Males and females have similar neuromuscular coordination strategies of the quadriceps during fatiguing repeated all-out cycling

Introduction An imbalance of vastus medialis (VM) and lateralis (VL) muscle activation patterns dyscoordination may contribute to the sex discrepancy in incidence patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). While some studies have examined sex-specific VM/VL coordination strategies tasks, no previous during repeated sprint exercise (RSE). Methods In this study, asymptomatic young adults ( N = 39, 19 females) completed a RSE protocol consisting 10 × s all-out cycling interspersed by 30 passive rest. Electromyographic (EMG) signals from VM VL muscles were recorded throughout exercise. Results VM:VL ratio did not change with fatigue was different between sexes. From 1 10, VM-VL onset delay increased 9.62 16.95 ms 19.28 45.09 males females, respectively p < 0.001); however, difference found 0.524). Muscle amplitude plateaued at repetitions females while mechanical work similar repetitions. Discussion These findings suggest that differences PFPS be influenced as assessed EMG.