The effect of eccentric exercise on the optimum length of hamstrings in collegiate athletes
Date
2012
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine if an eccentric exercise-training
regimen in conjunction with an athlete’s offseason exercise program can produce a
significant shift in optimum length of the hamstrings in athletes of different sports
with diverse training protocols. Thirty-one athletes were randomly assigned to an
eccentric exercise-training group (EG) or a control group (CG). Over a 7-week period
the EG performed two eccentric exercises while the CG performed a stretching
protocol over this time in addition to their normal training routine. Isokinetic-testing
was performed pre and post intervention to determine optimum length. Significant
attrition lead to an inability to report a significant group by time interaction between
the EG and CG (F1,13= 2.27, p= .156). Examination of simple main effects determined
there was a significant shift of optimum length in the EG (t= 2.725, p= .030). No
significant changes were seen in the optimum length of the CG or normalized
concentric and eccentric peak torque values in both groups. In conclusion, 7 weeks of
additional eccentric exercise training shifted the angle of peak torque closer to knee
extension in the EG, increasing the optimum length of the hamstrings in Division I
football, baseball, and lacrosse athletes.