Effects of personalized strength training on isokinetic muscle strength and balance ability among fencers with chronic ankle instability

Evaluating the effects of personalized strength training on isokinetic muscle strength and balance ability in fencers with chronic ankle instability (CAI), focusing on functional outcomes and rehabilitation efficacy. Twenty-one fencers with CAI were randomly assigned to three groups: a control group (CG, n = 7), a standardized strength training group (SG, n = 7), and a personalized strength training group (PG, n = 7). During the six-week intervention, training sessions were performed three times per week. Isokinetic muscle strength was assessed at 30°/s and 120°/s with concentric and eccentric ankle eversion. Balance ability was measured using the single-leg stance (with eyes open and closed) and Y-balance tests. Functional performance was evaluated using the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT). The personalized strength training group presented significant improvements in eccentric eversion peak torques at 30°/s (p < 0.001) and 120°/s (p = 0.004) and the dynamic control ratio (DCR) at 30°/s (p = 0.001) and 120°/s (p = 0.012). In terms of balance ability, this group demonstrated apparent improvements in the single-leg stance test with eyes closed (p = 0.000) and a trend toward improvement in dynamic balance in the Y-balance test. Additionally, this group showed a highly significant increase in CAIT scores (p < 0.001), indicating enhanced functional stability. By comparison, no evident improvements were observed in the control and standardized strength training groups. Personalized strength training is more effective than standardized programs in improving isokinetic muscle strength, balance ability, and functional stability in fencers with CAI. The findings suggest that incorporating personalized strength training into rehabilitation protocols can enhance recovery efficiency and injury prevention among athletes with CAI.