The effect of Kinesioª tape on quadriceps muscle power output, length/tension, and hip and knee range of motion in asymptomatic cyclists

Abstract

Background: As Kinesio® tape may increase range of motion, facilitate muscle function, enhance circulation, and normalize muscle length/tension ratios creating optimal force, use of this athletic tape has gained popularity in various sporting disciplines. Cycling is a highly competitive sport that continually seeks ways of improving performance. There are, however, no controlled, published studies examining the effects of Kinesio® tape on a cyclist‟s performance. Objectives: To determine the participants‟ power output, bicycle speed, and cadence, quadriceps length/tension, and hip and knee flexion and extension range of motion in terms of the objective findings without the use of Kinesio® tape and then following the application of Kinesio® tape to the quadriceps muscles. To determine the participants‟ perception of a change in their power output, speed, and cadence post- intervention. Method: Forty asymptomatic trained amateur cyclists performed two 1.5 km time trials pre- and post- Kinesio® tape application. The pre- and post- intervention range of motion measurements and the average and maximum power output (watts), cadence (rpm), and speed (km/h) were measured using a universal goniometer and cycle ergometer respectively. The participants‟ perception of a change in power, cadence, and speed following the application of Kinesio® tape was also recorded. SPSS version 18 (SPSS Inc.) was used to analyse the data. Results: There was a significant decrease in maximum power (p = 0.007) post- intervention, but no significant differences in the average power, or average and maximum speed and cadence measurements. Range of motion measurements post- intervention showed a significant flexion (p < 0.021). The majority of the participants (60%) perceived an increase in power and speed post- intervention. Conclusions: There was a visual trend showing an increase in most of the power, speed, and cadence parameters assessed. The range of motion parameters revealed conflicting results and warrant further research