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European Journal of Applied Physiology

Published in:

01-05-2017 | Original Article

The effect of Nordic hamstring strength training on muscle architecture, stiffness, and strength

Authors: Kayla D. Seymore, Zachary J. Domire, Paul DeVita, Patrick M. Rider, Anthony S. Kulas

Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology | Issue 5/2017

Abstract

Purpose

Hamstring strain injury is a frequent and serious injury in competitive and recreational sports. While Nordic hamstring (NH) eccentric strength training is an effective hamstring injury-prevention method, the protective mechanism of this exercise is not understood. Strength training increases muscle strength, but also alters muscle architecture and stiffness; all three factors may be associated with reducing muscle injuries. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of NH eccentric strength training on hamstring muscle architecture, stiffness, and strength.

Methods

Twenty healthy participants were randomly assigned to an eccentric training group or control group. Control participants performed static stretching, while experimental participants performed static stretching and NH training for 6 weeks. Pre- and post-intervention measurements included: hamstring muscle architecture and stiffness using ultrasound imaging and elastography, and maximal hamstring strength measured on a dynamometer.

Results

The experimental group, but not the control group, increased volume (131.5 vs. 145.2 cm³, p < 0.001) and physiological cross-sectional area (16.1 vs. 18.1 cm², p = 0.032). There were no significant changes to muscle fascicle length, stiffness, or eccentric hamstring strength.

Conclusions

The NH intervention was an effective training method for muscle hypertrophy, but, contrary to common literature findings for other modes of eccentric training, did not increase fascicle length. The data suggest that the mechanism behind NH eccentric strength training mitigating hamstring injury risk could be increasing volume rather than increasing muscle length. Future research is, therefore, warranted to determine if muscle hypertrophy induced by NH training lowers future hamstring strain injury risk.

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Title: The effect of Nordic hamstring strength training on muscle architecture, stiffness, and strength
Authors: Kayla D. Seymore
Zachary J. Domire
Paul DeVita
Patrick M. Rider
Anthony S. Kulas
Publication date: 01-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Journal of Applied Physiology / Issue 5/2017
Print ISSN: 1439-6319
Electronic ISSN: 1439-6327
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-017-3583-3

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The effect of Nordic hamstring strength training on muscle architecture, stiffness, and strength

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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