Introduction
The flywheel training is a relatively recent training methodology that stands out for the continuous resistance and the so-called "excentric overload". Thanks to these characteristics, it showed positive effects not only in the improvement of strength and power, but also in the rehabilitation of muscles and tendons after injuries
How flywheel training works
The system is based on a flywheel that stores kinetic energy when it is rotated. The athlete or patient must therefore oppose this force during the return phase of the movement, generating intense eccentric work. This type of stimulation, which requires the muscles to contract as they stretch, favors unique physiological adaptations: increase in muscle activation, greater tendon stiffness and growth of type II fibres, essential for power
Documented benefits
Several studies have shown that flywheel training produces improvements in strength, hypertrophy, power and jumping ability. In athletics, it has been associated with increments in speed, jump height and speed in directional changes. Compared to traditional weight training, it stimulates muscle activity more and leads to a more complete recovery throughout the range of movement
Applications in rehabilitation
Flywheel training is applied in various rehabilitation contexts:
- Accident prevention, as demonstrated in programs with footballers and volleyball players, in which a significant reduction in muscle injuries was observed.
- Tendon rehabilitationa, for example in the treatment of patella or achillea tendinopathy, with improvements in the quality and structure of the tendon.
- Post-operative recovery, particularly after reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament, where it helps to restore strength and power of the quadriceps.
- Therapy in the Elderly, to combat sarcopenia and reduce the risk of falls, thanks to the improvement of strength and reactivity
Conclusions
Flywheel training is a versatile and scientifically supported tool for musculoskeletal rehabilitation. The combination of continuous resistance and eccentric overload makes it particularly effective not only to recover from injuries, but also to prevent them and to maintain optimal performance, from professional athlete to fragile elderly
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