Effects of submaximal cycling at different exercise intensities on maximal isometric force output of the non-exercised elbow flexor muscles

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of submaximal cycling at different exercise intensities on maximal isometric force output of the non-exercised elbow flexor muscles after the cycling. A total of 8 healthy young men performed multiple maximal voluntary contractions by the right elbow flexion before, immediately after, 5 min after, and 10 min after a 6-min submaximal cycling at ventilatory threshold (LI), 70% (MI), and 80% (HI) with both arms relaxed in the air. Force and surface electromyogram (EMG) of the right biceps brachii muscle during the multiple MVCs, blood lactate concentration ([La]), cardiorespiratory responses, and sensations of fatigue for legs (SEF-L) were measured before, immediately after, 5 min after, and 10 min after the submaximal cycling with the three different exercise intensities. Immediately after the submaximal cycling, [La], cardiorespiratory responses, and SEF-L were enhanced in proportion to an increase in exercise intensity of the cycling. Changes in force and EMG activity during the multiple MVCs were not significantly different across the three conditions. The findings imply that group III/IV muscle afferent feedback after the submaximal cycling does not determine the magnitude of MVC force loss of the non-exercised upper limb muscles.