Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
08:26
Comparative Analysis of Lower Limb Kinematics between the Initial and Terminal Phase of 5km Treadmill Running
Published on: July 17, 2020
Decrease in eccentric hamstring strength in runners in the Tirol Speed Marathon
A Koller1, G Sumann, W Schobersberger
1Department of Sports Medicine, University of Innsbruck Medical School, Innsbruck, Austria. arnold.koller@uklibk.ac.at
British Journal of Sports Medicine
|July 11, 2006
Summary
Overground running, like a marathon, leads to eccentric hamstring fatigue. This fatigue may increase the risk of knee injuries, suggesting a need for specific hamstring training.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Local muscular endurance, particularly eccentric knee flexor strength, is crucial for maintaining running kinematics during treadmill exercise.
- However, the transferability of these findings to overground running scenarios remains uncertain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between overground running and the development of eccentric hamstring fatigue.
Main Methods:
- Thirteen runners completed an isokinetic muscle assessment before and after a marathon.
- The protocol included concentric and eccentric contractions of the quadriceps and hamstrings for both legs.
Main Results:
- Eccentric peak hamstring torque significantly decreased in both thighs post-marathon.
- No significant changes were observed in other measured parameters.
Conclusions:
- Marathon running is linked to eccentric hamstring fatigue.
- This fatigue could be a risk factor for running-related knee and soft tissue injuries.
- Eccentric hamstring training should be incorporated into runners' training regimens.
