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Effects of repeated sprinting on hamstring shear modulus pattern and knee flexor neuromuscular parameters
Ricardo Pimenta1,2, Tomás Lopes3, José Pedro Correia4
1CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, Universidade de Lisboa, Estrada da Costa, 1499-002, Cruz Quebrada - Dafundo, Lisboa, Portugal. rjl.pimenta@gmail.com.
Scientific Reports
|August 3, 2023
Summary
Repeated sprinting significantly reduces speed and knee flexor strength, indicated by decreased peak torque and early rate of torque development. Hamstring muscle shear modulus increased in the biceps femoris long head post-sprinting.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Biomechanics
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Repeated sprint ability is crucial in many sports.
- Understanding the physiological changes in hamstring muscles after intense exercise is important for performance and injury prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the acute effects of a maximal repeated sprint protocol on hamstring muscle shear modulus.
- To assess changes in knee flexor neuromuscular parameters, including peak torque and rate of torque development.
Main Methods:
- 18 healthy males performed a 10x30m repeated sprint protocol.
- Hamstring muscle shear modulus was measured using shear wave elastography.
- Knee flexor neuromuscular parameters (peak torque, rate of torque development) were assessed before and after sprinting.
Main Results:
- Average sprint speed decreased by 9% between the fastest and slowest sprints.
- Significant reductions in peak torque and early rate of torque development (0-50ms, 50-100ms) were observed.
- An increase in the active shear modulus of the biceps femoris long head was noted post-sprinting, while other hamstring muscles showed no significant change.
Conclusions:
- Maximal repeated sprinting acutely impairs neuromuscular function and alters hamstring muscle mechanical properties.
- The biceps femoris long head exhibits increased stiffness after repeated sprints, suggesting localized muscle adaptation or fatigue.
