Strength Training

Hamstring Accessory Exercises

Targeted hamstring strengthening — curls, bridges, and isolation work that supplements the hip hinge movements for complete posterior chain development.

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1stMarathon Team
#hamstring#accessory#posterior chain#isolation

Hamstring Accessory

ExerciseEquipmentUnilateralCompoundPrimary RegionsNotes
Nordic Hamstring Curlbodyweightnonolegs_posteriorEccentric hamstring, injury prevention gold standard
Slider Hamstring Curlbodyweightnonolegs_posteriorSupine hamstring curl
Hip Hinge Isometric Holdbodyweight, kettlebells, full_gymnoyeslegs_posteriorStatic hold at bottom of hip hinge

Nordic Hamstring Curl

Eccentric hamstring exercise. Gold standard for hamstring injury prevention in runners. Strengthens hamstrings during lengthening — the exact phase where hamstring tears happen.

Equipment: bodyweight | Reps: 4-6 | Rest: 120s

Regions: Primary: legs_posterior · Secondary: core

Coaching Cues

  • Kneel with ankles secured
  • Slowly lower body forward
  • Control the descent
  • Use hands to catch if needed
  • Push back up and repeat

Common Mistakes

  • Falling too fast
  • Hips not staying extended
  • Not controlling eccentric

Slider Hamstring Curl

Supine hamstring curl using sliders. Develops hamstring strength in running-specific range.

Equipment: bodyweight | Reps: 8-12 | Rest: 60s

Regions: Primary: legs_posterior · Secondary: hips, core

Coaching Cues

  • Lie on back, heels on sliders
  • Lift hips up
  • Drag heels toward glutes
  • Keep hips elevated
  • Extend back out with control

Common Mistakes

  • Hips dropping
  • Not full range of motion
  • Moving too fast

Hip Hinge Isometric Hold

Static hold at the bottom of a hip hinge. Builds hamstring endurance in the lengthened position — training the exact range where hamstrings are most vulnerable during running.

Equipment: bodyweight, kettlebells, full_gym | Reps: 20-30 | Rest: 30s

Regions: Primary: legs_posterior · Secondary: core

Coaching Cues

  • Hinge until hamstring stretch
  • Hold position
  • Keep back flat
  • Breathe steadily
  • Drive hips to stand

Common Mistakes

  • Rounding back
  • Not holding long enough
  • Bouncing out of position

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