Effects of Combining Eccentric and Aquatic Based Exercise on Muscle Function

Comparative Effects of Eccentric-driven Exercise on Measures of Muscle Function When Combined With Aquatic Plyometric Exercise

The study will compare the effects of eccentric resistance training versus eccentric training combined with aquatic plyometric training on muscle function outcomes.

This study will use a parallel, randomized group design. Two groups will be randomly formed with one group comprising an eccentric only resistance training condition (experimental control) and the other comprising an eccentric combined with aquatic-based plyometrics condition (experimental). All subjects, regardless of group, will train on a multiple-joint eccentric machine one time per week for 7 weeks. The combined group will also perform an aquatic-based exercise session one time (on a separate day from the eccentric training) per week. Muscle function will be assessed via a battery of tests including jumps, sprints, and isometric and eccentric maximal strength.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18 - 30 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently doing resistance exercise > 3 times per month or aerobic exercise at or more than 30 min, 5 days per week.
• Any lower limb injuries or surgery within a year of the study
• If any of the subject's are too tall for the Eccentron machine (>76 inches tall)
• If any of the subject's eccentric strength is measured to be greater than 725 pounds during the first test of eccentric strength.