Traditional and Band-Assisted Nordic Hamstring Training Improves Knee Flexor Strength and Hip Range of Motion
L. B. Callis, Anthony D Kay, Brett A. Baxter · Journal of Science in Sport and Exercise · 2026
Abstract
Purpose: To compare the training effects of traditional (TRAD) and band‑assisted (NHE ASSIST ) Nordic Hamstring Exercise on knee flexor force‑length characteristics, NHE execution, and hip range of motion (ROM).
Methods: Forty-five male ( n = 24) and female ( n = 21) collegiate athletes were recruited from a variety of sports (soccer, basketball, Gaelic football, rugby, athletics, and netball) to partake in a twice-weekly 8-week TRAD or NHE ASSIST training programme; 30 participants completed the intervention with ≥ 80% adherence. Knee flexor force production capacity (eccentric and isometric [at various lengths]), NHE execution, and hip ROM were examined pre- and post-training. Soreness was self-reported up to 48 h post-training using a visual analogue scale.
Results: No significant ( P > 0.05) group × time interaction effects nor main effects of group were revealed for any metric. Main effects of time revealed significant increases in eccentric (17% ± 19%) and isometric force at longer muscle lengths (180° [full extension] and 150° knee flexion; 9%–12% ± 20%–22%), break point angle (10 ± 11°), impulse (139% ± 159%), and hip flexion ROM (5 ± 6°) in both groups after training; larger effect sizes occurred within NHE ASSIST compared to TRAD regarding force production capacity, break point angle, impulse, and hip flexion ROM.
Conclusion: Eight weeks of NHE improved knee flexor strength (particularly at longer muscle lengths), NHE execution, and hip flexion ROM. NHE ASSIST did not confer statistically different adaptations than TRAD; however, early‑phase soreness was transiently lower within NHE ASSIST . Larger, standardised, and mechanistically informed trials are warranted to determine whether assistance meaningfully augments adaptations.