High-Performance Sport

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze validity of BORG-Scale (6-20) while eccentric muscle activity. BORG-Scale is a very valid possibility to rate perceived exertion while concentric muscle activity. It allows to estimate heart rate and therefore stress for cardiovascular system in an easy applicable manner. Material and Methods: Twelve participants (28.610.3 years / 173.36.8 cm / 68.814.3 kg) absolved a training program on a softroboter. This consisted of a braking movement while four times 5 minutes with alternating right respectively left leg movements during nine sec eccentric muscle work with varying load (15, 25, 35, 45 kg) followed by a one sec lasting concentric back movement. During the program heart rate and BORG-scale was measured after 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Minutes for local exertion in the left respectively the right leg as well as in total. Results: Although in the here analyzed movements BORG-Scale was indicating alternating exertion, however the postulated relationship (heart rate=10 x BORG (6-20) - value) was not detectable. Limitations and Conclusions: The findings are explainable yet eccentric muscle activity is a Titin based and not O2 respectively ATP coupled contraction form. Therefore, with the same load in eccentric muscle activity only around one fourth O2is needed what probably affects perceived exertion accordingly. Furthermore, differences in the accuracy of perception between concentric and eccentric movements seem to exist. However, study was only conducted with 12 healthy participants, as a consequence only first hints can be made and no general recommendations. Measurements of O2, heart rate and EMG during the same protocol with larger samples could reveal more accurately factors determining rate of perceived exertion while eccentric muscle activity.KEY WORDS: Softroboter, Fall Prophylaxis, Cardiovascular Prevention, Rehabilitation