Static Strength Increase and Its Effect upon Triceps Surae Reflex Time

Abstract

This study was to investigate the effect of increased muscle strength on the duration of the triceps surae reflex time. Subjects were 60 students within the age range of 18 to 20 years. The subjects were divided into two groups of equal size—a control and an experimental group. The experimental group performed isometric and isotonic plantar flexor muscle resistance exercises for 40 min. twice a week for a period of 6 weeks. The subjects were tested for plantar flexor static strength and triceps surae reflex time at approximately the same time of day prior to, and at the termination of, the training period. For the experimental group, the statistical analysis revealed a significant decrease in the triceps surae reflex time following strength training. The results of this study appear to warrant the conclusion that an increase in static strength through training has a significant shortening effect upon the triceps surae reflex time.