Comparing the effects of differential learning, self-controlled feedback, and external focus of attention training on biomechanical risk factors of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in ahletes : a randomized controlled trial
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Abstract
The current study aimed to compare the possible effects of differential learning strategy,
self-controlled feedback, and external focus of attention on kinetic and kinematic risk factors of
anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in athletes. Forty-eight male athletes from three sports of
handball, volleyball and basketball were selected for this study and were randomly divided into
four groups: differential learning (n = 12), self-control feedback (n = 12), external focus (n = 12), and
control (n = 12) group. All groups followed the intervention for eight weeks with three sessions
per week. Data were analyzed by means of 4 × 2 repeated measures ANOVA followed by post hoc
comparison (Bonferroni) at the significance level of p ≤ 0.05. A significant group × time interaction
and the main effect of time was found for most kinetic and kinematic variables. The main effect
of the group was significant only at the knee abduction angle. Differential learning and external
focus of attention methods positively reduced the kinetic and kinematic variables that are considered
risk factors for ACL injury. However, the effect sizes (Cohen’s d) for the changes in most of the
variables were larger for the differential learning group. Tailoring the boundary conditions that are
based on the manipulations created in the exercise through variability and variety of movements
associated with differential learning methods rather than repeating movements could reduce the risk
of ACL injury.
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International journal of environmental research and public health, 19, 16, MDPI, Basel, 2022, https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191610052