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Updated: May 10, 2026
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Muscle Imbalances: Testing and Training Functional Eccentric Hamstring Strength in Athletic Populations
Published on: May 1, 2018
Kinematic and electromyographic analysis of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise
Massimiliano Ditroilo1, Giuseppe De Vito, Eamonn Delahunt
1Department of Sport, Health & Exercise Science, Faculty of Science, University of Hull, United Kingdom. M.Ditroilo@hull.ac.uk
Summary
The Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) shows higher biceps femoris muscle activity than maximal eccentric voluntary contraction. Biomechanical analysis of NHE can monitor hamstring eccentric strength and training changes.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- The Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE) is utilized to enhance eccentric hamstring muscle contraction efficiency.
- Understanding the biomechanics of NHE is crucial for optimizing training and injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a biomechanical analysis of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise (NHE).
- To investigate the relationship between exercise velocity and muscle electrical activity during NHE.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen participants performed NHE and maximal eccentric voluntary contraction (MEVC) on an isokinetic dynamometer.
- Knee angular displacement and biceps femoris EMG were measured.
- Reliability of analyzed variables was assessed.
Main Results:
- EMG activity during NHE was, on average, 134.3% of MEVC.
- A significant negative correlation was observed between peak knee angular velocity and peak EMG.
- Reliability for most variables was good to excellent.
Conclusions:
- NHE elicits higher hamstring muscle activation compared to MEVC.
- Biomechanical analysis of NHE can serve as an indirect measure of eccentric hamstring strength.
- This analysis may help monitor training adaptations and injury-related changes in hamstring muscles.
