AI-Based Hamstring Injury Risk Analysis and Effects of the FUNBALL Program

AI-Based Hamstring Injury Risk Analysis and the Effects of the FUNBALL Program on Physical Performance and Cognitive Function in Professional Football Players

This study investigates hamstring injury risk in football players using artificial intelligence-based motion analysis (OpenPose) and evaluates the effects of a targeted exercise intervention (FUNBALL). Hamstring risk is assessed during a 30-m sprint using sagittal-plane video analysis, and players classified as medium or high risk receive a four-month FUNBALL program. A pre-post intervention design is employed, with sprint performance, agility, balance, jumping ability, kicking power, and cognitive function assessed using standardized field and cognitive tests.

Before the implementation of the FUNBALL program, artificial intelligence (OpenPose) based hamstring risk analysis and 30-meter sprint test, 505 agility and direction change test, modified star balance test, 5-point jump test, maximum shot distance test and cognition tests will be applied as pre-tests (18,19). AI risk analysis will be done by examining video (30 frame rate) captured with a phone camera (iPhone 14 Pro) from the sagittal (side) plane during the 240 m sprint test. The camera will be positioned 15 meters from the level of the middle of the 30-meter sprint test with the help of a tripod. It will follow the participant's run for 30 meters in motion. The football player will be asked to do a 30 m sprint with 3 repetitions and the average of 3 repetitions will be taken as a basis. According to the artificial intelligence risk analysis, the FUNBALL program will be applied to medium and high risk groups for 4 months. At the end of the Middle Program, the same parameters will be re-evaluated. Hamstring risk analysis and speed parameter will be evaluated with 30 meter sprint test, agility parameter 505 with direction change and agility test, cognition parameter with color word stroop test, n-back test and digit span test, balance and proprioception parameter with modified star balance test, jump parameter with 5-point jump test, and power parameter with maximum shot distance test.

Inclusion Criteria:

• To be a professional football player between the ages of 18-35.
• Not having a history of ligament, joint, bone, muscle or tendon injury that requires at least 2 months away from the field in the last 6 months.
• Not having an active disability.
• To have verbal and written communication skills who accept to participate in the study voluntarily and to perform exercise applications.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of an active disability
• Having a history of ligament, joint, bone, muscle or tendon injury that requires at least 2 months away from the field in the last 6 months.
• Vestibular or disconnected vision problems
• History of cancer
• Illiteracy
• Mental and cognitive disorders that may affect communication