Reproducibility and estimation of muscular torque in athletes during maximal and submaximal efforts

The purpose of this study was to assess the reproducibility and estimation of maximal (MVC) and submaximal muscular torque. Eight volunteers performed knee extension movements on a dynamometer. After one practice session, 3 test sessions were performed at I and 7 day intervals. At each session, subjects performed maximally and submaximally (25, 50 and 75%) during isometric (45 degrees) and concentric actions at 90 and 300 degrees/s. The maximal muscular torques revealed no significant difference over the 3 test sessions. When estimating submaximal muscular torques, subjects correctly estimated torque percentages produced in the isometric action (except in the 75% MVC) and in dynamic action (except in the 90 degrees/s, 25% MVC). As for the stability of these estimations, subjects corrected the error in concentric actions evidencing the possible involvement of efferent copy that could enable a comparison between actual and perceived performance. On the other hand, the error in isometric actions was maintained pointing out to very limited use of this contraction mode in sporting activities.