Measurement of human muscle fatigue

Human muscle fatigue has been studied using a wide variety of exercise models, protocols and assessment methods. Based on the definition of fatigue as 'any reduction in the maximal capacity to generate force or power output', the different methods to measure fatigue are discussed. It is argued that reliable and valid measures must include either assessment of maximal voluntary contraction force or power, or the force generated by electrical stimulation. By comparing tetanic stimulation and maximal voluntary contraction force one may reveal whether fatigue is of central origin, or whether peripheral mechanisms are involved. Adequate use of twitch interpolation provides an even more sensitive measure for central fatigue. Indirect methods as endurance times and electromyography show variable responses during exercise and no close relationship to fatigue. Hence these methods are of limited value in measurement of human muscle fatigue. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.