Comparison of conventional hamstring/quadriceps ratio between genders in level-matched soccer players

Abstract

Objectives
\nThe main goal of our study is to compare the hamstring/quadriceps (H/Q) ratio at different knee angles between level-matched male and female soccer players and to determine whether differences in the H/Q ratio exist between the dominant and the non-dominant leg.
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\nMethods
\nA cross-sectional study design was used to compare an isometric H/Q ratio and functional isokinetic ratio (between hamstring in eccentric contraction and quadriceps in concentric contraction) between males (n = 14) and females (n = 14). These ratios were studied at two different speeds of movement (60° s−1 and 180° s−1) and in five different positions (40°, 50°, 60°, 70° and 80° degrees of knee flexion).
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\nResults
\nOur results showed no differences in the H/Q ratio between genders. The ratio in the dominant leg showed an average of 9% higher values. The ratios were an average of 53.4% lower in positions near flexion than in positions near extension.
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\nConclusions
\nFor both men and women, the results showed lower ratios in the non-dominant leg compared to the dominant leg. At higher velocities, the force ratios were higher, while in more knee-flexed positions, the ratios were lower. Finally, we did not find differences in ratios between men and women