Abstract
Maximum concentric and eccentric isokinetic plantar flexion peak torque values were evaluated in a closed kinetic chain in eight volunteers from a high-level junior soccer team, with a median age of 17 (range 16--18) years. An isokinetic dynamometer was used and the reproducibility of a previously unevaluated position of the subject was assessed. The test-retest interval was 48 hours. The reproducibility of the test was high, with Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC) of 0.87--0.97 for right- and left-sided concentric and eccentric recordings. The mean peak torque generation was significantly higher in eccentric muscle action compared with concentric; 324 (SD 107) vs 177 (SD 55) Nm. We conclude that one valuable method for measurements of plantar flexion torque in the ankle joint could be in the closed kinetic chain position.