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ARTICLE TYPE : RESEARCH ARTICLE

Published on :   05 Nov 2025, Volume - 1
Journal Title :   WebLog Journal of Sports Medicine and Physiotherapy | WebLog J Sports Med Physiother
Source URL:   weblog iconhttps://weblogoa.com/articles/wjsmp.2025.k0501
Permanent Identifier (DOI) :  doi iconhttps://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17614026

Influence of Pushing Versus Holding Isometric Exercises at Different Joint Angles on Hamstring-Quadriceps Strength Ratio and Functional Performance: A Time-Under-Tension Approach to Injury Risk Reduction

Ram Kumar E 1 *
Murali Ravi 2
Suvathi R 3
Jenish J. Khristi 5
1Department of Physiotherapy in Sports Science, Faculty of Physiotherapy, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (MAHER), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
2Assistant Professor, College of Physiotherapy, Sri Venkateswaraa University, Redhills, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
3Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology, College of Physiotherapy, SRM Institute of Science & Technology, Tiruchirapalli Campus, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
4Sports Physiotherapist and Researcher, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (MAHER), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
5Physiotherapist, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research (MAHER), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Background: The hamstring-to-quadriceps (H:Q) strength ratio is a critical determinant of knee stability, functional performance, and injury prevention. Optimizing this ratio is essential for reducing injury risk, particularly among athletes and physically active individuals. Isometric training, characterized by pushing and holding exercises, is commonly used to enhance strength. However, the comparative effects of these two methods at different joint angles, particularly within the framework of time under tension (TUT), remain underexplored.

Objective: To compare the effects of pushing versus holding isometric exercises at varying knee joint angles on H:Q strength ratio, functional performance, time under tension (TUT), and perceived exertion among recreational athletes.

Methods: Thirty participants were randomly allocated into two groups—pushing or holding isometrics—and trained for six weeks using a time-under-tension protocol. Pre- and post intervention assessments included the H:Q ratio (via hand-held dynamometry), Single-Leg Hop Test, Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT), TUT, and Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE).

Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in H:Q ratio, hop performance, and SEBT scores (p < 0.05). The pushing group showed greater gains in H:Q ratio and hop distance, while the holding group exhibited longer TUT and enhanced balance control. RPE scores were higher in the pushing group, indicating greater exertion demands.

Conclusion: Both pushing and holding isometric protocols effectively enhanced lower limb strength and function. Pushing isometrics were more effective for improving the H:Q ratio and explosive performance, whereas holding isometrics better enhanced dynamic balance and muscular endurance. Incorporating joint angle–specific isometric training may serve as a strategic tool for tailored rehabilitation and injury prevention.

Keywords: Isometric Exercise; Hamstring–Quadriceps Ratio; Dynamic Balance; Time Under Tension; Rehabilitation; Athletic Performance

Citation

Ram Kumar E, Murali Ravi, Suvathi R, Nivetha M, Jenish J. Khristi. Influence of Pushing Versus Holding Isometric Exercises at Different Joint Angles on Hamstring-Quadriceps Strength Ratio and Functional Performance: A Time Under-Tension Approach to Injury Risk Reduction. WebLog J Sports Med Physiother. wjsmp.2025.k0501. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17614026
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