| This study was performed to examine the hamstring:quadriceps (H:Q) ratios of female soccer athletes, and to test the effects of a six week strength training program on these ratios. Twelve NCAA Division I female soccer athletes volunteered for this study. Subjects completed two practice sessions, a pretest, six weeks of strength training, and a posttest. The isokinetic pre and posttesting was performed on a KIN-COM® dynamometer, with the trials in a set order (concentric 240, 180, 60°/s and eccentric 60, 180, 240°/s). Gravity correction was used on all trials. The H:Q strength ratio was examined conventionally (concentric hamstrings:concentric quadriceps) and functionally (eccentric hamstrings:concentric quadriceps). Both conventional and functional ratios showed significant differences in the non-dominant and dominant legs, and angular velocities (60, 180, 240°/s). Functionally, there was a significant difference in the pre to posttest strength ratios. Conventionally, there was no significant difference in the pre to posttest strength ratios. These findings show that the six week strength training program elicited significant functional improvements in the H:Q strength ratio. |
