Objectives: This study was conducted to closely examine the effects of representative types of lower limb flexion and extension exercises (unilateral and bilateral exercises) and the combined exercise using a ski simulator on lower limb joint and muscle activities. Equipment and methods: In the experiments of this study performed on 20 participants, lower limb joint angles and muscle activities were measured during unilateral (lunge), bilateral (squat), and combine (ski simulator) using a 3D motion capture and electromyography analysis system. Results: Analysis of the measurement results revealed that unilateral exercises required more time and exhibited greater angular displacements of the lower limb joints (P < 0.05). Significant differences were also observed in peak and mean muscle activities (P < 0.05). Based on these findings, the muscle activities were compared during ski simulator use that enables a type of combined exercise. We verified that the rectus femoris exhibited the greatest activity during the ski simulator exercise, while the gastrocnemius exhibited relatively lower electromyography (EMG) measurements (P < 0.05). Additionally, muscle activity patterns during the ski simulator exercise were more similar to those of the bilateral squat exercise than to those of the unilateral lunge exercise. Extensive studies were recently conducted to identify effective exercise methods and tools. Conclusion: Research approaches adopted by such studies are easy to apply and may be applicable in many fields involving rehabilitation and improvement of muscle strength and balance.
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