The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of a 4-week electromyostimulation
training program on the strength of the knee extensors and the vertical jump performance
of 10 basketball players. Electromyostimulation sessions were carried out 3 times
weekly; each session consisted of 48 contractions. Testing was carried out before
and after the electromyostimulation training program (week 4) and once more after
4 weeks of normal basketball training (week 8). At week 4, isokinetic strength increased
significantly (p < 0.05) at eccentric and high concentric velocities (between 180
and 360 ° × s-1); this was not the case for low concentric velocities (60 and 120 ° × s-1). Electromyostimulation training increased also isometric strength at the two angles
adjacent to the training angle (p < 0.01). Squat jump increased significantly by 14
% at week 4 (p < 0.01), whereas counter movement jump showed no change. At week 8,
gains in isokinetic, isometric strength and squat jump performance were maintained
and the counter movement jump performance increased significantly by 17 % (p < 0.01).
Electromyostimulation as part of a short strength-training program enhanced knee extensor
strength and squat jump performance of basketball players.
Isokinetic dynamometer, isometric strength, knee extensors, strength training, squat
jump, counter movement jump.
