The effect of submaximal eccentric isokinetic training on strength and cross sectional area of the human achilles tendon

This study was designed to investigate the effects of six weeks submaximal eccentric training on concentric and eccentric isokinetic peak torque and cross sectional area (CSA) (muscle and tendon) of calf muscle. Six men and four women volunteered as subjects for this study.

Peak torque values for plantar flexion were determined at 30 $^{\circ}$ /s, 60 $^{\circ}$ /s and 90 $^{\circ}$ /s (concentric and eccentric) using a Cybex $^{\textregistered}$ Norm before the training, 3 weeks after the beginning and at the end of the sixth week.

Following training, peak torque increased in the concentric and eccentric modes in both the trained ( $p<0.001$ ) and untrained( $p<0.01$ ) side. No significant change in CSA was noted.

The results of this study indicate that after 6 weeks of submaximal eccentric training the strength gained was not completely specific to the contraction type used in training. Transfer of training took place. Neither muscle nor tendon hypertrophy was observed, suggesting the involvement of neural adaptation.