Comparability of work output measures as determined by isokinetic dynamometry and a closed kinetic chain exercise

The purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship existed between work output as measured by the Lateral Step-Up Test (LSUT) and work output as measured by a Kin-Com isokinetic dynamometer test (KCT). Forty subjects were randomly assigned to one of two different testing orders. Subjects performed each test with their dominant leg only. Group I performed the LSUT followed by the KCT. The second group performed the same two exercises in reverse order. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed (Kin-Com work = Constant + Age + Gender + Lateral step-up work) and was found to provide a good fit to the data. Gender, age, and lateral step-up work were each subsequently analyzed, with the other independent variables held constant. A significant relationship existed (r = .74, p < .01) between the calculated work performed on the LSUT and Kin-Com work. This preliminary finding suggests that clinicians may consider employing standardized closed kinetic chain exercise tests as an objective measure of musculoskeletal performance.