Relationship among maximum hip isometric strength, hip kinematics, and peak gluteal muscle force during running

Abstract

ObjectiveTo determine if there is a relationship among isometric hip strength, hip kinematics, and peak gluteal muscle forces in cross-country runners during running. DesignCross Sectional. SettingUniversity Biomechanics Laboratory. ParticipantsForty-six NCAA Division III collegiate cross-country runners (18 males, 28 females). Main outcome measuresPearson correlation coefficients were used to describe relationships among isometric hip strength, hip kinematics, and peak gluteal muscle forces during the stance phase of running. Strength of correlations were interpreted as little to no relationship (r < 0.25), fair relationship (0.25 ≤ r < 0.5), moderate relationship (0.5 ≤ r < 0.75), and strong relationship (r ≥ 0.75). Correlations were considered significant if p < 0.05. ResultsLittle to no relationships were found among isometric hip strength and gluteal muscle forces during running (r < 0.25). A fair relationship was present between prone external rotation isometric hip strength and peak hip adduction (0.25 <r < 0.5). Little to no relationship was shown between gluteus medius force and hip internal rotation. Moderate relationships were present among peak gluteus medius and minimus muscle forces and peak hip adduction (0.5 <r < 0.75). ConclusionIsometric hip strength does not appear to be related to gluteal muscle forces and hip kinematics during the stance phase of running while gluteal muscle force was moderately related to hip adduction. Factors other than strength may be related to muscle force production and hip kinematics during running.