A sport massage was applied between the sets of an intense isokinetic exercise protocol for knee extensor muscles

the break between the sets of an intense isokinetic exercise protocol for knee extensor muscles was passive

The isokinetic protocol included 6 sets of 10 maximum efforts at 60 °/s of one leg with a 2-minute break between the sets.

The ROM of knee flexion and extension was measured before and after the exercise program application in both trials. In particular, the active knee extension was measured in the supine position and the active flexion in the prone position using a universal type goniometer.

Blood samples were taken before and 24 hours after the isokinetic protocol to determine whether the exercise program caused fatigue and muscle damage. The blood sample was analyzed to determine CK activity levels in blood plasma using an in-vitro quantitative assay followed by a photometer

The circumference of the thigh was measured with a tape measure before the test and after the exercise program at fixed spots at a distance of 10 and 20 cm from the center of the patella

The DOMS measurement for the lower extremities (L-DOMS) was performed with the VAS scale 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after the completion of the program. The VAS scale was tentative where 1 corresponded to "no soreness" and 10 to "very, very sore". The L-DOMS was assessed according to Doma et al1,22 and according to Jakeman et al, through questioning after they completed a body weight squat until their knees were flexed to approximately 90°

During the baseline testing session, the maximum concentric and eccentric torque of knee extensors at 60 °/s was measured with the Cybex Norm.The participant then sat in the armchair of the isokinetic dynamometer with his arms crossed in the chest. Two crossed straps held the torso firmly on the back of the armchair and a belt with an additional strap held the pelvis still. Each participant performed 3 maximal efforts with each leg and the best of the 3 efforts was recorded.