A phenomenological model of the time course of maximal voluntary isometric contraction force for optimization of complex loading schemes

We construct a simple and predictive ordinary differential equation model to describe the time course of maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) force during voluntary isometric contractions and at rest. These time courses are of particular interest whenever force capacities are a limiting factor, e.g. during heavy manual work or resistance training (RT) sessions. Our model is able to describe MVIC force under complex loading schemes and is validated with a comprehensive set of published data from the elbow flexors. We use the calibrated model to analyze fatigue and recovery patterns observed in the literature. Due to the models structure, it can be efficiently employed to optimize complex loading schemes. We demonstrate this by computing a work-rest schedule that minimizes fatigue and an optimal isometric RT session as examples.