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Comparative study of the biomechanical parameters during the concentric phase of the semi squat performed with and without elastic bands as variable resistance (Bachelor thesis)

Καλλέργης, Γεώργιος/ Kallergis, Georgios

The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether performing half squats with resistance bands as a form of variable resistance leads to significant biomechanical differences compared to constant resistance. Twenty healthy male undergraduate students participated in the study, each performing one set of five repetitions at 70% of 1RM (free weights), one set at 70% of 1RM with an additional 25% band resistance applied at the top position of the range of motion, and one set at 70% of 1RM with an additional 25% band resistance applied at the bottom position. Two force plates, ten Vicon infrared cameras, and a Noraxon wireless electromyograph were used for data collection. The results showed that performing half squats with bands applied in the lower position increased joint torque in the lower limbs compared to constant resistance, reaching levels similar to maximal effort (1RM) but with greater angular velocity (p < 0.05). Conversely, no significant differences were found in muscle activity among the different conditions (p > 0.05). In conclusion, performing half squats with bands applied in the lower position appears to be an effective method for power training, as it combines high force production with increased movement speed compared to constant resistance.