Why are there so many hamstring injuries at the start of the season?

The hamstring: strength and vulnerability
The hamstrings are a group of three muscles at the back of your thigh. They flex the knee and extend the hip, crucial for explosive movements like sprinting, braking, and turning. These types of movements are common in sports like soccer, hockey, and track and field.

1. A lack of specific tax
Many athletes train less intensively in the summer or opt for other forms of exercise. The result: at the start of the season, the hamstrings are insufficiently prepared for explosive exertion. You might be fit, but not "match-ready."

2. Too rapid training build-up
Coaches and teams want to be ready for competition quickly. This means short preparation time, high training intensity, and little time for recovery. Especially if sprint and strength training are incorporated too late or not enough, the hamstrings take a beating.

What can you do to prevent hamstring injuries?
• Do targeted strength training for the hamstrings, with an emphasis on eccentric exercises.
• Build up training gradually, with sufficient rest between intensive stimuli.
• Use theHerzog compression shortsDuring competitions and recovery. The compression keeps your thigh muscles together, minimizing impact.
• Don't forget mobility: flexible hips and good core stability reduce the stress on your hamstrings.
Listen to your body. Aches and pains are warning signs; don't ignore them during preparation.

Herzog PRO Compression Shorts
The Herzog compression shorts are the perfect choice for football players because they are the only ones on the market based on three specific measurement points, ensuring a perfect fit and precise pressure distribution. In addition, the compression shorts offer graduated compression: the pressure is highest at the hamstring insertion and decreases towards the groin, ensuring optimal drainage of moisture and waste products. This contributes to faster recovery, less muscle soreness, and a lower risk of injury. It's no wonder that professional clubs likeNAC Breda, SC Heerenveen andADO The Hagueon these shorts to keep their players fit during the intensive start to the season.