KINEMATIC AND ELECTROMYOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF UPPER EXTREMITY IN ARM WRESTLING

Abstract

Few studies of the kinematic features of arm wrestling exercise have been published. The purpose of this study was to initiate a concrete analysis of the kinematic characteristics and muscular activities involved in arm wrestling exercise. 12 healthy male volunteers were recruited in this study. The pectoralis major (PMJ) showed significantly higher muscle activity in winning position than in losing position (p=.039) and had significant influence on arm wrestling outcome (p<.01), but it did not have significant impact on the other three muscles. The flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) of winners showed higher muscle activity than losers. Our investigation revealed that PMJ was an important muscle in arm wrestling, and FCU may play key role in arm wrestling match to gain advantaged position.