Effects of supramaximal exercise on the electromyographic signal

Citation

Hunter A, Gibson ASC, Lambert M, Nobbs LA & Noakes TD (2003) Effects of supramaximal exercise on the electromyographic signal. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 37 (4), pp. 296-299. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.37.4.296

Abstract
Aim: To determine the neuromuscular recruitment characteristics during supramaximal exercise. Methods: Ten healthy subjects completed the Wingate anaerobic test (WAT) cycling protocol. Electromyographic (EMG) data and rate of fatigue were recorded throughout the cycling. Results: The mean (SD) rate of fatigue (decrease in power output) was 44.5 (8.6)%. No significant change was found in EMG amplitude. A significant decrease (p less than 0.01) in mean power frequency spectrum was found over the 30 second period. Conclusions: During WAT, mean power frequency spectrum was attenuated with no decline in EMG amplitude, which may be caused by an accumulation of metabolites in the periphery. However, it is also possible that the feedback loop from intramuscular metabolism to the central nervous system is unable, within the 30 second period of the WAT, to affect neural recruitment strategy.

Keywords
; Physical education and training; Muscle strength; Physical fitness; Physiological aspects; Physical Education and Training methods; Athletic Performance physiology

Journal
British Journal of Sports Medicine: Volume 37, Issue 4

People

Professor Angus Hunter

Honorary Professor, FHSS Management and Support