The NFL Scouting Combine is an annual event where the best college football players in the country come together to showcase their skills and abilities in front of scouts and coaches from all 32 NFL teams. As a physical therapist, I was invited as one of a select few to participate in the combine and perform isokinetic strength testing on the athletes.
Isokinetic strength testing is a type of muscle strength testing that involves measuring an athlete’s ability to generate force at a constant speed. This is typically done using a machine that controls the speed of the movement and measures the force an athlete generates. Isokinetic testing is particularly useful for assessing an athlete’s strength and identifying any areas of weakness or imbalance.
Very few physical therapists have experience in isokinetic testing, and I have been blessed to have been specializing in this for the past 30+ years. In fact, Bodyworx is one of the only clinics in Wichita, or even in Kansas to offer this specialist testing!
How does the NFL use this testing?
At the combine, my role as a physical therapist was to administer the isokinetic strength tests to the athletes and provide feedback to the teams on their performance. This involves working closely with the athletes to ensure they were properly positioned on the machine and providing guidance on how to perform the movements correctly.
One of the things that struck me during the testing was the incredible level of athleticism and strength that was on display by the athletes. These were some of the best football players in the country, and it was clear that they had been training hard for this moment.
However, despite their impressive physical abilities, many of the athletes still had areas of weakness or imbalance that were revealed during the testing. This is where my expertise came in.
By analyzing the test results and observing the athletes during the testing, I was able to identify areas where they could improve their strength and prevent injuries.
Overall, the experience of performing isokinetic strength testing at the NFL Scouting Combine was incredibly rewarding. It was inspiring to see the level of talent and dedication displayed by the athletes, and it was a privilege to be a part of the process of helping them improve their performance and achieve their goals.
The same testing the NFL players receive is available to YOU.
Want to learn more about isokinetic testing, and how it can benefit you?
Candidates include those of any age who:
- Had a surgery and need to determine if their strength is back to normal
- Athletes looking to determine if they strength imbalance
- Athletes or Weekend Warriors who wish to improve their performance
- Anyone after shoulder, hip, knee, or ACL surgery
We have a saying at Bodyworx: “If you’re not assessing, you’re just guessing!”
Isokinetic testing is the gold standard in strength assessment, and eliminates the guesswork!
To learn more, or to see if you are a candidate for the same testing the NFL players receive, you can contact us here, or call us at (316)558-8808.
Also, if you are trying to get back in shape or are experiencing pain during exercise, make sure that you come visit us in Wichita and book a Free Discovery Visit so we can assess any issues you might be having that are keeping you from staying active and at the top of your game.
Until next time,
Cody Barnett PT
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