Abstract
Objective: To compare the effects of isokinetic and isometric strength trainings on hamstring and quadriceps average-peak-torques, physical performance and pain.
Methodology: Twenty athletes with knee pain were randomly assigned to two equal groups: Isokinetic training and Isometric training. Both groups were trained on Biodex System 3 Pro for 10 sessions. Isokinetic-group received Isokinetic training on 5 different velocities while isometric-group performed isometric contractions at 3 knee joint angles.
Results: Hamstring isokinetic average-peak-torque was significantly higher at all velocities without significant improvement in quadriceps average-peak-torque except for at the slowest velocity. Isometric training did not cause significant change in isometric average-peak-torque at any knee angle for either hamstring or quadriceps. Agility, elastic leg strength, and pain improved significantly in both groups with no significant between-group differences. No significant statistical correlation was observed between pain and any other parameter after either type of training.
Conclusions: Athletes participating in sports requiring dynamic hamstring strength should prefer isokinetic strength training for physical rehabilitation of knee pain. However, physical performance and pain can be improved with both isometric and isokinetic strength training.