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

Background Employing telecommunication systems and digital platforms, athletes can continuously access tailored injury prevention protocols, receive real-time feedback on exercise performance. Objective This study aimed to assess the feasibility, adherence, and benefits of a digitally administered adaptation of the FIFA 11 + protocol in professional football players. Methods This 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. Results Fifty-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). Conclusion FIFA 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.