Relationship between knee isokinetic muscle strength and countermovement jump height among elite male gymnasts.

Abstract

Introduction: This study quantifies the isokinetic knee strength of elite male gymnasts and examines the relationship between concentric extensor strength, limb asymmetry, and countermovement jump (CMJ) height.

Methods: A total of 18 elite male gymnasts participated in isokinetic strength testing, assessing concentric and eccentric actions during both extension and flexion of the knee at joint angular velocities of 60°/s, 180°/s, and 240°/s. Relative peak torque (RPT) of the knee flexors and extensors, the functional eccentric hamstring/concentric quadriceps (H_ecc/Q_con) ratio, and the inter-limb asymmetries were analyzed. CMJ height was assessed using a contact mat, and the relationship between concentric extensor RPT and limb asymmetries with CMJ height was analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients analysis.

Results: At an angular velocity of 180°/s, both an abnormal limb asymmetries in the concentric extensors was observed and the strongest negative correlation with CMJ height (r = -0.638, p < 0.05) was found. At an angular velocity of 240°/s, knee extensor strength demonstrated the strongest correlation with CMJ height (r = 0.962, P < 0.001).

Discussion: Therefore, we recommend that gymnasts conduct regular isokinetic strength assessments, particularly focusing on concentric knee extensor strength and limb asymmetries, as they exhibit moderate to high correlations with CMJ height.