Aim The purpose of this study was to compare resistance-trained (RT) and non-trained (NT) males regarding mechanisms for neural activation during isometric muscle contractions of the soleus muscle. Further the plantar flexor strength of the two groups were compared. Method Ten males that had been resistance training for at least 3 years (RT) and 10 who did not train regularly (NT) participated in the study. The participants performed isometric contractions of their right plantar flexors against an isokinetic dynamometer at 15, 25, 50, 80 and 100% of maximal voluntary contraction. Five contractions were performed for each level in two different conditions; one where the participants were stimulated using transcranial magnetic stimulation over the left motor cortex and one in which they were stimulated electrically over the tibial nerve. Stimulations were also delivered at rest. The resulting soleus muscle motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and V-waves were normalized to a maximal M-wave (Mmax). Plantar flexor strength was measured and voluntary activation estimated using the twitch interpolation technique. Results No significant difference was found between the RT and the NT group for voluntary activation, V/Mmax ratio or MEP/Mmax at any level of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). The RT group was significantly stronger than the NT group. Conclusions The study showed that the RT group was stronger than the NT group. Despite the difference in strength there was no significant group difference between the two groups in MEPs, V/Mmax or voluntary activation. This indicates that there is no, or a very small difference in corticospinal excitability of the soleus muscle between the chronic RT males and the NT males.

Title: The effect of yogic relaxation on muscle tone Objectives: The aim of this thesis is to present a technique of yogic relaxation, yoga nidra, as one of the possible methods for releasing mental and physical tension. The aim of the practical part of this thesis is to evaluate the effect of yoga nidra on muscle tone. Methods: The practical part of this thesis is a pilot study with six participants. For objective assessment of muscle tone the method of myotonometry was used. M. soleus was selected as the muscle to be measured. First, the original muscle tone of m. soleus on the dominant lower limb of the participants was measured. Then the group of participants was instructed about the practice of yoga nidra and was asked to practice it every day in the following 14 days at home using a given audio recording. After the two-week training, the muscle tone of m. soleus was measured again in order to determine the long-term effect of yoga nidra on muscle tone. Finally, the participants participated in a group lesson of yoga nidra guided by a yoga teacher. Then, the muscle tone of m. soleus was measured again in order to determine the instant effect of yoga nidra on muscle tone. Results: After the two-week training of yoga nidra the research found a decrease in muscle tone of m. soleus in 5 out of 6...