OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to (1) compare the effectiveness of a Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) versus single-leg Romanian deadlift (SLRDL) exercise programme on a hamstring injury risk surrogate; (2) compare the muscle soreness experienced by both exercise programmes; and (3) assess compliance to remote injury prevention exercise protocols through video software. METHODS: Twenty participants (10 women and 10 men: 21.45 +/- 1.6 years; 176 +/- 23 cm; 70 +/- 10 kg) were randomised into an NHE or SLRDL programme for 6 weeks. Single-leg hamstring bridge (SLHB), a hamstring injury surrogate, was the primary outcome for exercise efficacy. Muscle soreness and exercise adherence were also assessed. Significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Both exercises increased SLHB performance resulting in an overall effect (p = 0.013) with no effect for group (p = 0.470) and no interaction effect (p = 0.709), indicating both groups improved but there was no difference in improvement between interventions. There was no difference in muscle soreness between groups (p = 0.087). Finally, both groups had 100% adherence to the programme. CONCLUSIONS: Both the NHE and SLRDL are equally effective in increasing SLHB performance and demonstrate a similar level of muscle soreness. This suggests that SLRDL may be a viable option as a preventative exercise to mitigate the risk of hamstring injury. Finally, implementing injury prevention programmes remotely has the potential to enhance adherence.

Full text (sometimes free) may be available at these link(s):      help

• PubMed Central
• DOI
• PubMed
• PDF locator
• publisher