Wrist stabilisation and forearm muscle coactivation during freestyle swimming

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the stabilisation of the wrist joint and the ad hoc wrist muscles activations during the two principal phases of the freestyle stroke. Seven male international swimmers performed a maximal semi-tethered power test. A swimming ergometer fixed on the star...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of electromyography and kinesiology 2007-06, Vol.17 (3), p.285-291
Main Authors: Caty, V, Aujouannet, Y, Hintzy, F, Bonifazi, M, Clarys, J.P, Rouard, A.H
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Coactivation
Electromyography
Forearm - physiology
Humans
Male
Muscle, Skeletal - physiology
Phases
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Stabilisation
Swimming
Swimming - physiology
Wrist
Wrist Joint - physiology
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Summary:Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the stabilisation of the wrist joint and the ad hoc wrist muscles activations during the two principal phases of the freestyle stroke. Seven male international swimmers performed a maximal semi-tethered power test. A swimming ergometer fixed on the start area of the pool was used to collect maximal power. The electromyography signal (EMG) of the right flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) and extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) was recorded with surface electrodes and processed using the integrated EMG (IEMG). Frontal and sagittal video views were digitised frame by frame to determine the wrist angle in the sagittal plane and the principal phases of the stroke (insweep, outsweep). Important stabilisation of the wrist and high antagonist muscle activity were observed during the insweep phase due to the great mechanical constraints. In outsweep, less stabilisation and lower antagonist activities were noted. Factors affecting coactivations in elementary movements, e.g. intensity and instability of the load, accuracy and economy of the movement were confirmed in complex aquatic movement.
ISSN:1050-6411
1873-5711
DOI:10.1016/j.jelekin.2006.02.005