Comparison of different hamstrings training effect on hamstrings:quadriceps strength ratios

Abstract

Hamstring muscles form a multi-articular muscle group that crosses the hip and knee joints. It has been said that the imbalance in the hamstrings: quadriceps strength ratio (H:Q ratio) due to weaker hamstring muscles results in an increased susceptibility to hamstring strains and anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Four different hamstrings trainings, Hip Lift (HL), Single-leg Deadlift (DL), Leg Curl (LC), and Nordic Hamstrings (NH), were conducted and compared in the effect on conventional H:Q ratio. After the training of two months, significant increase of hip extension torque and H:Q ratios in the hip joint were found in the DL group, and significant increase of knee flexion torque and H:Q ratios in the knee joint were found in the LC group (P < 0.05). As a conclusion, DL and LC training could be practical for hamstrings injury prevention.