Abstract
The aim of the paper is to show the physiological effects and effects on selected health variables caused by work site trunk muscle training in vocational groups with a large work related mechanical exposure of the back. A total of 10 male hospitalporters and 23 female nurse assistents and home helpers paticipated bi-weekly - one hour per session - in a 12 weeks submaximal(50–55% MVC) muscle training programme. The main findings was that the endurance capacity of the trunk extensor muscles increased by 50%, while their strength only increased marginally Moreover was the pain level of the lumbar back reduced significantly. Minimizing muscle fatigue of the paravertebral muscles is probably one relevant way to to reduce the magnitude of occupational elated low back problems. This goal can be obtained by using two different but equal important concepts: Ergonomic (including work organization) changes and maintenance of the strength and endurance of the trunk muscles of the working force.
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