Establishing scientific foundations for eccentric quasi-isometric resistance training

Lately, a novel exercise training method, termed eccentric-quasi-isometric training (EQI), has been gaining in popularity. EQI combines features of isometric and eccentric exercise. The simplest way to describe EQI contractions is holding a position until isometric failure and maximally resist the subsequent eccentric phase. The theoretical basis for the use of EQI is well established, and some short-term advantages over eccentric exercise (e.g., less muscle soreness and lower impairment in neuromuscular performance) have been demonstrated. However, some fundamental questions remain unexplored: what are the kinematic and kinetic characteristics of EQI multi-joint exercises? How do the short- and, more importantly, long-term effects of EQI training compare to the effects of comparable eccentric training? This project will establish evidence-based foundations that can be used for further intervention research and practical application. Thus, the overarching purpose of this project is to investigate a EQI. The specific objectives of this project are to a) assess the kinetic and kinematic characteristics of selected EQI exercises and b) compare the short-term and long-term effects of EQI with comparable isometric and eccentric exercise protocols on muscle architecture, neuromuscular performance and participants’ subjective responses. Both single-joint open chain (e.g., knee flexion and extension) and close chain (e.g., ankle plantarflexion during standing), as well as multi-joint (e.g. supported bent rowing), will be investigated. The project program includes 5 work packages (WP). WP2, WP3 and WP4 contain the main research activities, while WP1 and WP5 are dedicated to project management and dissemination and promotion. The research will be carried out in 3 phases (one WP each) to achieve the project objectives: in WP2, we will perform pilot experiments (performing different EQI exercises with 1-3 participants, trying out different exercise variants); in WP3 we will assess biomechanical characteristics of EQI (measurements of temporal, kinematic and kinetic characteristics); in WP4 we will evaluate the effect of EQI training (assessing both acute and chronic effects of EQI, in comparison to a similar eccentric and isometric exercise protocol). The EQI training method will potentially help people of different ages and fitness levels. EQI could be used with athletes to prevent and treat injuries. It could also be effective in rehabilitating musculoskeletal injuries in the general population. Finally, EQI could be used to maintain physical function in older adults. This project will provide the foundation upon which these aspects will be addressed in the future.