The Effect of Static Muscle Work on a Subsequent Fine Manipulative Task

Abstract

An experiment is described where the effect of static contraction upon a subsequent fine manipulative task was investigated. Maximum grip strength was established then a force of 15% of the maximum grip was used by six male subjects as follows. They were required to hold this static contraction for (i) 3 minutes and (ii) for 90% of the time of their maximum holding time. The effect of these two exertions on a subsequent fine manipulative task was checked at 3 time intervals after completion of the static muscle work (1 - immediately; 2 - after 5 minutes; 3 - after 30 minutes). Results showed an interference with fine manipulative task for a period of less than 5 minutes after completing the static muscle work.