Effects of Ergometer Exercise after Static Stretching and Strength Exercise on Muscle Activity of the Quadriceps Muscle

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effect of ergometer exercise after performing static stretching and strength exercise on the activity of the quadriceps muscle. In general, the effects of performing both the strength and stretching exercises before ergometer exercises were examined. Methods: The participants were divided into two exercise groups and performed static stretching and strength exercises and then ergometer exercise. Each exercise was performed for 4 weeks, three times a week, by each group to measure changes in the muscle activities of the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis. Measurements were made at weeks 0 and 4, and electromyography was used in a static posture. Results: Both the stretching and strength exercise groups showed significant increases in the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis muscle activities after exercise. Conclusion: Stretching and strength exercises before ergometer exercise helps to increase muscle activities. Stretching is thought to be more effective for gaining muscle activity than muscle strength. However, no significant difference was found between the two groups.