Lachlan P. James

Injury risk management plan for volleyball athletes.

Volleyball is an increasingly popular team sport. As with any competitive sport, there is an inherent risk of injury that must be recognized and collaboratively managed. This article provides a practical approach to the management of volleyball injuries within a team or organization. A brief review of the epidemiological data is presented which establishes (i) ankle sprain, (ii) shoulder overuse injury, (iii) patella tendinopathy, and (iv) anterior cruciate ligament injury as the primary injuries to address amongst these athletes. The interaction of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for these injuries are used to classify athletes into high-, medium- and low-risk groups. Targeted training interventions are suggested, based upon the risk level of the athlete, to minimize the occurrence of these injuries. Practical methods for integrating these activities into a training plan are also discussed.

An evidenced-based training plan for Brazilian jiu-jitsu

ABSTRACT BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU (BJJ) IS A GRAPPLING-BASED COMBAT SPORT, WHICH HAS GROWN CONSIDERABLY IN POPULARITY IN RECENT YEARS. DESPITE THIS INCREASED INTEREST, THERE ARE NO PROPOSED TRAINING STRATEGIES BASED ON PRIMARY PHYSIOLOGICAL DATA GATHERED FROM BJJ ATHLETES. PRESENTED HERE IS A DETAILED PERIODIZED TRAINING PLAN FOR BOTH THE ELITE AND SUBELITE BJJ COMPETITOR, WHICH DRAWS UPON PRIMARY RESEARCH INTO THE SPORT. THIS STRATEGY CONSIDERS THE EFFECTIVE PAIRING OF PHYSIOLOGICALLY COMPATIBLE TRAINING MODALITIES, IN ADDITION TO THE DESIGN OF ENERGY SYSTEM-SPECIFIC CONDITIONING TASKS. ALSO DISCUSSED ARE METHODS FOR MANAGING THE TRAINING LOAD TO ENSURE OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE FOR COMPETITION.

Identifying the performance characteristics of a winning outcome in elite mixed martial arts competition

OBJECTIVES To determine those performance indicators that have the greatest influence on classifying outcome at the elite level of mixed martial arts (MMA). A secondary objective was to establish the efficacy of decision tree analysis in explaining the characteristics of victory when compared to alternate statistical methods. DESIGN Cross-sectional observational. METHODS Eleven raw performance indicators from male Ultimate Fighting Championship bouts (n=234) from July 2014 to December 2014 were screened for analysis. Each raw performance indicator was also converted to a rate-dependent measure to be scaled to fight duration. Further, three additional performance indicators were calculated from the dataset and included in the analysis. Cohens d effect sizes were employed to determine the magnitude of the differences between Wins and Losses, while decision tree (chi-square automatic interaction detector (CHAID)) and discriminant function analyses (DFA) were used to classify outcome (Win and Loss). RESULTS Effect size comparisons revealed differences between Wins and Losses across a number of performance indicators. Decision tree (raw: 71.8%; rate-scaled: 76.3%) and DFA (raw: 71.4%; rate-scaled 71.2%) achieved similar classification accuracies. Grappling and accuracy performance indicators were the most influential in explaining outcome. The decision tree models also revealed multiple combinations of performance indicators leading to victory. CONCLUSIONS The decision tree analyses suggest that grappling activity and technique accuracy are of particular importance in achieving victory in elite-level MMA competition. The DFA results supported the importance of these performance indicators. Decision tree induction represents an intuitive and slightly more accurate approach to explaining bout outcome in this sport when compared to DFA.

Validity and reliability of a portable isometric mid-thigh clean pull

Abstract James, LP, Roberts, LA, Haff, GG, Kelly, VG, and Beckman, EM. Validity and reliability of a portable isometric mid-thigh clean pull. J Strength Cond Res 31(5): 1378–1386, 2017—This study investigated the test-retest reliability and criterion validity of force-time curve variables collected through a portable isometric mid-thigh clean pull (IMTP) device equipped with a single-axial load cell. Fifteen males with ≥6 months of resistance training experience attended two testing sessions. In each session, participants performed an IMTP in 2 separate conditions in a randomized counterbalanced manner. The criterion condition consisted of a closed-chain IMTP configured with a force plate (IMTPf), whereas the experimental test was undertaken using a portable IMTP with data acquired through a single-axial load cell (IMTPl). A very high reliability (coefficient of variation [CV] = 3.10, 90% confidence interval [CI]: 2.4–4.6%; intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.96, 90% CI: 0.90–0.98) and acceptable validity (CV = 9.2, 90% CI: 7–14%; ICC = 0.88, 90% CI: 0.71–0.95) were found in the experimental condition for the measure of peak force. However, significant differences were present between the IMTPf and IMTPl (p < 0.0001). Alternate force-time curve variables did not reach acceptable levels of validity or reliability in the experimental condition. The IMTPl is a valid and highly reliable method for assessing peak force. This provides evidence supporting the use of an IMTPl as a cost-effective and portable alternative for those who wish to assess maximal force production in a similar fashion to a traditional IMTP. However, practitioners should be aware that these are slightly different tests.

The impact of strength level on adaptations to combined weightlifting, plyometric and ballistic training

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the magnitude of adaptation to integrated ballistic training is influenced by initial strength level. Such information is needed to inform resistance training guidelines for both higher‐ and lower‐level athlete populations. To this end, two groups of distinctly different strength levels (stronger: one‐repetition‐maximum (1RM) squat = 2.01 ± 0.15 kg·BM−1; weaker: 1.20 ± 0.20 kg·BM−1) completed 10 weeks of resistance training incorporating weightlifting derivatives, plyometric actions, and ballistic exercises. Testing occurred at pre‐, mid‐, and post‐training. Measures included variables derived from the incremental‐load jump squat and the 1RM squat, alongside muscle activity (electromyography), and jump mechanics (force‐time comparisons throughout the entire movement). The primary outcome variable was peak velocity derived from the unloaded jump squat. It was revealed that the stronger group displayed a greater (P = .05) change in peak velocity at mid‐test (baseline: 2.65 ± 0.10 m/s, mid‐test: 2.80 ± 0.17 m/s) but not post‐test (2.85 ± 0.18 m/s) when compared to the weaker participants (baseline 2.43 ± 0.09, mid‐test. 2.47 ± 0.11, post‐test: 2.61 ± 0.10 m/s). Different changes occurred between groups in the force‐velocity relationship (P = .001‐.04) and jump mechanics (P ≤ .05), while only the stronger group displayed increases in muscle activation (P = .05). In conclusion, the magnitude of improvement in peak velocity was significantly influenced by pre‐existing strength level in the early stage of training. Changes in the mechanisms underpinning performance were less distinct.

The impact of power clean ability and training age on adaptations to weightlifting-style training

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether weightlifting actions are a viable method for improving athletic performance amongst weaker, inexperienced lifters when compared to individuals with a greater power clean result, and hence weightlifting ability and experience. Two groups of males with distinctly different power clean performances (higher performance (HP): N = 8; BM = 78.1±4.0 kg; 1RM PC = 1.08±0.09 kgBM; lower performance (LP): N = 8; BM=82.6±14.0 kg; 1RM PC=0.78±0.1 kg·BM) and resistance training age (HP: resistance training experience=3.5±1.2 years; LP: resistance training experience=1.44±1.50 years) undertook 10 weeks of training involving weightlifting derivatives, in addition to supplemental ballistic and plyometric exercises. Testing of athletic performance (represented by measures derived from the countermovement jump) occurred at baseline, after five weeks of training, and after ten weeks of training. Both groups significantly improved across the majority of outcome variables following training (Hedges g=0.98-2.55, P≤0.01-0.05). Only the HP participants experienced significant changes at mid-test (g = 0.99-1.27, P ≤ 0.01-0.05), while no significant changes were revealed between mid- and post-test in this group. In contrast to this, the LP participants displayed a significant improvement in relative impulse (g=1.39, P<0.01) and rate of force development (g=1.91, P<0.01) during this final period (P<0.01). As weaker, inexperienced lifters underwent a significant and meaningful enhancement in maximal neuromuscular measures following weightlifting derivative focused training, practitioners should consider early implementation of such exercises. However, it is important for coaches to note that a delayed training effect might be present in weaker, less experienced lifters.

Physiological determinants of mixed martial arts performance and method of competition outcome

This investigation sought to determine the relevance of anaerobic and aerobic-based measures to competition level and bout outcome in mixed martial arts competitors. For the primary analysis, seven higher-level and eight lower-level male mixed martial arts competitors were compared across a series of short-term anaerobic (sprints at 10 and 20 m), repeated maximal effort (repeated sprint ability), and intermittent aerobic tests (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 2)). For the secondary analysis, data were then pooled so relationships could be explored between test performance and percentage of bouts reaching a decision. Cohens d effect sizes and qualitative magnitude-based inferences were calculated to describe the differences between groups. These same descriptors were used to interpret the output of the regression analysis used to predict decision percentage. Superior performances by the higher-level group were revealed across most variables to a non-trivial magnitude. Furthermore, it was likely that a decrease in short-term anaerobic performance or an increase in intermittent endurance capacity positively related to an increased likelihood of bouts lasting the full scheduled duration. These findings indicate the importance of anaerobic and aerobic qualities to mixed martial arts performance and combat methods.

Using the Evidence Available to Inform Practice and Direct Future Research.

As the title of our article states: ‘‘Towards a Determination of the Physiological Characteristics Distinguishing Successful Mixed Martial Arts Athletes: A Systematic Review of Combat Sport Literature’’, our objective was to examine the available literature to further our understanding of the factors that underpin MMA performance, while providing much needed guidance for the training process despite the paucity of direct information about the sport. Additionally, our article was never intended to be considered the final word on the topic, but rather to act as a foundation from which future original research can draw. Specifically, in alignment with the objectives of a systematic review, our article has the potential to assist researchers develop methodologies to address previously unanswered questions [3]. Such questions are highlighted in our review. Andreato and Branco state ‘‘such results cannot be extended to MMA specifically’’ [1]. However, in the absence of primary data from MMA, these findings must be extended to the sport if informed training decisions are to be made. If they are not, then these decisions are not made based upon the best evidence currently available. If the logic presented by Andreato and Branco is upheld, then the current body of literature has no value whatsoever in informing MMA training practices. This would lead to one of two consequences: (1) training would be based entirely on heuristic beliefs or anecdotal reports; or (2) no training would occur at all. Clearly, this creates a conundrum for the practitioner as such strategies would result in performances that are suboptimal at best or catastrophic at worst. Andreato and Branco go on to state that the combat sports of Muay Thai and kickboxing were not considered [1]. This contention is inaccurate on two counts. First, although no articles representing these sports met the inclusion criteria, this does not mean they were not considered in our systematic review. Muay Thai and kickboxing were systematically searched for on the basis of the delimitations present. Based upon the nature of the systematic review process, tight controls were placed on the inclusionary criteria for articles in the primary analysis of Authors’ reply to Andreato and Branco: ‘Different Sports, but the Same Physical and Physiological Profiles’.

Effects of long-term external counterpulsation therapy on performance, recovery and systemic vascular adaptations in elite rugby league players

Although injury rates between elite female and male players are comparable, female players are more likely to sustain an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) (Walden et al., 2011, Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy, 19, 11–19). A common mechanism of ACL injury is non-contact trauma sustained when landing from a jump. The Tuck Jump Assessment (TJA) uses 10 criteria to identify technique flaws when jumping and landing (Myer et al., et al., 2008, Athletic Therapy Today, 13, 39–44) although interrater reliability has been challenged (Dudley et al., 2016, Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 30, 1510–1516). The aim of this study was to identify commonly occurring technique JOURNAL OF SPORTS SCIENCES s37 flaws during the TJA and to determine inter-rater agreement for each criterion and the composite score. Following institutional ethical approval, 60 female soccer players were recruited from one international squad (mean (SD): age = 20.27 ± 3.44 years; height = 168.02 ± 5.26 cm; mass = 62.54 ± 6.33 kg). Video recordings (sagittal and coronal plane) of each player undertaking the TJA on an artificial 4G playing surface were taken. Four raters (2 physiotherapists and 2 strength and conditioning coaches) independently assessed each TJA criterion post hoc (flaw present = 1 point, flaw absent = 0 points) and the composite score calculated for each player. There were 665 technique flaws. Criterion 2 “Thighs do not reach parallel” was most common (N = 147/665), followed by criterion 1 “Knee valgus on landing” (N = 80/665). Criterion 9 “Pause between jumps” was least common (N = 23/665).The most common fault category was “Knee and thigh motion” (N = 234/720, 32.5% composite of 3 criteria weighted for maximum possible faults). There were clinically acceptable levels of agreement between raters for “Lower extremity valgus at landing”, k = .83 (95% CI, .72–.93); “Thighs do not reach parallel (peak of jump)”, k = .84 (95% CI, .74–.94); “Thighs not equal side to side”, k = .86 (95% CI, .75–.96). The level of agreement for the composite score of all 10 criteria ranged from kw = .62 (95% CI, .48–.76) to kw = .80 (95% CI, .70–.90) suggesting a “fair-to-very good” level of inter-rater agreement. The “knee and thigh” motion category of the TJA may provide the most useful information for knee mechanics and potential risk factors for knee injury. We recommend its use for screening elite female soccer players.The advancements in micro-technology have enabled the quantification of external load in many team sports using GPS derived data. However, it has been proposed that an accelerometer derived variable, such as player load (PL), may provide a superior measurement system (Boyd, Ball, & Aughey, 2011, International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 6, 311-321). The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between PL and distance covered in hockey competition. With institutional ethics approval, 25 elite male hockey players wore tracking devices in 8 international matches. Players were classified into 3 positional groups (defenders, midfielders and forwards). Absolute and relative values were determined for PL and distance. The Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient (r) was calculated to determine the relationship between PL and distance. The Fisher Z test was used to compare the relationships between groups. There were very large correlations between absolute distance and load for all positions (r = 0.902-0.956, P < 0.01) and overall (r = 0.910, P < 0.01). The absolute distance to load relationship was not different between positions. There were very large correlations between relative distance and load for all positions (r = 0.702-0.927, P < 0.01) and overall (r = 0.872, P < 0.01). The relative distance to load relationship was weaker in defenders compared with midfielders (Z = 3.48, P = 0.0005) and forwards (Z = 2.14, P = 0.0324). The strong relationships between these variables suggest that PL is simply a proxy for distance covered and it appears to be heavily influenced by the vertical accelerations that occur during foot strike at any running speed. Therefore, additional research is required to examine how PL can be modified to fully represent all hockey specific activities. The numerical spread of data may have influenced the positional relationships for the relative values.Concussion occurs following a forceful impact to the brain inducing sudden trauma, and may lead to chronic physical, cognitive and/or emotional impairments (Kerr et al, 2013, SAGE, 7, 138-153). As physical activity patterns increase across recreational teams, high schools, colleges, and at professional level, so do the amount of sports - related concussions (SRC) (Fraas et al, 2014, Irish Journal of Medical Science, 184, 425-430). In amateur university sports where participation is high (Kasamatsu et al, 2016, Athletic Training and Sports Health Care, 8, 112-120), there is a lack of data on the awareness level of SRC among athletes and coaches. Therefore, this investigation sought to evaluate concussion knowledge among university level athletes and coaches. Following institutional ethical approval, forty healthy male rugby union (n = 20) and Gaelic football (n = 20) players (age: 22 ± 2 years and 21 ± 1 years, respectively; playing experience: 7.5 ± 1 and 5.0 ± 1 years, respectively) (mean ± s) and eight male coaches from Gaelic football, rugby union, soccer, hockey, netball, and basketball (age: 23 ± 2 years; coaching experience: 6.0 ± 1 years) (mean ± s) completed two validated surveys (Cusimano et al, 2009, Canadian journal of neurological sciences, 36, 315-320; McKinlay, Bishop and McLellan, Brain injury, 25, 761-766) examining knowledge of concussive signs, symptoms, management and return to play guidelines. Respondents had significant misconceptions surrounding SRC; 35% of athletes believed that a player must lose consciousness to suffer from a concussion and 20% believed that it was safe to play with a concussion. About 40% of rugby union athletes believed players could return to play two days after suffering a concussion. Despite having greater concussion knowledge in comparison to the athletes, 25% of coaches did not know how to identify a concussion and 25% were unaware of the return to play guidelines. Rugby union and Gaelic football athletes exhibited a similar sub-optimal level of concussion knowledge. In summary, a marked number of athletes and coaches hold misconceptions surrounding concussive signs and symptoms. Additionally, a number were unaware of the management procedure and return to play guidelines post-concussion. There is a need for educational concussion strategies to be implemented in university sport, to maximise the health and safety of those participating. However, the effectiveness of such an educational programme requires further investigation prior to implementation (Fraas & Burchiel, 2016, European Journal of Sports Sciences, 1-7).Shooting is one of the key technical skills required by wheelchair basketball players (Zwakhoven, Evaggelinou, Daly, & Vanlandewijck, 2003, European Bulletin of Adapted Physical Activity, 2 (3)). Previous studies have focused on examining the technique of free-throw shooting (Goosey-Tolfrey, Butterworth, & Morriss, 2002, Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly, 19, 238–250); however, free-throws only equate to approximately 15–22% of the total number of shots taken during a game (Gomez, Perez, Molik, Szyman, & Sampaio, 2014, Journal of Sports Sciences, 32 (11), 1066–1075). To date, no attempts have been made to explore the determinants of two-point and three-point shooting. This study explores the key determinants of two-point and threepoint shooting and develops a valid prediction model. Following ethical approval, footage of all of the twopoint and three-point shots taken when the top five teams played each other (nine games; 1144 shots) at the 2015 Men’s European Wheelchair Basketball Championships was analysed in SportsCode (version 10, SportsTec Ltd). A valid and reliable shooting specific performance analysis template was developed by three elite wheelchair basketball coaches and the lead researcher (Inter-operator reliability ± 1: 0.00%; Intraoperator reliability ± 1: 0.00%). The template contained 61 action variables within 20 categories: Point, Quarter, Match Status, Classification, Shot Hand, Shot Handed, Shot Type, Shot Clock, Pre-Shot, Shot Movement, Shot Positioning, Zone, Pressure, Number of Defenders, Defender Marking-Shooting Hand, Defender Marking-Non-Shooting Hand, Defender Marking-Space and Defenders Positioning-Defender In Front, Defenders Positioning-Defender Behind and Defenders Positioning-Defender on Side. Chi-squared test highlighted seven categories were significant (P < 0.001) when shot outcome was compared (successful versus unsuccessful). The Shot Positioning category was the most significant category and produced a P-value of 2.2e-16. The forward selection method was used and a 30% sample of the data set selected to create a shooting specific generalised linear regression model that involved 10 categories. The model was tested against the entire data set and an area under the curve value of 0.850 was achieved. The model demonstrated that when an athlete was able to “catch and shoot” in a “square to basket” position whilst “stationary” and taking a “set shot” from the “two-point centre long” zone whilst a defender is placing “no pressure” on the shooter the individual achieved a 96.87% success rate. The findings provide objective evidence of the key determinants of shooting success. Coaches are able to utilise this information to adjust training sessions and game strategies to meet the needs of the performer.Intensive strength-training (ST) can result in exercise induced muscle damage (EIMD), which commonly leads to reductions in acute muscle function. Post-exercise ingestion of carbohydrate and protein mixtures attempt to attenuate the effects of EIMD. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of whey-protein-hydrolysate and milk-based formulated drinks on recovery of muscle function following ST. Thirty resistance-trained males (age: 25.2 ± 5.5 years, mass: 79.4 ± 8.4 kg, stature: 1.77 ± 0.45 m) provided written informed consent to participate. The study was approved by the local ethics committee inline with Helsinki Declarations. Participants were randomly equally assigned to either; whey-hydrolysate and dextrose drink (WH), milk-based drink (MB), flavoured dextrose (PLACEBO) and performed baseline assessments of perceived muscle-soreness (SORENESS), static-squat jump (SSJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), seated medicine-ball throw (MBT) and isokinetic assessments of the knee-extensors and flexors. Subsequently, participants performed a ST session consisting of various multi-joint barbell exercises. Participants then consumed either WH, MB or PLACEBO 10 min following ST, subsequently repeating all assessments 24 h and 48 h post-ST. In relation to within-group changes, all groups experienced substantial increases in SORENESS at 24 h and 48 h (P < 0.001). However, for dynamic power measures (SSJ, CMJ and MBT), PLACEBO experienced a decrease for only CMJ at 48 h (−1.8 cm), whereas WH and MB experienced significant decreases across SSJ (WH; −3 cm at 24 h, MB; −2.6 cm at 24 h, −2.0 cm at 48 h), CMJ (WH; −2.4 cm at 24 h, MB; −3.7 cm at 24 h, −3.3 cm at 48 h) and MBT (WH; −0.25 m at 48 h, MB; −0.33 cm at 24 h, −0.38 m at 48 h) (P < 0.05). All groups experienced significant decreases in isokinetic-extension torque at both 24 h and 48 h; however, flexion torque was decreased for PLACEBO only at these time points (24 h: −10 N · m, 48 h: −13 N · m) (P < 0.05). Isokinetic-extension power and work were significantly decreased at 24 h and 48 h for both WH [Power (24 h: −18 W, 48 h: −13 W) Work (24 h: −30 J, 48 h: −22 J)] and PLACEBO [Power (24 h: −15 W, 48 h: −14 W) Work (24 h: −25 J, 48 h: −28 J)] (P < 0.05); however, no decreases occurred for MB. Flexion power was significantly decreased for only PLACEBO at 24 h and 48 h (24 h: −7 W, 48 h: −6 W) (P < 0.05). Decreases in flexion work occurred across all conditions at 48 h, but only for PLACEBO at 24 h (WH, 48 h: −6 J) (MB, 48 h: −15 J) (PLACEBO, 24 h: −11 J, 48 h: 13 J) (P < 0.05). Consumption of WH or MB had no effect on recovery of dynamic power-producing ability or soreness compared to PLACEBO. However, WH and MB seemingly had positive effects on recovery of isokinetic muscle-function.Common mental disorder (CMD) have a high prevalence in retired rugby players (Gouttebarge, Kerkhoffs and Lambert, 2015, European College of Sports Science, doi.org/10.1080/17461391:2015.1086819). The physical, psychosocial and organisational stressors Rugby Football League (RFL) players experience may all contribute to inducing symptoms of CMD. The aim of this study was to assess RFL players’ perceived level of welfare support and to explore the experiences of Player Welfare Officers (PWO) attached to RFL’s Super League. This two year, mixed-methods project, commissioned by the RFL Player Welfare Director was undertaken with institutional ethics approval. The quantitative phase utilised an anonymised internet based survey to assess players’ perceptions of welfare support and aspects of mental health. Independent t-test results from the first survey (n=75) indicate a significantly higher risk of depression with higher stress levels (t(73) = 5.88 p<0.001) and with higher athletic identity (t(73) = 2.00 p<0.4). Players at low risk of depression reported more positive attitudes towards welfare policy (t(74) = 2.26 p<0.2). Better mental health was found when the club had a PWO, if they knew who the PWO was and if they knew how to access counselling services (second year survey results to follow, n=196). The qualitative phase utilised semi-structured interviews and were analysed using Template Analysis (Brooks, McCluskey, Turley and King, 2015, Qualitative Research in Psychology, 12(2), 202-22). In the first year 11 PWOs were interviewed, 12 in the second year. PWOs perceived the services they provided to be a potentially valuable asset for players. The uptake depended on the level of support from the club. The attitude of the coaching staff determined whether players were given time to access the PWO and whether or not this was seen as a valuable use of their time: “the PWO is only as important as the club want it to be...you need the backing of the coach in certain situations and you need time to build that relationship”. The PWOs have seen a cultural shift over the last year towards their role, and the services they signpost on to, being seen as more acceptable. The results suggest that the PWO’s role is integral to supporting RFL players’ mental health. This requires a full-time, not part-time role, and central funding from the RFL. This change would be advantageous in both increasing the time PWOs have available to support players, and the recognition of the value of the service they provide.

Injury prevention strategies for mixed martial arts

ABSTRACT THE FULL CONTACT NATURE OF MIXED MARTIAL ARTS GIVES RISE TO A CONSIDERABLE INJURY RISK THAT MUST BE ADDRESSED. THIS ARTICLE IDENTIFIES THE MOST COMMON PREVENTABLE INJURIES IN THE SPORT AND DESCRIBES WHICH ATHLETES MAY BE AT INCREASED RISK. PRACTICAL INTERVENTIONS ARE PROVIDED TO MINIMIZE THE OCCURRENCE OF THESE INJURIES. ADDITIONALLY, METHODS FOR INTEGRATING THESE TASKS INTO A TRAINING PLAN TO INCREASE COMPLIANCE ARE SUGGESTED.