The immediate effect of the combined FIFA11+ and change of direction training on knee valgus angle during cutting in male soccer players: A pilot study
Keywords:
knee valgus angle, FIFA11+ prevention program, COD training, cutting movement testAbstract
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the FIFA11+ training program combined with change of direction (COD) training on reducing knee valgus angle and improving balance in soccer players.
Materials and Methods: Six participants were randomly assigned 3 participants into the experimental group (FIFA11+ with COD training) and 3 participants into the control group (FIFA11+ only). Knee valgus angles were measured using 2D video analysis, which demonstrated reliability and validity in assessing knee kinematics.
Results: The experimental group reduced the mean of knee valgus angle (KVA) from 25.2±7.0 to 21.0±2.3, and the control group reduced from 20.1±9.8 to 19.7±1.7 on the left leg. The results showed that the experimental group exhibited what seemed to be reductions in knee valgus angle compared to the control group. However, due to the small sample size, these changes were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Despite this limitation, the observed trends suggest that the combined FIFA11+ and COD training program may have potential benefits in enhancing knee biomechanics and preventing injuries. Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended to confirm these preliminary findings and to explore the long-term effects of such interventions. Overall, integrating reliable measurement techniques with targeted training programs offers a comprehensive approach to improving knee health and performance in soccer players.
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