Effects of the back-squat exercise on lower limb myoelectric activity in trained men: a systematic review

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the effects of the back-squat exercise on the lower limb myoelectric activity in trained men. Methods: We conducted a systematic review following the recommendations of PRISMA. Medline (PubMed), Scielo, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Lilacs databases were searched. The search terms included electromyography, exercise, resistance training, and squat. We included experimental studies that described the back-squat exercise using surface electromyography (EMG) in men experienced in resistance training and back squat exercise at angles from 60º to 90º. Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. The interventions of the included studies ranged from 2 to 7 days. The protocols demonstrated to improve the neuromuscular system and to provide greater acquisition of strength in the muscles involved in performing the back-squat exercise (p < 0.05). Thirty-seven muscles were analyzed, with a predominance of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, gluteus maximus, and rectus femoris muscles. Conclusion: The studies investigated in this review showed that the back-squat exercise at angles from 60º to 90º increased the lower limb myoelectric activity recorded in loads of 30% and 100% of 1RM in men experienced in resistance training. However, more studies with higher methodological quality are needed in the analysis of the squat exercise to reduce the risk of bias.