The Effects of a Four-Week Neuromuscular Training Program on Landing Kinematics in Pre- and Post-Peak Height Velocity Male Athletes

Abstract

Neuromuscular training aims to enhance motor skill competency and increase muscle strength. However, the effectiveness of short-duration interventions focused on addressing lower limb injury risk factors in male youth athletes at different stages of maturity remains unknown. Forty-eight young male academy cricket players [pre-peak height velocity (PHV) (n = 26) and post-PHV (n = 22)] were subdivided into an experimental group (EXP) who completed a 4-week progressive neuromuscular training program and controls (CON) participating in sport training only. Changes in injury risk were examined using the Tuck Jump Assessment (TJA) and Landing Error Scoring System (LESS). Total LESS score was significantly lower in both EXP maturity groups compared to CON following the 4-week program (10 to 6 and 6 to 4 (~ 20% to 40%)) in the pre- and post-PHV EXP groups, respectively. Significant within-group reductions in total LESS score were shown for the pre-PHV EXP group only (P < 0.05). Conversely, greater changes in TJA total score were shown in post-PHV (5 to 3; 40%) versus pre-PHV EXP (6 to 4.5; 26%). Pre-PHV players showed positive changes in individual LESS criteria indicative of frontal plane control but not in knee valgus during the TJA, whereas post-PHV players did improve this criterion. This study indicates it is possible to reduce TJA and LESS scores in male youth athletes by performing a 4-week neuromuscular training program, improving landing mechanics and reducing injury risk irrespective of maturity, but their effects are somewhat influenced by stage of maturation and the task performed.