Neuromuscular characteristics of elite and age groups triathletes from world multisport championships
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This study aimed to (1) characterize the contractile properties of the main muscles involved in the World Triathlon disciplines; (2) determine to what extent sex and specialization influences neuromuscular characteristics; (3) establish lateral asymmetry profile of athletes’ contractile properties. 51 aquathlon, duathlon, cross and long-distance triathletes were assessed through Countermovement Jump (CMJ) and a muscle contractile properties assessment in rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), vastus medialis (VM) and biceps femoris (BF) using tensiomyography prior to the Multisport World Championship. Female triathletes showed a lower CMJ ability than male triathletes in all disciplines (p = .017; ηp2 = 0.152), with no differences between disciplines. Females showed a lower contraction time (Tc) in right VM (p = .014; ηp2 = 0.162). Small differences were found in contractile properties between disciplines. In conclusion, no significant sex o discipline differences were found in multisport athletes’ contractile properties, although women exhibited significant lower jumping ability and greater asymmetry than males in the Tc of the VM. These results provide reference values for different triathlon disciplines that can be of great importance for improving performance and to prevent injuries upon knowing the sport asymmetry profile.
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