Comparison of Eccentric Training on Injury Prevention and Hamstring Strength in Football Players

Hamstrings injuries are common among footballers with a higher prevalence rate in male footballers. Despite the relatively high incidence of hamstring injuries in sports, no clear prevention methods have been identified. Most hamstring muscle injuries occur during an eccentric phase of any activity. Eccentric hamstring training has been used for injury prevention in recent years. The two distinguishing characteristics of eccentric muscle contractions have been well understood: 1) great force output; and 2) low energy cost to produce the force. Due to these distinguishing characteristics, eccentric exercise is widely used in injury prevention programs. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of eccentric training as compared to conventional training in hamstring muscle injury prevention and strengthing in football players.