High-Load Strength Training Reduces Injury Incidence and Injury Burden and Improves Physical Fitness in Young Highly Trained Soccer Players

Abstract

Background: There is little available information on the reduction of injury incidence and injury burden after strength training programs. This study aimed to analyze the effects of a 12-week high-load strength training program on injury incidence, injury burden, and fitness in young, highly trained, soccer players. Hypothesis: It was hypothesized that well-targeted high-load training focused on the gluteal and hamstring musculature could aid in injury prevention and increase physical fitness. Study Design: A randomized controlled trial design was applied, which followed the CONSORT Statement. Level of Evidence: Level 2. Methods: Twenty players were assigned randomly to the experimental group (EG, n = 10 players), who performed a high-load strength training program, or to the control group (CG, n = 10 players), who performed only their usual soccer training. Injury incidence (injuries per 1000 hours exposure) and injury burden (days of absence per 1000 hours exposure) were recorded during the intervention, as well as the physical fitness attributes before and after the training program. Results: A significant (P < 0.05) lower injury incidence was observed in the EG (CG, 11.34 vs EG, 1.31 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure) and a significant (P < 0.001) lower injury burden in the EG (CG, 304.66 versus EG, 19.72 days of absence per 1000 h of exposure). The analysis of covariance model revealed significant between-group differences favoring the EG, showing significantly greater improvements in jumping, change of direction ability, sprinting, and imbalance strength tests (P < 0.001; effect size, 3.02 to −7.23). Conclusion: This study demonstrated the beneficial effects of a 12-week high-load strength training program on injury incidence, injury burden and physical fitness, in highly trained soccer players. Clinical Relevance: This study provides positive information for implementing this type of strength training in the daily training sessions of young soccer players for both performance enhancement and injury prevention.