THE IMPACT OF INERTIAL EXERCISES PERFORMED IN THE WORKPLACE ON SHOULDER MUSCLES’ STRENGTH AND MUSCLES’ FATIGUE RESISTANCE IN WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES

Abstract

Background: Workers who do monotonous and repetitive work in a static position often complain about fatigue and decreased work efficiency. Some studies indicate that to improve muscle fatigue, resistance strength training can be used. Material and Methods: To investigate the effect of 4-week inertial training on shoulder muscles’ strength and muscles’ fatigue resistance 44 female workers with disabilities were examined. The participants were randomized into the training group (T) (N = 32) and the control group (C) (N = 12). Before the training and after that shoulder muscles’ strength were tested at the start and at the end of the workday (Monday and Friday). The participants were asked to complete questionnaire concerning their fatigue at work (T and C), inertial training and work efficiency (T). Results: The work performed during the last day of the workweek, i.e., Friday (before training) resulted in a significant decrease in shoulder muscles’ strength in T and C. Muscle strength achieved at the end of the workweek (Friday afternoon) was significantly lower than achieved at the start of the workweek (Monday morning) in both tested groups (before training). Moreover, inertial training resulted in a significant increase in shoulder muscles’ strength in T; 34–74% for different muscles. No changes in muscles’ strength were noted in C. Increased muscle strength in T following inertial training effectively prevented muscle fatigue. After training the differences in shoulder muscles’ strength noted in T during different times of the workday and workweek were insignificant. Moreover, 4-week inertial training increased significantly the work efficiency of women from T by 4%; no changes were noted in C. Inertial training was well tolerated by the participants. Conclusions: Using inertial training in women with disabilities to prevent shoulder muscles’ fatigue during the workday and workweek is recommended.