Comparing Two Commonly Used Approaches for Calculating the Rate of Torque Development: the Time-Interval Method and the Instantaneous Method

Author

• Michael S. Sargent, Texas A & M University - San AntonioFollow

Date of Graduation

Fall 12-10-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Counseling, Health and Kinesiology

Thesis Chair

Dr. T. Brock Symons

Abstract

This study compared the calculation of instantaneous and time-interval methods for determining the rate of torque development (RTD). 15 healthy college-aged males (27±6.5 yrs., 175±7.4 cm, 88±18.6 kg) completed isometric and isokinetic concentric testing across three sessions. Measures included isometric and isokinetic concentric peak torque, time-interval RTD, Instantaneous RTD, and reliability metrics. Instantaneous RTD was calculated as RTD_{Instantaneous} = Δ Force_0.0008s/Δ Time_0.0008s, whereas time-interval RTD was calculated as RTD_{Time-Interval} = Δ Force / Δ Time across three-time bands: 0-50, 0-100, and 100-200 ms. Differences between calculation methods were found in the 0-50 ms and 0-100 ms intervals (p< 0.05), with no difference observed in the 100-200 ms interval. Reliability was excellent across all variables except concentric torque at 180º•s⁻¹ between test days 1 and 2. These findings suggest that the choice of RTD calculation method should be guided by the specific time interval of interest, the research question, and the investigators experience level.

Recommended Citation

Sargent, Michael S., "Comparing Two Commonly Used Approaches for Calculating the Rate of Torque Development: the Time-Interval Method and the Instantaneous Method" (2025). Masters Theses (Archived). 52.
https://digitalcommons.tamusa.edu/masters_theses/52