The Effect of 6 Week Hamstring Exercise Programs on Hamstring Muscle Function and Performance in Female Athletes
The Effect of 6 Week Hamstring Exercise Programs on Hamstring Muscle Function and Performance in Female Athletes
This study aims to compare the effect of two hamstring strengthening programs on hamstring muscle strength in female university athletes. 60 participants will be recruited for this study. They will be randomly assigned to one of two 6-week hamstring strengthening programs, namely the single leg bridge exercise and the Nordic hamstring exercise protocol, and one control group. Eccentric and isometric hamstring strength, gluteal strength and will sprint speed will be measured before and after the intervention.
Participants will be recruited from the local university sports clubs. Club chairpersons will be asked to send an email to club players. Players interested in participating in the study will be asked to attend a meeting where the study will be explained to them. Those who were interested will then be assessed for inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Group allocation:
A four block randomization method will be used to allocate participants to the Nordic hamstring exercise protocol or the single leg bridge protocol.
Interventions:
The Nordic hamstring exercise program or the single leg bridge program.
Testing procedure:
The eccentric strength of the participants' hamstrings and hip extensors will be recorded before and after the exercise intervention.
30 metre sprint performance will be recorded before and after the intervention. A 10 point visual analogue scale will be used to record the level of muscle soreness experienced after each training session.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: