULTS: All groups were comparable for all measured variables before the study. After 4 weeks, subjects in groups 1 and 2 demonstrated more improvement in maximum lifting load and isokinetic peak torque of the back extensors compared with the subjects in group 3, but the 2 training groups were not different. CONCLUSION AND DISCUSSION: The findings demonstrate that both squat lift and free weight resistance training are equally effective in improving the lifting load and isokinetic back extension performance of individuals without impairments.