Standardization and Utilization of Lower Limb Single Joint Isometric Force Plate Assessments and Recommendations for Future Research

Single joint isometric assessments of force production using force plates have become popular in research and practice; however, there are currently no standardization recommendations. The purpose of the present review was to explore and discuss the use of force plates to assess single joint isometric force production characteristics and provide suggestions on protocol standardization for both laboratory and applied settings. Frequently used single joint isometric assessments currently performed using force plates involve the knee flexors/hip extensors and plantar flexors. Currently there are a range of protocols applied to assessing isometric force production; therefore, we provide recommendations on key methodological features to be considered. We also discuss the potential shortcomings and future research directions for single joint isometric testing in both laboratory and applied settings.