The effect of pilates training on knee functional tests in youth female volleyball player.

INTRODUCTION

Knee ligament injuries, particularly anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, are prevalent among athletes, especially females aged 15 to 25. This study aimed to assess the effects of an 8-week Pilates training program on knee functional tests in youth female volleyball players, focusing on improving neuromuscular control and reducing injury risk.

METHODS

Thirty female volleyball players were randomly assigned to either a Pilates training group (n = 15) or a control group (n = 15). The Pilates group underwent three 50-minute sessions per week, focusing on core strength and stability. Functional assessments included the Landing Error Scoring System (LESS) and the tuck-jump test, conducted pre- and post-intervention.

RESULTS

The Pilates training significantly reduced errors in the LESS (p = 0.001), overall tuck-jump assessment (p = 0.02), ligament dominance (p = 0.02), foot dominance (p = 0.03), and trunk dominance (p = 0.001). However, there was no significant interaction between groups and time for quadriceps dominance of tuck jump assessment (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that an 8-week Pilates training program effectively enhances knee functional performance and movement patterns in female athletes. Overall, the results support the incorporation of Pilates as a valuable component of athletic training programs aimed at improving knee function and preventing injuries in female athletes.