Abstract
Hamstring strain injuries are one of the most common sports injuries, especially in sprinting sports (Liu, Garrett, Moorman, & Yu, 2012). Hamstring strength imbalance quantified via hamstring strength asymmetry or by a hamstring to quadriceps ratio is a commonly proposed risk factor for hamstring strains (Liu, et. al., 2012; Freckleton & Pizzari, 2012). Knowledge concerning the relationship among hamstring to quadriceps isokinetic ratios, speed, and power in sprinting athletes can assist in the development of training protocols and injury prevention strategies. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify the relationship between hamstring/quadriceps (H:Q) isokinetic strength ratios and its correlation with lower extremity power and speed field test measures. METHODS: Participants for this study included 10 NCAA Division I Track Athletes who compete in sprinting events. Peak torque (PT) was determined using an isokinetic dynamometer at speeds of 60 and 180 degrees per second in both hamstrings and quadriceps. Power was measured using the standing broad jump test and vertical jump test. Speed was assessed using light gates to measure sprint speed at 5, 10, 20, and 40 meter increments. A correlational approach was used to identify relationship between isokinetic measures with measures of lower extremity power and speed. RESULTS: Significant correlations (p<0.05) were found between peak torque (PT) values and most field tests (vertical jump, standing broad jump, and 40 meter sprint speed). However, there was no significant correlation (p<0.05) between H:Q ratios and field test measures (vertical jump, standing broad jump, and 40 meter sprint speed). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study confirm that PT values correlate highly with field test measures used to assess power and speed. Unexpected findings include the lack of significant correlation between H:Q ratios and field test measures. Therefore, future research should focus on examining adjusted H:Q ratio values using body weight and lean mass of participants. Answering these questions could assist sport performance professionals in program development, and sports medicine personnel with injury prevention interventions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
