Progressive Workload Periodization Maximizes Effects of Nordic Hamstring Exercise on Muscle Injury Risk Factors. Issue 4 (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Severo-Silveira, Lucas; Dornelles, Maurício P.; Lima-e-Silva, Felipe X.; Marchiori, César L.; Medeiros, Thales M.; Pappas, Evangelos; Baroni, Bruno M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of strength and conditioning research. Volume 35:Issue 4(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: eccentric training -- hamstring injury -- injury prevention -- rugby; Physical education and training -- Periodicals; Weight training -- Physiological aspects -- Periodicals; Physical fitness -- Periodicals; 613.7
• DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000002849
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1064-8011

Abstract

Abstract : Abstract: Severo-Silveira, L, Dornelles, MP, Lima-e-Silva, FX, Marchiori, CL, Medeiros, TM, Pappas, E, and Baroni, BM. Progressive workload periodization maximizes effects of Nordic hamstring exercise on muscle injury risk factors. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 1006–1013, 2021—This study aimed to investigate the effect of 2 different Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) training programs (constant workload vs. progressive workload) on multiple risk factors for hamstring strain injury in high competitive level athletes. Twenty-one premier league rugby union players (∼26 years) were randomized into 1 of 2 experimental groups and completed an 8-week NHE training program: constant training group (CTG) or progressive training group (PTG). Knee flexor/extensor strength and biceps femoris long head (BFLH ) muscle architecture were assessed through isokinetic dynamometry and ultrasonography, respectively, before and after the training programs. Increased hamstring concentric (Δ = 8%, p = 0.004, d = 0.42) and eccentric (Δ = 7%, p = 0.041, d = 0.39) peak torques, as well as H:Q conventional (Δ = 7%, p = 0.015, d = 0.54) and functional (Δ = 6%, p = 0.026, d = 0.62) ratios were observed in the follow-up compared with baseline for the PTG group only. Nordic hamstring exercise training significantly increased BFLH muscle thickness (CTG: Δ = 7%, p = 0.001, d = 0.60; PTG: Δ = 7%, p < 0.001, d = 0.54) and fascicle length (CTG: Δ = 8%, p < 0.001, d = 0.29; PTG: Δ = 10%, p < 0.001, d = 0.35) in both groups. Training adaptations on hamstring peak torque (concentric and eccentric) and H:Q ratio (conventional and functional) "likely favor" PTG, whereas changes in BFLH fascicle length "possibly favor" PTG. In conclusion, only PTG enhanced hamstring strength; both NHE training programs increased BFLH muscle thickness and fascicle length, but progressive training generated greater changes on fascicle length than constant training. Medical/coaching staff should be aware that NHE with adequate training periodization with workload progression to maximize its benefits.