Abstract

The present study compares the effectiveness of isotonic and isokinetic exercises on peak torque of quadriceps in 45 healthy young males. The subjects were randomly assigned into three groups (n=15): group A – isotonic group, group B – isokinetic group, group C – control group. Peak torque of quadriceps at velocities of 220 and 100°/s was tested twice with a gap of 4 weeks using isokinetic dynamometer. Isotonic protocol included three sets of 10 repetitions at 50% 10 RM, 75% 10 RM and 100% 10 RM. The isokinetic protocol consisted of one set of 10 repetitions at velocities of 220, 160, 100 and 40°/s each. Each exercise protocol was performed thrice a week for 4 weeks with 1-min rest interval. The subjects in the control group were not prescribed any kind of exercise training. Paired t test showed significant changes at 220°/s (t=4.62, p<0.001) and 100°/s (t=2.49, p<0.05) in group A, at 220°/s (t=3.42, p<0.05) in group B and non-significant changes at 220°/s (t=2.02, p>0.05) and 100°/s (t=0.82, p>0.05) in group C. Post-test one-way analysis of variance revealed significant changes at 220°/s (F= 4.47, p<0.05). Isotonic exercises were found to be more effective than isokinetic exercises in increasing the peak torque at high velocity.