Effects of Concentric and Eccentric Abdominal Training on Abdominal Strength and Lumbo-Pelvic Stability: A Randomized-Controlled Trial

Objective: This study investigated the effects of 6-week concentric and eccentric abdominal training on abdominal muscle strength (AS) and lumbo-pelvic stability (LPS).

Method: Forty-five subjects (mean age=19.78±1.26 years) were randomly assigned into concentric group (CG), eccentric group (EG), and control group (NG). Training was carried out (group-based) 3-time/week, comprised of abdominal curl for CG and bilateral leg lowering for EG. Subjects performed 15 repetitions, 3 sets with 1-min rest in between sets, for 6 weeks. The NG did not participate in any interventions. The AS was measured using the bent-knee-sit-up test. The LPS was measured using the stabilizer pressure biofeedback unit. The measurements were taken at baseline, 3 weeks and 6 weeks.

Result: The mixed between-within subjects ANOVA revealed no significant interaction between types of intervention and time for both effects on AS (F(2, 42)=0.68, p=.610) and LPS (F(2, 42)=.644, p=.633). There was a significant effect for time on AS (F(2, 42)=22.996, p=0.000) but not on LPS (F(2, 42)=3.592, p=0.037). The main effect comparing the interventions was not significant on both AS (F(2, 42)=1.557, p=.223) and LPS (F(2, 42)=1.664, p=.202).

Conclusion: This study suggests that both training methods can be used to train the abdominal muscles.