STRENGTH AND ITS IMPORTANCE IN INJURY PREVENTION

Abstract

Muscle injuries may result from strength imbalance, especially in athletes’ lower extremities. Therefore, it is crucial to establish the balance between strengths of muscle groups, besides muscle strength itself. Core stability exercises that enable the equilibrium between lower extremity and bodily muscles were found to significantly reduce lower extremity injuries. Muscle strength and muscle strength balance training (core stability) exercises, and eccentric hamstring exercises performed especially pre-season, were found to significantly reduce injury and re-injury rates, both in competitions and during training. It has also been demonstrated that knee injury rates are especially higher in women compared with males. Exercises that provide knee stability reduced the frequency of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Strength and muscle-balance workouts performed prior to competition will both prevent injuries and significantly reduce the healing period of injuries and the re-injury rates. The subject is discussed in view of current literature.