The Effect of Sportsmetrics for Soccer on Performance and Knee Valgus during Landing in Female Players

Introduction: Dynamic knee valgus and poor technique during landing are not only key risk factors for lower extremity injuries especially knee injury, it also can reduce performance. Sportsmetrics soccer training is one of the successful knee injury prevention and enhancement performance protocols in female soccer players. But, the effect of Sportsmetrics soccer training has not been investigated on performance and knee valgus during landing in female soccer players. This study was done with purpose of investigating this subject. Methods: Present field-trial study consists of 24 female soccer players with dynamic knee valgus that randomly divided into two groups, training group (TG) and control group (CG). The assessment tests contain: T agility test, 40-yard test, vertical jump test, double leg squat test and valgus during landing error scoring system test. The TG participated in Sportsmetrics soccer training regularly for six weeks and three sessions a week about 90 minutes. ANCOVA test was used to analyze the statistical data (P <0.05). Results: After six weeks Sportsmetrics soccer training in TG not only reduced dynamic knee valgus during landing (51% reduction, F: 171.8, P: 0.01), but also performance factors significantly improved which these factors included agility (0.50s reduction, F: 23.29, P: 0.01), power (2.50cm increase, F: 13.20, P: 0.01) and speed (0.30s reduction, F: 23.66, P: 0.01). Conclusion: Sportsmetrics soccer training is strongly suggested to soccer players were exposed to knee injuries due to dynamic knee valgus during landing.