Comparison and Analysis of Isokinetic Strength in Elite Junior Triathletes and Cyclists

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze and compare differences in the peak torque, peak power, hamstring/quadriceps muscles ratio and range of motion between Turkey National Junior Team cyclists and triathletes. Seven triathletes (age 16.88±0.64 yr) and 8 cyclists (age 17.38±0.52 yr) were recruited to the study. Measurements of lower-extremity knee-joint movement were made with an isokinetic dynamometer at velocities 60 and 240°·s-1. No significant differences were noted between the groups in the right hamstring and quadriceps at velocities of 60°.s-1 and 240°.s-1. However, a significant difference was observed between the left limbs of the athletes at a velocity of 60°.s-1 in the hamstring PT, the hamstring average curve, the hamstring/quadriceps ratio and the hamstring/weight ratio. The cyclists exhibited higher differences compared to the triathletes in hamstring/weight, quadriceps/weight, hamstring peak torque, hamstring peak torque angle, hamstring average curve, hamstring peak power, hamstring average power, quadriceps peak torque and quadriceps average curve of the left limbs at a velocity of 240°.s-1. The triathletes' left and right limb range of motion was significantly increased compared with the cyclists’ left and right limbs at a velocity of 240°.s-1. In conclusion, cyclists produced isokinetic strength at shorter hamstring and quadriceps muscle fiber lengths and larger peak torque angles compared with triathletes.