In our last article on the squat, we will look at how different depths, foot position, and bar position affects muscle activity of the lower limb. To determine what muscles are active during the squat or for any exercise for that matter, researchers use a device known as “Electromyography” or EMG. EMG evaluates and records.. read more
In our last article we looked at the difference between partial range and full range of motion squats, in this article we will look at the impact squatting has on joint forces in the lower limbs. In a review of the biomechanics of squat, Escamilla 2001 describes the forces and muscle activity involved in the.. read more
The squat is a well-known exercise for the knee and hip muscles and is commonly used in rehab programmes. Biomechanically, the squat is a close-chain movement, requiring simultaneous extension patterns of the ankle, knee and hip joints. The squat can be performed in many different ways, including variations in foot width (sumo squats), foot position.. read more
Last week we discussed the link between eccentric strength, the stretch shortening cycle and functional training. This week we will look at training methods that develop speed. Speed is often developed with traditional based training modalities such as outdoor sprint training, however, speed can also be developed through the use of resistance based exercises. Effective.. read more
According to Boyle (2016) a functional training program should prepare an athlete to play for his/her sport, with a strong focus on training movements, not muscles. It’s important though, to maintain a balanced perspective on functional training, and not assume just because an exercise is not performed in a three-dimensional space, it is not functional... read more