Relação entre ativação muscular glútea e o desempenho em testes funcionais em mulheres

Abstract

The study on the neuromuscular function of the hip using surface electromyography (EMG) has gained importance in recent decades, with emphasis on the function of the gluteal musculature, due to its relationship with the kinematic changes of the lower limb that predispose to dysfunctions of this segment. However, it is noteworthy that the way in which the activation of the gluteal musculature is related to functional performance is still a field to be further investigated. In this sense, the objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between the degree of activation of the gluteal musculature and the performance in tests produced in moderately trained women. To this end, 55 women, volunteers, with moderate degree of physical training and age between 18 and 30 years participated in the study. Participants were assessed for muscle activation of the gluteus maximus (GMax) and gluteus medius (GMed) muscles using surface electromyography (EMG) in maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) and during the obeyed tests. They were also evaluated for functional performance through three tests: shuttle run (SR), triple hop test (THT) and six-meter hop test (STHT), considered as measures of agility, strength and functional. Through an associative study (manuscript 1), it was identified that gluteal muscle activation is not associated with running and jumping performance in the evaluated population. Through a comparative study (manuscript 2), it was identified that the level of gluteal activation can be determinant for the performance in STHT in this population. It is concluded that the muscular activation of GMax and GMed, did not show any relation with the performance of functional tests in moderately trained women, however, when a comparison was made between groups with greater and lesser activation of this musculature, a better performance of the muscle was noted in group with higher values of muscle activation in complex activities that require association of unipodal support, agility and jumping.