Preview
Hüseyin Akbulut, MSc (2026). Isokinetic Dynamometry Test: Protocol and Application. Sporeus. Retrieved, November 7, 2026. https://sporeus.com/en/egzersiz-testleri-en/isokinetic-dynamometry-test/
Measures: Concentric and eccentric strength, the torque-angular velocity relationship, muscle balance
Table of Contents
Difficulty: Moderate | Category: Strength
Protocol
The Isokinetic Dynamometry Test is a laboratory test measuring muscle force capacity using the resistance applied by an arm moving at a constant angular velocity. Joints such as the knee, hip, elbow, and shoulder can be tested.
Preparation: The dynamometer is aligned with the joint axis; this is a critical step. The participant sits in the chair and the body is stabilized with restraint straps. The test extremity is attached to the dynamometer arm. After calibration is confirmed, a 5–10 minute warm-up is performed.
Test Procedure (Knee Quadriceps/Hamstring): Angular velocities are determined: 60°/s (strength), 180°/s (strength endurance). 3–5 maximal concentric repetitions at each speed. Rest between. Eccentric protocol added optionally.
Data Recording: Peak torque (Nm), angular impulse (Nm.s), mean torque, and strength endurance index are recorded.
Calculation:
– Quadriceps peak torque (Q): maximum extension torque (Nm)
– Hamstring peak torque (H): maximum flexion torque (Nm)
– H:Q ratio = H / Q (about 0.6 at 60°/s is a commonly used conventional reference; the ratio varies with velocity and method)
– Right-left asymmetry = |(dominant − non-dominant)| / dominant × 100 (below 10% is a common return-to-sport criterion)
Post-Test: Quadriceps and hamstring stretching. All parameters reported. The H:Q ratio is used to assess strength balance.
Formula
H:Q = hamstring peak torque / quadriceps peak torque; asymmetry (%) = |dominant − non-dominant| / dominant × 100
Equipment Required
isokinetic dynamometer (Biodex or Cybex), stabilisation straps
Interpretation
There is no single widely accepted normative table for this test. Results are best interpreted against the person’s previous measurements with the same protocol and equipment (and, where relevant, left-right comparison).
Practical Applications
Isokinetic testing is used as a return-to-sport criterion in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rehabilitation, in injury risk screening at sports health centers, and for research purposes.
Limitations
Requires expensive and difficult-to-transport equipment. Joint alignment errors significantly affect results. Not available at all clinics.
Related Tests: Nordic Hamstring Strength Test, Hip Abductor Strength Test, 1RM Back Squat Test
Sources: Hislop HJ & Montgomery J, 2007, Daniels and Worthingham’s Muscle Testing; Dvir Z, 2004, Isokinetics, Churchill Livingstone
Hüseyin Akbulut is the founder of Sporeus and author of THRESHOLD (EŞİK), a 540-page Turkish-language book on endurance science.
- 540pp THRESHOLD Book
- MSc Sport Sciences
- Marmara University
Protocol The Isokinetic Dynamometry Test is a laboratory test measuring muscle force capacity using the resistance applied by an arm moving at a constant angular velocity. Joints such as the knee, hip, elbow, and shoulder can be tested. Preparation: The dynamometer is aligned with the joint axis; this is a critical step. The participant sits in the chair and the body is stabilized with restraint straps. The test extremity is attached to the dynamometer arm. After calibration is confirmed, a 5–10 minute warm-up is performed. Test Procedure (Knee Quadriceps/Hamstring): Angular velocities are determined: 60°/s (strength), 180°/s (strength endurance). 3–5 maximal concentric repetitions at each speed. Rest between. Eccentric protocol added optionally. Data Recording: Peak torque (Nm), angular impulse (Nm.s), mean torque, and strength endurance index are recorded. Calculation: - Quadriceps peak torque (Q): maximum extension torque (Nm) - Hamstring peak torque (H): maximum flexion torque (Nm) - H:Q ratio = H / Q (about 0.6 at 60°/s is a commonly used conventional reference; the ratio varies with velocity and method) - Right-left asymmetry = |(dominant − non-dominant)| / dominant × 100 (below 10% is a common return-to-sport criterion) Post-Test: Quadriceps and hamstring stretching. All parameters reported. The H:Q ratio is used to assess strength balance. Formula
H:Q = hamstring peak torque / quadriceps peak torque; asymmetry (%) = |dominant − non-dominant| / dominant × 100
Equipment Required
isokinetic dynamometer (Biodex or Cybex), stabilisation straps
Interpretation
There is no single widely accepted normative table for this test. Results are best interpreted against the person's previous measurements with the same protocol and equipment (and, where relevant, left-right comparison).
