Effects of an elastomeric technology garment on different external and internal load variables

Abstract

Resistance training is one key method for improving physical conditioning. With this purpose, Menatechpro System® has designed an avant-garde garment that includes elastomeric technology that may stimulate the neuromuscular system in a better way, but a deeper knowledge of its effects is needed. Objective: To explore the effects of a new garment with elastomeric technology on upper-limb performance, and neuromuscular, perceptual, and cardiovascular responses in two upper-extremities exercises. Methodology: Fit young men trained in resistance exercises performed a seated shoulder press (80% of one-repetition maximum) and push up (bodyweight) until muscle failure with the garment that incorporates the elastomeric technology versus a placebo garment without it. The number of repetitions, mean propulsive velocity, mean and peak muscle activation, rate of perceived effort and perceived velocity, and heart rate were analysed. Possible differences were obtained with a two-way mixed ANOVA of repeated measures with post-hoc analysis. Results: Compared with a placebo garment, the use of this new garment with elastomeric technology improved positively the physical performance and muscular activation during the exercises analysed (p ≤ .05). Conclusion: Menatechpro System®'s elastomeric technology integrated into the garment could provide an optimal neuromuscular stimulus for the development of the performance during the upper extremity training.