The effect of a psyching strategy on neuromuscular activation and force production in strength-trained men

Force and electromyographic (EMG) activity of the biceps and triceps brachi i were measured in 15 strength-trained men during maximal isometric action of the forearm flexors, with the elbow at 90 degrees, following 20-s period s of psyching (PSY), reading aloud (RA), and mental arithmetic (MA). Percei ved arousal and attentional focus ratings for PSY were greater than those o btained for RA and MA, which were undifferentiated. Perceived effort, bicep s and triceps EMG, and maximal force did not differ across conditions. Ther efore, in highly trained men under conditions of brief exertion, when the b iomechanics of the muscular action were controlled, psyching resulted in a perception of enhanced readiness but did not influence force or muscular ac tivation differently from psychological states that were preceded by distra ction.