The Effects of an Exercise Programme on Neuromuscular Outcomes in Gaelic Sport

The Effects of an Exercise Based Injury Prevention Programme on Neuromuscular Outcomes in Gaelic Football and Hurling Players, a Randomised Controlled Trial

A randomized control trial examining the effects of an exercise based injury prevention programme on postural control and jump landing mechanics. Randomization of 4 teams, 2 Gaelic football and 2 hurling teams to exercise intervention and control groups. Participants are tested using Y Balance test and Landing Error Scoring System (LESS).

Gaelic football and hurling, a stick and ball game, are Irish amateur games components of explosiveness with the multi-directional nature of both games, in addition to the overhead activities and the high level of contact involved; makes it a high risk of injury, especially during match-play. Recent systematic reviews found that injury prevention exercise programmes can significantly reduce the relative risk of lower extremity injuries. Several studies have successfully incorporated exercise components including balance, plyometrics, strength, neuromuscular training, running and cutting movement patterns to prevent injuries in sports such as soccer, basketball, and handball.

This study examines the effect of an injury prevention programme on 2 recognized risk factors for lower limb injury balance and jump landing mechanics.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants registered on Collegiate Gaelic football or hurling team, which trained at least twice per week.
• To be over the age of 18 years
• No current injuries

Exclusion Criteria:

• Injuries of the lower limb preventing training or completing the testing