Effects of the FIFA 11+ injury prevention program on lower limb strength and balance

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of the injury prevention program FIFA 11+ (level 2) application, on lower limb balance ability and strength, as an effective approach of reducing injury risk in male soccer players. Thirty-two players were randomly divided into two groups (N = 16 each), one control group (CON group), and one training group (INT group). The INT group followed the FIFA 11+ injury prevention program, 3 times per week for 8 weeks. The CON group continued the usual warm-up. Biodex Stability System was used to assess balance ability in both groups at baseline and after the completion of FIFA 11+ program. Additional isokinetic knee joint moment measurements (concentric flexors/extensors and eccentric flexors) performed at two different angular velocities, first at 60°/s and then at 180°/s. Statistical significant differences were found, after the completion of the FIFA 11+ training program, in stability index (total and anterior – posterior) (p < .05), in concentric and eccentric flexors strength (p < .05) and conventional H/Q ratio (p < .05). Application of the FIFA 11+ injury prevention program for 8 weeks can improve lower limbs balance ability and hamstrings muscle strength, elements which are very important for prevention of hamstring muscle strains and lower limb ligament injuries in soccer.