CENTRAL AND PERIPHERAL FATIGUE IN WOMEN ATHLETES

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the EMG activity in central and peripheral fatigue protocols with the knee’s dynamic stabilizers. Twelve women in the central fatigue group completed a soccer game simulation protocol, while 13 women completed a maximal weight lifting protocol. EMG of the rectus and bicep femoris were taken in a rested and fatigued state. A repeated measures 2x2 ANOVA (α = 0.05) were used for comparison of average rectified values (ARV) and frequency data. The rectus femoris saw decreases in ARV and increases in frequency with fatigue with both central and peripheral fatigue. The bicep femoris had decreases in ARV and frequency with fatigue in central fatigue, while with peripheral fatigue both ARV and frequency increased.