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Position- and Angle-Specific Variation in the Bilateral Deficit in Hamstring Isometric Strength: A Comparative Analysis

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigated how varying body positions (seated, prone, supine) and knee joint angles (90°, 120°, 150°) influence the bilateral deficit (BD) in isometric hamstring strength. Thirty physically active participants (15 males, 15 females) performed unilateral and bilateral maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) across the tested position × angle conditions. Peak force (Fmax) and rate of force development (RFD) measures (RFDmax, RFD50 ms, and RFD200 ms) were recorded. Results indicated that the seated position elicited a greater bilateral deficit (i.e., lower BD ratios) than the prone and supine positions, with differences that were more pronounced at more extended knee angles. These findings underscore the importance of considering position- and angle-specific influences when assessing BD in hamstring strength. Clinicians and researchers should standardize testing protocols to ensure accurate evaluation and data interpretation. From an applied standpoint, the results support the development of resistance-training strategies aimed at enhancing hamstring function at long muscle lengths—an approach relevant to both performance optimization and injury prevention.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app16062852

Authors: Aleksandar Rajkovic, Amador García-Ramos, Nejc Šarabon, Olivera M. Knežević, Dragan M. Mirkov

Institutions: University of Belgrade, Universidad de Granada, Universidad Católica de la Santísima Concepción, University of Primorska, Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Rehabilitation Research

Language: English

Topic: Sports Performance and Training

Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896