Comparison of kinematics and myoelectrical activity during deadlift, with and without variable banded resistance, in healthy, trained athletes

Abstract

Abstract Background The conventional deadlift is a popular exercise for improving trunk, core, and lower extremity strength due to its functional nature and engagement of multiple joints. However, its use in sports medicine facilities is limited due to concerns about potential lumbar injuries despite evidence supporting the safety and rehabilitative benefits of deadlifts. Understanding lifting mechanics and muscle activation is crucial for optimizing muscle activation using resistive bands in variable resistance therapy. We explored the feasibility of using resistive bands in the conventional deadlift to reduce initial trunk load during forward trunk inclination while gradually increasing resistance as the deadlift progresses. A secondary objective was to provide customized resistance recommendations for injured athletes during the deadlift exercise, based on findings from healthy participants and utilizing dose-response band selection. Methods Surface electromyography recorded muscle activity in the trunk and lower extremities during lifting, with normalization to the isometric Floor Lift using Maximal Voluntary Contraction. Kinematics were measured using inclinometer sensors to track hip and trunk sagittal plane angles. To prevent fatigue, each subject only used one of the three pairs of bands employed in the study. Results Forty-five healthy subjects (mean age: 30.4 ± 6.3 years) participated. Baseline characteristics were similar among the three study groups, except for years of lifting and strength-to-years-of-lifting ratio. Compared to the conventional deadlift group, different resistance band groups showed significantly higher muscle activity in various muscles during different phases of the deadlift. The minimal resistance band group had significantly higher muscle activity in trunk, core, and lower extremity muscles, particularly in the end phase. The moderate resistance band group exhibited higher muscle activity in the mid- and end-phases. The maximum resistance band group had higher muscle activity in several specific muscles during the early phase and overall increased activity in all trunk and lower extremity muscles during the mid and end phases of the deadlift (p < 0.05). Conclusion Findings provide valuable insights into the differential muscle activation associated with various resistance bands during deadlift exercise in the clinic and gym settings. There appears to be a dose-response relationship between increased resistance band width, external load, myoelectric activation, and range.