Vastus medialis activation during knee extension exercises: evidence for exercise prescription.

Bolgla LA, Shaffer SW, Malone TR

The objective of this studt was to compare vastus medialis (VM) activation during a SLR and weight bearing exercises. Fifteen healthy subjects had electromyographic amplitudes for the VM expressed as a percent maximum voluntary isometric contraction measured during one SLR exercise and 6 weight-bearing knee extension exercises. The SLR had greater activation than the single leg stance and bilateral squat exercises. The step-up and unilateral leg press exercises had the greatest activation.

SLR performance can be an important indicator for exercise progression. These results provide foundational knowledge to assist clinicians with exercise prescription.

Journal of Sports Rehabilitation, 2008, 17(1), 1-10

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