Variability of the Sprint Step Movement Pattern and Its Association with Hamstring Injury Risk.

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Science
• Injury Prevention

Background:

• Investigated kinematic variations in repeated 50m sprints.
• Examined movement stability and hamstring injury risk in sprinters.
• Compared elite versus sub-elite athletes' sprint performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze kinematic parameter changes during repeated sprints.
• To correlate sprint mechanics with hamstring injury risk.
• To differentiate between elite and sub-elite sprinter characteristics.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen male sprinters (elite/sub-elite) performed four 50m sprints.
• OptoJumpNEXT system measured step length, frequency, ground contact, and flight time.
• Survey assessed hamstring injury history and prevention strategies.

Main Results:

• Elite sprinters exhibited faster times, higher step frequency, and shorter ground contact times.
• 89% of athletes reported prior hamstring injuries, often in late swing phase.
• Fatigue during the fourth sprint repetition increased injury risk.

Conclusions:

• Elite sprinters' stable mechanics may lower hamstring strain risk.
• Sub-elite sprinters' movement variability and fatigue increase injury vulnerability.
• Understanding these differences can inform targeted injury prevention strategies.