Specificity of eccentric hamstring training and the lack of consistency between strength assessments using conventional test devices

Hans-Peter Wiesinger* (First author), Manuel Scharinger, Alexander Koesters, Christoph Gressenbauer, Erich Mueller

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalOriginal Articlepeer-review

10 Citations (Web of Science)

Abstract

Hamstring injuries are endemic, but influences of test-specific training and the application of different test methods on decision making remain elusive. Sport-students were randomised to isokinetic (IG) or Nordic hamstring (NG) exercise or a control group (CG) for six weeks. Training and testing procedures were matched to biomechanical parameters. Hamstring strength (EPT), work, muscle soreness (visual analogue scale (VAS)), biceps femoris (BFlh) muscle size and architecture were assessed. Anthropometrics and strength parameters did not differ at baseline. Yet, body mass normalised EPT, and work revealed a significant group x time x device effect, with a significant main effect for devices. Experimental conditions triggered meaningful increases in EPT compared to the control group, but the effects were higher when recorded on the training device. Despite significant group x time interactions, normalised average work on the NHD was only higher in the NG compared to CG of the left leg (+ 35%). No effects were found for BFlh parameters. Hamstrings showed a high training specificity, but adaptations likely remain undetected owing to the low sensitivity of conventional test devices. Moreover, strength increase of similar to 15% does not necessarily have to be reflected in BFlh parameters.
Original languageEnglish
Article number13417
Number of pages13
JournalScientific reports
Volume11
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 28 Jun 2021
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Femoris long head
  • Biceps femoris
  • Muscle architecture
  • Vastus lateralis
  • Exercise
  • Injuries
  • Soccer
  • Length
  • Reliability
  • Adaptations

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