PhD Scientific Days 2026

Health Sciences 2.

Effects of Eccentric Versus Concentric Overload Resistance Training on Gait and Sit-to-Stand Kinematics: A Pilot Study Using Markerless Motion Capture

Name of the presenter

Emam, Mohamed

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Semmelweis University

Authors

Mohamed Emam¹, András Horváth¹, Bálint Kovács², Beáta Csizmadia², Jingyi Ye², Tibor Hortobágyi²
1: Semmelweis University
2: Hungarian University of Sports Science

Text of the abstract

Introduction
Eccentric overload resistance training may induce distinct neuromuscular adaptations compared to traditional approaches, but its effects on gait and sit-to-stand (STS) performance are not well understood.

Aims
To compare the effects of eccentric overload versus concentric overload resistance training on gait and STS biomechanics in older adults, with a focus on lower-limb kinematics.

Method
Ten healthy older adults were randomized into an eccentric overload group (ECC, n = 5) or a concentric overload group (CON, n = 5). Pre- and post-intervention assessments of gait and STS were conducted using markerless motion capture (OpenCap). Gait trials were performed at a fixed cadence and averaged across five trials. For STS, three trials were recorded, and the fastest was analyzed. Linear mixed-effects models assessed spatiotemporal gait and scalar STS outcomes, while Statistical Parametric Mapping evaluated joint kinematics across the movement cycle.

Results
No significant group, time, or interaction effects were observed for gait or scalar STS outcomes. Gait speed and cadence remained stable in both groups. Descriptively, the CON group improved STS performance (reduced time, increased velocity), whereas the ECC group showed minimal changes. However, kinematic analysis revealed a significant group effect in knee joint motion during 50–60% of the STS cycle (late rising phase), with the ECC group demonstrating altered knee excursion compared to CON. No other kinematic differences were found.

Conclusion
Eccentric overload training induced task-specific changes in knee joint kinematics during STS without affecting overall performance or gait. This suggests an influence on movement strategy rather than functional speed. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Funding
No funding was received.