Measuring interlimb asymmetry for strength and power: a brief review of assessment methods, data analysis, current evidence, and practical recommendations

Bishop, Chris ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1505-1287, de Keijzer, Kevin L., Turner, Anthony N. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5121-432X and Beato, Marco ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5373-2211 (2023) Measuring interlimb asymmetry for strength and power: a brief review of assessment methods, data analysis, current evidence, and practical recommendations. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research . ISSN 1064-8011 [Article] (Published online first) (doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000004384)

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Abstract

The aim of this brief narrative review is to summarize the present evidence, provide recommendations for data analysis, and provide appropriate training methods to reduce strength and power asymmetries within athlete populations. Present evidence shows that a strong interest in the assessment of asymmetry exists. Despite the perceived associated relationship between asymmetry and injury and performance, a clear link is still missing. Practitioners need to be aware of this when they decide to assess asymmetries and later design training interventions. Several bilateral and unilateral tests could be used to assess asymmetries, such as isokinetic dynamometry, the isometric mid-thigh pull, squat, and Nordic hamstring exercise. Based on the current evidence, future investigations require further standardization of methodology and analysis to optimize interpretation (e.g., within session and between session), adoption, and implementation of interlimb asymmetry testing and appropriate interventions. In this review, 3 training interventions have been proposed to reduce existing lower limb asymmetries in sport populations: traditional resistance training, flywheel resistance training, and combined training interventions, with some evidence suggesting that such interventions can reduce lower limb asymmetries. Nonetheless, the number and quality of articles currently available are too limited to draw firm conclusions; therefore, further research is needed to verify whether training interventions can achieve these aims. To develop an understanding and application of interventions addressing interlimb asymmetries within the sport, greater methodological rigor should be applied toward study design, data analysis, and interpretation of future investigations and when appraising the current literature. [Abstract copyright: Copyright © 2023 National Strength and Conditioning Association.]

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