Sports injury prevention awareness in adolescent basketball players: is it associated with core muscle endurance?

Objective: The aim of our study is to examine the relationship between core muscle endurance and awareness of sports injury prevention in adolescent basketball players. Material and Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study. The study was conducted on 50 athletes (aged 13.5 ± 1.7 yrs). The prone bridge test and side bridge test were used to evaluate core muscle endurance. Athletes' awareness levels of sports injuries were assessed using the Sports Injury Prevention Awareness Scale. Results: A positive low-level relationship was observed between the Sports Injury Prevention Awareness Scale and the durations of the prone bridge test (r=0.349, p=0.013) and side bridge test for the dominant extremity (r=0.312, p=0.027). No significant relationship was observed between Sports Injury Prevention Awareness Scale results and the duration of the side bridge test for the non-dominant extremity (r=0.140, p=0.331). Conclusion: In conclusion, cognitive processes regarding injuries have shown a relationship between awareness and core endurance. It is important to consider both parameters together for athletes to continue their sports performance in a healthy manner.