Discrete isokinetic knee flexor and extensor data - Normative values of 201 female and 308 male healthy athletes

Isokinetic dynamometry is considered as gold standard to assess the strength capacities of the knee flexors and extensors. Normative data are needed to rank individual values and to derive subsequent training interventions. OBJECTIVE: The present cross-sectional study aimed to present normative values of discrete isokinetic tests with extended hip joint position of healthy male and female athletes in a large cohort. METHODS: Concentric and eccentric knee flexor (prone position) and extensor (supine position) tests were performed by 201 female (23±4 y, 171±6 cm, 66±9 kg) and 308 male (22±4 y, 183±9 cm, 80±11 kg) healthy athletes at an isokinetic dynamometer (IsoMed2000) at two angular velocities (30°/s, 150°/s). RESULTS: Relative distributions and velocity relationships of peak moments, angles of peak moment and contractional work are provided. Female athletes demonstrated lower values of peak moments (20±1%) and contractional work (18±2%). CONCLUSIONS: The available data set offers normative values of a large cohort of female and male athletes. Gender differences were very consistent across strength parameters. The presented numbers assist practitioners and coaches to interpret individual values.