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ObjectivesTo investigate the relationship between predicted risk of injury based on the dichotomous classification of the weight-bearing lunge (WBL) test scores and variables related to jumping and sprinting ability in young athletes. Furthermore, to compare the impact of the classical dichotomous classification versus a more specific quartile subdivision of the WBL test scores on the explored variables.DesignCross-sectional study.Participants125 healthy athletes (mean age 10.38 (SD = 2.28) years) were recruited.Main outcome measuresAnkle dorsiflexion was evaluated with the WBL test, jumping distance with the standing long jump (SLJ) test, and maximal running speed with the 14-m and 28-m sprint test.ResultsAthletes with WBL test scores lower than 10 cm exhibited significantly poorer results for the SLJ test as well as lower 14-m and 28-m sprint times than those with WBL test scores higher than 10 cm (p < 0.05). Likewise, when WBL test scores were subdivided by quartiles, a positive trend between range of motion and improved performance was shown.ConclusionsReduced ankle dorsiflexion mobility may affect sprinting and jumping ability in young athletes. In addition, a more detailed classification of ankle restriction by quartiles is proposed in this study in order to prevent injury and enhance athletic performance.
Cerrillo-Sanchis et al. (Tue,) studied this question.