Seattle Seahawks Host Derek Hansen for Lecture Series

In March 2019, Derek M. Hansen conducted a specialized workshop with the medical and performance staff of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks.  The first day of the workshop covered all aspects of running mechanics related to sports performance – including acceleration, maximum velocity mechanics and specific endurance qualities and multi-directional movement training.  The science and theory behind high speed running was presented in lecture format for each module. All staff members were then shown practical demonstrations of the techniques used in the training high performance athletes. In some cases, specific variations for different position groups were outlined in detail.

On the second day, Derek covered return-to-play protocols around all lower body injuries associated with sprinting and running.  This included hamstring strains, knee injuries (ACL, MCL, meniscus), foot and ankle injuries, quadriceps strains and Achilles tendon ruptures.  In each case, specific progressions around physical exercise and locomotion were reviewed, including running drills that permitted the strengthening of desired qualities without placing excess stress on the injured tissues or joints.  The day also included a review of electrical stimulation modalities that could be used in conjunction with exercise to not only facilitate a smooth progression of work, but also enhance overall neuromuscular recruitment for transfer to the field of play.