Archives of Medicine and Health Sciences (Jan 2020)
The effect of strength training of the calf muscle pump on cardiovascular parameters
Abstract
Background: The heart pump allows blood to flow where the network of arteries, capillaries, and veins throughout the body regulates the rate of circulation of the blood. Parameters that determine the fitness level of the cardiovascular system include heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), VO2 max, fatigue, etc., The calf muscle pump is the most important of the lower limb, as it is the most efficient and has the largest capacitance. It has been suggested that increased leg strength, independent of cardiovascular training, may augment an aerobic endurance performance. Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the effect of strength training of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles on cardiovascular parameters. Materials and Methods: An experimental study carried out at MRIIRS Institution for 1 year. Forty-five recreational players aged between 20 and 30 years were selected after obtaining informed consent. Participants were divided equally into three groups by a convenient chit method. They were assessed for cardiovascular parameters of HR, BP, VO2 max, fatigue, and FI at baseline and after 8 weeks training program. Group A participated in gastrocnemius and soleus; Group B participated in gastrocnemius, and Group C participated in the soleus muscle training program. Results: Paired t-test for pre–post training shows a significant difference P < 0.05 for all the groups. ANOVA used between groups pre–post training were found to be significant for HR and systolic BP (SBP), and nonsignificant for diastolic BP (DBP) and VO2 max. Kruskal–Wallis test used between groups before and after training was found to be significant for fatigue and fitness index (FI). Jonckheere-trend test Post hoc analysis showed that Group A performed better than Group C and B. Wilcoxon signed-rank test for fatigue and FI showed a significant difference for all the groups. Conclusion: Eight weeks of leg muscle training on cardiovascular parameters have an effect on cardiovascular parameters of HR, SBP, FI, and fatigue. The results showed no significant effects on DBP and VO2 max.
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