Investigation of muscle activation values of bulgarian split squat movement made with different equipments

Aim: Although the Bulgarian split squat exercise has been the subject of many studies in terms of its effects on muscular activation in recent years, the differences that the use of different equipment will cause in some muscle activation patterns is still an issue that needs research. Therefore, the aim of the research is; The aim of this study is to examine the muscle activation values of the Bulgarian split squat movement performed with different equipment. Material and Method: Twelve people who exercised actively for at least 2 years were included in the study. Anthropometric and electromyographic measurements were made in the study. In anthropometric measurements, height, body weight, BMI (kg/m²) and SIAS-medial malleolus length (75%) were taken. In electromyography measurements, activation values of VL, VM, BF, ST, TA, PL, SO and GM muscles were taken during the Bulgarian split squat movement applied with box, swisball and suspension equipment. Repeated measurements analysis of variance (measures ANOVA) was used to measure the differences in muscle activation values occurring during different equipment applications. Bonferroni test was applied for multiple comparison when there was significant difference between equipment. Results: There was no significant difference in the activation values of the equipment difference in the descent phase. However, it was determined that the swissball had significantly higher activity in the VM, VL, and BF muscles in the ascent phase compared to other equipment. Similarly, it was observed that the suspension system had a significantly higher activity in the ST muscle in the ascent phase compared to the other equipment. On the other hand, no significant difference was observed in terms of activation levels in the exit phase in TA, PL, SO and GM muscles. Conclusion: Swissball can be used for high activation uptake in VM, VL and BF muscles; It is thought that the suspension system can be used for high activation uptake in the ST muscle.