Dynamic Hop Test: An Assessment of Eccentric Strength

The dynamic hop test is used to determine deficiencies in the structural balance of your lower body. It reveals information about the eccentric strength of the following muscle groups:

• Quadriceps, most notably the VMO, or vastus medialis oblique. This muscle is also referred to as the tear drop quadriceps.
• Hamstrings, comprised of three separate muscles – semimembranosus, semitendinosus, and biceps femoris. These muscles make up the back of the upper leg.
• Adductors, or muscles that run along the inside of the thigh.
• Abductors – the muscles that run along the outside of the thigh and glutes.
• Lower back.

The dynamic hop test measures the lower body’s functional ability to absorb force quickly while maintaining structural integrity. The test requires that you hop off of a box of progressive heights and land on one foot.

Upon hopping off the box, your muscles are forced to contract instantaneously and forcefully. Deformations in the landing – hopping forward, heel bouncing around, knee caving inward, etc., are sources of eccentric weakness. When two distinct issues are identified, the test is concluded. These problems are corrected with the proper strength training program design and implementation.