Abstract
Walking and standing require muscular force to support the weight of body provided by the whole of lower extremities. Isometric gross muscle strength (strength of a one leg press) exerted in the direction of the extended leg in the supine position was measured at knee angles of 15, 30, 45, 60 and 75 degrees. This parameter was determined for 20 subjects, 10 males and 10 females. The relation between the one leg press and maintaining the standing position on one leg was examined using surface EMG in 6 males. As a result, the strength of one leg press exerted with maximum effort was greatest at a knee angle of 15 degrees in the direction of extension. This parameter was recognized to have characteristic rational muscular force exertion since to keep one leg standing requires muscular force near the knee extension position and the mid-stance phase of the gait is at a knee angle of 15 degrees. Furthermore, surface EMG of lower extremity muscles during one leg press while supporting the body weight indicated muscular activity essentially the same as that for maintaining one leg standing. Thus, the strength of one leg press was suggested to possibly express the muscular force required for keeping one leg standing.
