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  • Differences in Knee Extenso...
    Cesanelli, Leonardo; Kamandulis, Sigitas; Eimantas, Nerijus; Satkunskiene, Danguole

    Journal of applied biomechanics, 12/2022, Letnik: 38, Številka: 6
    Journal Article

    To describe the possible effects of chronic specific exercise training, the present study compared the anthropometric variables, muscle–tendon unit (MTU) architecture, passive stiffness, and force production capacity between a group of competitive cyclists and runners. Twenty-seven competitive male cyclists (n = 16) and runners (n = 11) participated. B-mode ultrasound evaluation of the vastus lateralis muscle and patellar tendon as well as passive stiffness of the knee extensors MTU were assessed. The athletes then performed a test of knee extensor maximal voluntary isometric contractions. Cyclists displayed greater thigh girths, vastus lateralis pennation angle and muscle thickness, patellar tendon cross-sectional area, and MTU passive stiffness than runners ( P  < .05). Knee extensor force production capacity also differed significantly, with cyclists showing greater values compared with runners ( P  < .05). Overall, the direct comparison of these 2 populations revealed specific differences in the MTU, conceivably related to the chronic requirements imposed through the training for the different disciplines.