NCT07047833

Plyometric Training With or Without Hamstring Strengthening for Preventing ACL Injuries in Female Amateur Athletes

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 60 (actual)
• Sponsor: University of Lahore · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: 18 Years – 30 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This randomized controlled trial explored the effect of plyometric training with or without hamstring strengthening in preventing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries among female amateur athletes aged 18 to 30. Sixty participants were divided equally into two groups: one received plyometric training combined with hamstring strengthening, and the other received plyometric training only. Both groups trained twice per week over a six-week period. Outcomes measured included knee strength (flexion and extension), dynamic balance (Star Excursion Test), and functional mobility (KOOS).

Detailed description

This study examined whether combining hamstring strengthening with plyometric training provides greater benefits in preventing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries than plyometric training alone among female amateur athletes. Conducted as a randomized controlled trial, the research involved 60 participants aged 18 to 30, randomly assigned to two equal groups. Group A underwent a six-week intervention involving both plyometric and hamstring strengthening exercises, while Group B participated in plyometric training only. Each group trained twice weekly, and the outcomes were measured at baseline, Week 3, and Week 6 using a handheld dynamometer for knee strength (flexion and extension), the Star Excursion Balance Test (SET) for dynamic balance, and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) for functional mobility.

Conditions

• ACL Injuries

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
BEHAVIORAL	Plyometric Training with Hamstring Strengthening	This intervention consisted of a six-week training protocol involving both plyometric exercises and targeted hamstring strengthening. Sessions were conducted twice per week, lasting 60 minutes each. Plyometric drills included squat jumps, depth jumps, and lateral jumps, while hamstring exercises included Nordic hamstring curls and machine-based leg curls. All sessions included a standardized 15-minute warm-up and a 5-minute cool-down. The program was designed to enhance lower limb strength, balance, and neuromuscular control for ACL injury prevention in female amateur athletes.
BEHAVIORAL	Plyometric Training Only	This intervention involved a six-week plyometric-only training program delivered twice weekly for 40-minute sessions. Exercises included squat jumps, depth jumps, and lateral jumps, performed with progressive intensity and control. Each session included a standardized 15-minute warm-up and a 5-minute cool-down. The program aimed to improve lower limb power, balance, and functional mobility to reduce the risk of ACL injuries in female amateur athletes.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-05-21
• Primary completion: 2025-01-30
• Completion: 2025-03-25
• First posted: 2025-07-02
• Last updated: 2025-07-02

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Pakistan