Loop band placement on the distal-lateral portion of the thigh increases gluteal activation during high intensity squatting in trained subjects

Spracklin, Kyle (2016) Loop band placement on the distal-lateral portion of the thigh increases gluteal activation during high intensity squatting in trained subjects. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Anecdotal accounts and clinical case studies report improved squatting mechanics when using loop bands as a proprioceptive aid by activating the gluteus muscles. The objectives of this thesis were: 1) to describe how the use of band-loops placed around the distal thighs would affect lower body muscle activation and 2) to examine if their use would have a direct effect on performance. Fifteen resistance-trained males completed a 5 repetition free barbell back squat at 80% of 1 repetition maximum (RM) and a maximal repetition until failure test at 60% of 1RM. This protocol was completed on two separate testing days; 1) loop band placement and 2) control. No differences were found in the number of repetitions to failure test between conditions. The gluteus maximus and gluteus medius showed greater activation during the intervention testing days. Placing a band-loop around the knees may be a used as a strategy to increase the contribution of the gluteal muscles during a squat.

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