Which of the following is a component of NSCA's injury-prevention approach that specifically targets hamstrings?

• A. Plyometric-only training
• B. Eccentric hamstring work
• C. Endurance running focus
• D. Isolation training for arms

Answer: (B)

Focusing on eccentric hamstring work targets the exact muscle action most at risk during sprinting. When a sprinter’s hamstrings lengthen to slow the limb in late swing, they experience high eccentric forces. Training them eccentrically—moving the muscle while it lengthens—improves how much force the muscle can absorb and tends to lengthen its fascicles, which reduces the likelihood of injury during high-speed runs. Exercises like Nordic hamstring curls are a classic NSCA-recommended way to build this specific strength pattern.

The other options don’t isolate or prioritize the hamstrings in the same way. Plyometric-only training benefits overall power and joint stiffness but isn’t specifically hamstring-focused. Endurance running emphasis isn’t tailored to preventing hamstring injuries in sprinting, and isolating training for the arms targets different tissues altogether.