Differences in VMO:VL Ratio by Squat Jump Type and Gender

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

We are designed to investigate gender-specific differences in muscle activation around the knee joint during squat jumps and single-leg squat jumps. The vastus medialis (VM), vastus lateralis (VL), biceps femoris, and semitendinosus muscle activities of 11 males and 9 females were measured using electromyography (EMG).
Results revealed that males had significantly higher VM:VL and hamstring-to-quadriceps (H:Q) ratios than females across all conditions. Females exhibited reduced VM activation, as indicated by lower VM:VL ratios, and a greater reliance on quadriceps activation, as shown by lower H:Q ratios, particularly during single-leg squats. Anatomical factors, such as an increased Q-angle in females, contribute to muscle imbalances, compromising knee joint stability and increasing the risk of injuries like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. These findings highlight the need for targeted training, including hamstring strengthening and VM activation, for female athletes to improve knee stability and reduce injury risks. Future research should focus on long-term muscle activation patterns across diverse sports scenarios.