Acute Neuromuscular Fatigability and Perceived Exertion in High-Level University Pianists: An Electromyography and Maximum Force Capacity Study

Abstract

PURPOSE: Musicians are labelled ‘fine motor athletes’ due to the significant demands of practice and performance. In response, sports medical concepts and expertise have been adapted and mobilized to address musicians’ health considerations. However, understanding distinct differences between the sports and performing arts medical contexts is critical. Mismanagement of fatigue and acute fatigability are identified as key risk factors for deleterious symptoms and injuries in musicians. Acute fatigability in athletes and musicians have been assumed to occur similarly, although this has yet to be empirically demonstrated. This study aimed to evaluate acute muscular performance fatigability during piano performance of varied intensities. METHODS: Fourteen university pianists attended a single experimental session and performed three pieces of randomly ordered repertoire for 10 minutes each. Repertoire were self-selected to be physically easy (rating of perceived exertion [RPE] 9/20), somewhat hard (RPE 13/20), or hard (RPE 17/20). At baseline, after each repertoire performance, and following a concluding 10-minute silent sitting period, participants completed maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) grip and shoulder strength tests. Surface electromyographic (EMG) data were obtained from bilateral upper trapezius and forearm flexor and extensor muscles. Data were analyzed using uni- and multivariate repeated measures analyses of variance (ANOVAs). RESULTS: No evidence of muscular performance fatigability was found in study pianists at any intensity. Mean EMG amplitude and average median EMG frequency did not significantly vary during any repertoire performances or MVC tests (F ≤ 1.72; p>0.09). Additionally, no changes in force or EMG parameters were found during any MVC tests (F ≤ 1.19; p>0.31). CONCLUSIONS: The absence of muscular performance fatigability during even the most intense piano performances suggests substantially differing mechanisms of fatigability and perceived exertion in pianists versus those commonly seen in sport athletes. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of acute fatigability in musicians and develop musician-specific management strategies.