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A 10‐week randomized trial comparing eccentric vs. concentric hamstring strength training in well‐trained soccer players
Author(s) -
Mjølsnes Roald,
Arnason Arni,
østhagen Tor,
Raastad Truls,
Bahr Roald
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
scandinavian journal of medicine and science in sports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.575
H-Index - 115
eISSN - 1600-0838
pISSN - 0905-7188
DOI - 10.1046/j.1600-0838.2003.367.x
Subject(s) - concentric , hamstring , eccentric training , eccentric , physical therapy , physical medicine and rehabilitation , medicine , hamstring injury , randomized controlled trial , strength training , training (meteorology) , mathematics , surgery , poison control , injury prevention , physics , geometry , environmental health , meteorology , quantum mechanics
Purpose: To compare the effects of a 10‐week training program with two different exercises – traditional hamstring curl (HC) and Nordic hamstrings (NH), a partner exercise focusing the eccentric phase – on muscle strength among male soccer players. Methods: Subjects were 21 well‐trained players who were randomized to NH training ( n =11) or HC training ( n =10). The programs were similar, with a gradual increase in the number of repetitions from two sets of six reps to three sets of eight to 12 reps over 4 weeks, and then increasing load during the final 6 weeks of training. Strength was measured as maximal torque on a Cybex dynamometer before and after the training period. Results: In the NH group, there was an 11% increase in eccentric hamstring torque measured at 60° s −1 , as well as a 7% increase in isometric hamstring strength at 90°, 60° and 30° of knee flexion. Since there was no effect on concentric quadriceps strength, there was a significant increase in the hamstrings:quadriceps ratio from 0.89±0.12 to 0.98±0.17 (11%) in the NH group. No changes were observed in the HC group. Conclusion: NH training for 10 weeks more effectively develops maximal eccentric hamstring strength in well‐trained soccer players than a comparable program based on traditional HC.