My question is very simple. Which type of muscle fibers does gymnastics training target?
In particular, work on the rings.
My question is very simple. Which type of muscle fibers does gymnastics training target?
In particular, work on the rings.
Mostly IIb, probably type I in the forearms/grip structures a bit more as that’s more their makeup.
-Dan
While type I fibers (slow twitch) are recruited with all exercises, the question is which is used beyond that, IIa or IIb.
If the athlete has a high strength to bodyweight ratio, then the nervous system will only turn-on each successive muscle fiber type as needed. I would think a huge amount of IIb’s would have to be used to hold the positions on the rings or horse. But all types are recruited when in working with high loads/accelerative movements.
I would think the parallel/uneven bars would use a mix of fibers, but mostly type IIa.
I would say most gymnastic movements tap into the type IIb’s frequently just from looking at the muscular development of the athletes, let alone the explosive movements and static positions.
TopSirloin