Effects of hamstring resistance training on peak torque and H/Q ratio in male university students

Title : Effects of hamstring resistance training on peak torque and H/Q ratio in male university students

Abstract:

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects on the hamstring/quadriceps ratio (H/Q ratio) and H/Q ratio fatigue index (H/Q FI) of the knee joint of an 8-week resistance training to improve the hamstring muscles of male university students.
Methods: Twenty male university students were divided into two groups: an exercise group (EG) and a control group (CG). The EG participated in an 8-week hamstring resistance training program, working out twice a week, 60 min per session, with a 60–80% 1RM and 12–16 RPE intensity. The peak torque and H/Q ratio were measured, and a t-test was used to verify the statistical significance of the difference between the pre- and post-intervention results.
Results: The right flexor peak torque at 60°/sec increased by 14.10±9.60%BW in the EG and decreased by −9.00±16.55%BW in the CG, showing a significant difference between the groups (p<0.01). The left flexor peak torque increased by 6.60±12.31%BW in the EG and decreased by −5.10±10.68%BW in the CG, showing a significant difference between the groups (p<0.05). The left extensor peak torque decreased by −5.40±19.53%BW in the EG and by −28.40±25.70%BW in the CG, showing a significant difference between the groups (p<0.05). The H/Q ratios tended to increase, but the difference was not significant.
Conclusion: To prevent injuries and stabilize the knee joint, the central joint of the lower extremity that plays an important role in daily life and sports activities, hamstring weight training can be performed to maintain the H/Q ratio within the normal range.

Audience Take Away:

• The hamstrings/quadriceps (H/Q) ratio is a comparison between the strength or activation level of the muscles at the back of the thigh (hamstrings) and those at the front (quadriceps). It's an important metric in sports science, rehabilitation, and injury prevention, particularly in contexts like knee stability and lower limb injury risk assessment.
• Strengthening the hamstrings relative to the quadriceps can help stabilize the knee joint and improve overall function during recovery.
• The H/Q ratio serves as a valuable tool in assessing and addressing muscle imbalances around the knee joint, with the aim of promoting both injury prevention and athletic performance.

Biography:

Mrs. Hyun-Joo Kang studied exercise physiology at the Seoul National University, graduated as MS in 1998. She then worked the research group of prof. Stewart at the Johns Hopkins Medical School and Cardiac Rehabilitation Center, USA in 2003. She received her PhD degree in 2004 at the Seoul National University. After six months postdoctoral fellowship supervised by Dr Jenson at the Mayo Clinic and Endorine Research Center, USA. She obtained the position of an professor at the Soonchunhyang University. She is interested in clinical exercise presription and program for patients with chronic diseases.