Effects of an intermittent exercise protocol on ankle control during a single-legged landing

Abstract

Purpose: To identify the effects of fatigue from an exercise protocol (similar to a soccer match) on ankle motion and forces during single-legged drop landing. Methods: Seventeen males aged (mean ± SD) 22.2 ± 2.0 years participated in this repeated measures study. A 90-min intermittent exercise protocol with a 15-min rest at halftime was performed. Before, at halftime and after the exercise, participants were tested via a single-legged drop landing task onto a force platform whilst wearing a three-dimensional inertial measurement system (Xsens). Ankle angles (plantarflexion/dorsiflexion and inversion/eversion) were analysed before landing and at peak ground reaction force after landing, and center of pressure was analysed at peak ground reaction force. Results: No significant differences were found for the outcomes between pre-, halftime and post-exercise (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Findings suggest that exercises simulating a soccer match (regarding exertion) do not necessarily lead to significant changes in ankle motion or forces around the ankle.