Abstract

Aim of this study was to measure isokinetically the peak torque values per kg BW for Quadriceps (Q) and Hamstrings (H) in groups of male and female elite runners as well as the Hamstrings/Quadriceps ratio (H/Q) values by 30, 60, 180 and 300 deg/s. We discuss the results specific for the groups and we consider if there exist differences between the groups. We tested 65 top athletes (36 males, 29 females) from 6 selection groups namely a male and female sprint (S) group - a middle distance (M) group - and a long distance (L) group. The Q peak torque values are as to be expected highest in the S-group, followed by the M- and L-group. This refers to men in all angular velocities but in women only on high dynamic speed because on lower speed the M-group has higher torques than the S- and L-group. The H-peak torque values are as expected in men the highest in the S-group at all angular velocities nevertheless the L-group values are higher than the M-group values at all dynamic speeds. In women we see an identical situation as by the Q values. The H/Q ratio values increase with increasing angular velocity in all male and female selection groups and approximate 1,0 in the male L-group at 300 deg/sec. In the discussion we emphasize that dealing with insight and practical view concerning Q and H and H/Q ratio values may give information whether or not these values are optimum for each individual male and female top runner. Verf.-Referat (gekuerzt)