Sex Differences Exist in the Relationship Between Vertical Jump Performance Biomechanical Parameters and Hamstring/Quadriceps Ratio in Adolescent U18 Track and Field Athletes

Abstract

Isokinetic metrics are suggested to be related to vertical jump performance, but little is known about the possible sex differences in this relationship in adolescent track and field athletes. The aim of the study was to examine the possible sex differences in the strength of the relationship between the kinetic parameters of the vertical squat jump with arms akimbo, the countermovement jump with arms akimbo, and the countermovement jump with free arm swing with the isokinetic parameters of the knee extensor and flexor muscles (angular velocities: 60°/s and 300°/s). In total, 35 (males: 21, females: 14) U18 track and field athletes were examined. The results revealed that the Men U18 group had higher vertical jump performance, higher values in the kinetic parameters of the vertical jump tests, higher knee extensor torque, and higher knee flexor torque in the non-dominant leg compared to the Women U18 group. Significant (p < 0.05) sex differences were observed in the relationship between the isokinetic parameters and the vertical jump performance metrics, as the Women U18 athletes relied more on the knee flexor torque than Men U18 athletes, and demonstrated a stronger negative relationship between selected isokinetic metrics and the pre-stretch gain in the vertical jump tests. In conclusion, it is recommended that young female track and field athletes minimize interlimb asymmetry and improve the convention ratio in their non-dominant leg to optimize vertical jump performance.