Effectiveness of Distal and Proximal Muscle Fatigue for Healthy Young Adults

Initially, sociodemographic data, muscle viscoelastic properties, foot plantar pressure, and static and dynamic balance are assessed. Additionally, the strengths of the plantar flexor and dorsiflexor muscles are evaluated. After these assessments, the heel raise exercise will be implemented in this protocol. Firstly, dominant leg, the heel raise exercise will be performed for 3 sets with the knees in full extension until the individual reaches fatigue. Subsequently, the heel raise exercise will be conducted for another 3 sets with the knee in flexion until the individual reaches fatigue. Following these exercises, Then, the strengths of the hip flexor and extensor muscles will be re-evaluated. If the individual reports a value of 7 or higher on the modified Borg scale, the viscoelastic properties of the muscles, foot plantar pressure, and static and dynamic balance will be reassessed when a 50% decrease in the initial strength is detected.

One week after the application of the distal muscle fatigue protocol, the same individuals will undergo the proximal fatigue protocol. In this protocol, individuals will perform, dominant leg, a single-leg squat exercise targeting the fatigue of the hip flexor and extensor muscles. Prior to this exercise, the viscoelastic properties of the muscles, foot plantar pressure, static and dynamic balances, as well as the strengths of the hip flexor and extensor muscles will be assessed. Then, individuals will perform the single-leg squat exercise, 3 sets. When the individual indicates fatigue, the set will conclude, allowing a 30-second rest between sets. Then, the strengths of the hip flexor and extensor muscles will be re-evaluated. If the individual reports a value of 7 or higher on the modified Borg scale, the viscoelastic properties of the muscles, foot plantar pressure, and static and dynamic balance will be reassessed when a 50% decrease in the initial strength is detected.