Introduction: The isokinetic hamstring-to-quadriceps strength ratio is a key predictor of hamstring injuries in soccer. This study examined the effect of an eight-week "Football Plus" program on this ratio in young male amateur players.
Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 30 players were divided into experimental and control groups. The experimental group performed the Football Plus program as a warm-up twice weekly for eight weeks, while the control group continued their traditional warm-up. Isokinetic strength of the muscles was measured at 60°/s and 180°/s before and after the intervention, and conventional and functional ratios were calculated.
Results: Data analysis revealed that the functional H/Q ratio at 60°/s in the left leg showed a significant between-group difference (p = 0.009). Similarly, this ratio at 180°/s in the left leg was also significant between groups (p = 0.002). Six other variables, including conventional and functional ratios at different speeds for both legs, showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups.
Conclusion: Implementing the eight-week Football Plus program can improve the functional hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio in amateur soccer players. Although the program did not alter conventional strength ratios, its use as a warm-up routine could be a practical and effective strategy for injury prevention. The findings support incorporating structured warm-up programs like Football Plus into regular training to enhance muscle balance and potentially reduce injury risks in amateur athletes.