Effectiveness of a telemonitoring injury prevention protocol on athletic performance in elite footballers: A randomized prospective controlled study

BackgroundEmploying telecommunication systems and digital platforms, athletes can continuously access tailored injury prevention protocols, receive real-time feedback on exercise performance.ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the feasibility, adherence, and benefits of a digitally administered adaptation of the FIFA 11 + protocol in professional football players.MethodsThis multicenter randomized prospective controlled study involved football players aged 15-40 from Italy and Switzerland, recruited between May 2023 and February 2024. Participants were randomly assigned to either the Intervention group (FIFA 11 + protocol administered digitally) or the Control group (traditional in-person FIFA 11 + protocol). Both groups performed the protocol twice a week for six months. Primary outcomes included the Illinois Agility Test, Slalom Dribbling Test, Multistage 20 m Shuttle Run Test (MSRT), and muscle strength tests for the hamstrings.ResultsFifty-five players participated: 27 in the Intervention group (mean age 20.63) and 28 in the Control group (mean age 20.25). Both groups showed significant improvements in hamstring strength, sprint performance, and MSRT outcomes (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of strength, heart rate response, perceived exertion, or agility (p > 0.05).ConclusionFIFA 11 + protocol has been shown to be effective as the in-person version for improving physical performance and preventing injuries in football players. Further research is needed to explore this approach in broader settings.