Effect of warm-up exercise on the prevention of lower limb muscle injuries

Abstract

Muscle injuries directly disrupt the muscle fiber, causing pain and physical disability, and are a common problem in both amateur and professional athletes, mostly occurring in the lower limbs. This study highlights the effectiveness of warm-up exercises or programs such as "FIFA 11+" that combine stretching, strength and balance exercises to reduce injuries in young athletes. For the research, a systematic review was conducted in March and April 2024, consulting academic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Scielo, WoS, Elsevier and Google Scholar. Keywords such as "warm-up exercises" and "muscle injury prevention" were used. Inclusion and exclusion criteria ensured the relevance and quality of the selected studies. As results the regular implementation of these warm-up programs can significantly reduce the incidence of lower extremity muscle injuries. Evidence shows that these exercises prepare athletes physically and contribute to increased physical performance, such as speed, agility and balance, which helps to reduce the occurrence of injuries. Overall, this article highlights the importance of incorporating appropriate warm-up exercises into sports warm-up routines to prevent lower limb muscle injuries.