ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits and limitations of using three dimensional (3D) musculoskeletal modelling (LifeModeler) in assessing the safety and efficacy of exercising on an abdominal crunch resistance training machine. Three anthropometric cases were studied, representing a 5th percentile female, and 50th percentile and 95th percentile male. Results indicated that the LifeModeler default model was capable of solving the forward dynamics simulations without adjustments. The modelling was able to indicate high risk for back injury when performing the abdominal crunch exercise as a result of the unacceptable intervertebral joint loading that occurs during the exercise. Individuals with small anthropometric dimensions such as some females and children cannot be accommodated suitably on the abdominal crunch machine which negatively impacts exercise posture and technique. Hip flexor muscle contribution in the execution of the exercise for the 5th percentile female was substantial thus reducing the efficacy of the exercise in isolating the abdominal muscles.
Subject(s)
Abdomen , Back Injuries/prevention & control , Joints/physiology , Muscle Contraction/physiology , Muscle, Skeletal/physiology , Resistance Training , Spine/physiology , Anthropometry , Back Injuries/etiology , Back Injuries/physiopathology , Child , Female , Hip , Humans , Male , Models, Biological , Posture , Risk Factors , Stress, MechanicalABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to evaluate the benefits and limitations of using three dimensional (3D) musculoskeletal modelling (LifeModeler) in assessing the safety and efficacy of exercising on a seated biceps curl resistance training machine. Three anthropometric cases were studied, representing a 5th percentile female, 50th percentile and 95th percentile male. Results indicated that the LifeModeler default model was not adequate to solve the forward dynamics simulations. Therefore adjustments had to be made to the default model to successfully complete the forward dynamics simulations. The software was able to sufficiently highlight the shortcomings of the biceps curl machine's engineered adjustability in relation to the anthropometric dimensions of the studied cases, as the 5th percentile female could not be accommodated suitably on the machine. High lumbar spine anterior/posterior shear forces for all anthropometric cases and maximum muscle tensions for the female and 50th percentile male indicate that the seated biceps curl exercise may pose risks for injuries. To conclude, it appears that 3D musculoskeletal modelling can be used to evaluate resistance training equipment such as the seated biceps curl machine. However the limitations as indicated by this study must be taken into consideration, especially when using the default LifeModeler model.
