AVALIAÇÃO DO IMPACTO DO FORTALECIMENTO MUSCULAR NA PREVENÇÃO DE LESÕES EM CORREDORES AMADORES

Objective: To analyze the association between muscle strengthening practice and the occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries in amateur runners. Strength training is recognized in the literature as an effective preventive strategy, yet it remains underutilized among recreational runners. This study aims to contribute with evidence regarding its effectiveness in this population. Methods: A cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted with 60 amateur runners, evaluated through a structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic profile, running practice, strength training habits, and injury history. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and Pearson correlation (p < 0.05). Results: Among participants, 41.7% reported injuries in the last year. Injury incidence was lower among those who practiced muscle strengthening (22.7%) compared to those who did not (73.5%), with statistically significant difference. A moderate inverse correlation was found between the weekly frequency of strengthening and the number of injuries (r = –0.51; p < 0.05). The most prevalent injuries were iliotibial band syndrome, patellar tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathy. Conclusion: Muscle strengthening was associated with lower injury rates, reinforcing its role as a preventive strategy in amateur running.