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Fast and slow fibers in human muscles

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Abstract

Temporal parameters of fast and slow muscle fibers were studied in eight human muscles in response to stimulation by short (8 msec) single pulses. Single peak and multiple peak curves of changes in muscle hardness were recorded on strain guages with reading amplified. Measurement from the beginning of contraction to its peak revealed fibers with different contraction velocities. Both fast and slow fibers were present in different muscles of the same person and in the same muscles of different persons and varied in their contraction speeds. We conclude that groups of fast fibers and slow fibers constitute distinct “families” of fibers with similar contractile properties. Decreases in amplitude of contraction after physical work provide an index for evaluation of muscular fatigue.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Physiology, Lesgaft Institute of Physical Culture, Leningrad

    N. V. Zimkin, V. G. Panov & V. T. Raikov

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  1. N. V. Zimkin
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  2. V. G. Panov
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  3. V. T. Raikov
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Zimkin, N.V., Panov, V.G. & Raikov, V.T. Fast and slow fibers in human muscles. Neurosci Behav Physiol 6, 1–8 (1973). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01185997

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