An Examination of Thigh Muscle Activations in Bridge-Plank Exercises Performed on Different Grounds

Abstract

The study aimed to examine hamstring-quadriceps muscle activations of the supine bridge and reverse plank exercises that are performed for both improving the overall body strength and contributing to the treatment in the process following an injury on different grounds. Methods: Ten participants (four males and six females, age=26.70±3.02 years) without regular sports habits were included in the study. Bilateral supine bridge and bilateral reverse plank exercises were practiced randomly on stable and unstable grounds. In the study, muscle activation values of vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris (BF) and semitendinosus (SEM) muscles of the participants were examined. Along with the muscle activation that occurred during the exercise, hamstring (BF+SEM)/quadriceps (VM+VL) ratio was also determined (H:Q). Results: The lowest co-activation ratio (most balanced H:Q activation) was observed on stable ground bridge exercise (5.83±4.04), and the largest co-activation ratio (hamstring dominant activation) was observed on stable ground plank exercise (8.84±6.60). No significant difference was found between exercises at H:Q co-activation ratio (p>0.05). A statistically significant difference was found in the quadriceps and hamstring group in terms of exercise and difference ground in favor of plank (p<0.05). Conclusion: Reverse plank exercise has greater agonist muscle activation than the supine bridge. Therefore, it is thought that bridge exercise could be advised in the rehabilitation process that necessitates a high level of balance, especially in co-activation ratio. Further study with various clinical problems may direct the process.

Immediate Effects of the Reverse Plank Exercise on Muscle Thickness and Postural Angle in Individuals with the Forward Shoulder Posture

“…A previous study reported that the traditional plank engages the anterior stabilizers while the reverse plank engages the posterior stabilizers, including the multifidus, which is easily affected by the direction of gravity due to the supine posture [ 23 ]. Additionally, the reverse plank facilitates the strengthening of the muscles of the upper and lower extremities, including the scapular depressors and retractors, elbow extensors, posterior deltoids, gluteus, and hamstrings [ 24 , 25 , 26 ]. It can also be used as a rehabilitation exercise to improve core and spinal stabilization by engaging both the abdominals and lower back muscles.…”

Comparison of thigh muscle activations in single leg exercises: bench squat, step-up, airborne lunge

“…It is necessary to compare different practices in order to design the right exercises for strength and conditioning training. The appropriate exercise choice is possible using the activation values determined during different exercises for the same muscle or muscle group [8,9]. The findings obtained may be followed by exercise participants for their current training situations or targeted goals.…”