Spectrum analysis of surface electromyogram (FMG) signals is an effective approach to the study of localized muscular fatigue during isometric contraction. Many investigators have con firmed the frequency of the EMG signals being lowered during sustained contaction. In this study, the cyclic loading tasks were performed, and a comparison was made for the median power frequency shift pattern of the EMG signals with the sustained contraction of the same load. The median power frequency shift of the EMG signals for the cyclic loading task was found to be a part of that for the sustained contraction. Based on this result, a new muscle fatigue index was computed by normalizing the duration of the sustained contraction. A fatigue index was obtained as a function of exertion level and the work/rest schedule. With the proposed fatigue index, it is possible to evaluate or predict the degree of muscular fatigue for a physically demanding task.