The effects of gender and very short-term resistance training on peak torque, average power and neuromuscular responses of the forearm flexors

OBJECTIVE: This study examined the effects of sex on peak torque (PT), average power (AP), and the time (AMP) and frequency (MPF) domain parameters of the electromyographic (EMG) and mechanomyographic (MMG) signals following very short-term resistance training (VST) of the forearm flexors. Based on the results of previous studies it was hypothesized that three training sessions would increase PT, EMG MPF, and MMG MPF of the forearm flexors at 60 and 180 ◦ /s in men only, without changes to AP, EMG AMP, or MMG AMP for either men or women. METHODS: Nine men and nine women completed two pretests, three training sessions, and a posttest that included concentric isokinetic muscle actions of the forearm flexors at 60 and 180 ◦ /s. The AMP and MPF of the EMG and MMG signals were recorded from the biceps brachii. RESULTS: The results indicate increases in PT, AP, and MMG AMP at 60 and 180 ◦ /s for the men only, but no changes in EMG AMP, EMG MPF, or MMG MPF for either the men or women. CONCLUSION: There were gender differences in the PT and AP responses to VST of the forearm flexors that were not associated with increased agonist muscle activation. These findings have implications for the development of gender-specific VST programs for the forearm flexors in clinical settings.