Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Centre for Human Performance
Strength and muscle function assessment of the knee and ankle of elite race walkers
The aim of this study is to measure muscle function in the knee and ankle prime movers for flexion and extension using isokinetic dynamometry and ultrasound measurements.
The Challenge
Race walkers must not have any visible loss of contact with the ground and their knee must be straightened from the moment of first contact with the ground until the ‘vertical upright position’. This abnormal movement of the knee might be responsible for the particular injuries experienced by race walkers. It also means there is a shift in the responsibility of muscle groups to produce forward momentum compared with running.
The Approach
Competitive race walkers have undertaken one visit to the biomechanics laboratory at Leeds Beckett University. Participants completed a series of static ultrasound measurements focusing on the knee flexors and extensors and the ankle plantar flexors and dorsi flexors. Furthermore, a series of maximal isometric and isokinetic contractions were completed on an isokinetic dynamometer to quantify the strength characteristics of the knee and ankle musculature.
The Impact
The project will provide an insight into the lower-body adaptations resulting from competitive race walking. Information on the strength balance around the knee and ankle joint will inform strength and conditioning programmes aimed at optimising performance and reducing injury. Furthermore, reference strength data will be generated providing a much-needed benchmark for existing monitoring and screening protocols.
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