Hamstring Strength and Architectural Properties Are Associated with Running Biomechanics

Applied muscular strain and hamstring strain capacity have a joint interaction on hamstring strain injury (HSI) with modifiable risk factors frequently assessed. However, to date there is limited observations on the interaction between these factors. The purpose of the present study was to observe if spatiotemporal characteristics, running kinematics and muscle activation were related to modifiable risk factors of HSI. Twenty-two competitive team sport athletes (24.7 ± 4.3 years, 1.82 ± 0.07 m, 84.9 ± 8.5 kg) participated whereby the Bicep femoris long head (BF_LH) fascicle length assessed via ultrasound and isokinetic eccentric hamstring strength was assessed. With running assessment performed at 18 km/h, capturing running kinematics and muscle activation. Multiple linear regressions were used to examine the relationship of running kinematics and muscle activation on the modifiable risk factors of HSI on. The overall model (F_2,19) was statistically significant for both relative eccentric hamstring strength (F = 23.58, p < 0.001) and BF_LH fascicle length (F = 18.87, p < 0.001) highlighting spatiotemporal characteristics, running kinematics and hamstring activation were found to be significantly related to the modifiable risk factors. There is a complex interrelationship between running mechanics and hamstring muscle properties, with the potential of either cause or consequence association.