although in doing some reading about prevention you are definitely correct that proprioception and biomechanics are emphasized over simple strength training...
quote:The study conducted by the CDC on a program developed by Santa Monica, Calif., orthopedist Bert Mandelbaum preliminarily showed a one-third reduction in NCAA Division I women's college soccer players, though the figures could change.
The common denominators in these ACL prevention programs:
• Improving balance, especially on a single leg.
• Focusing on avoiding the vulnerable, knock-kneed position when landing, stopping and cutting.
• Strengthening of the core muscles around the pelvis, including the hamstring or back of the thigh.
definitely seems that improving technique is a major factor - which i guess doesn't help when you're crashing or landing awkwardly...
quote:To help athletes improve proprioception and understand proper biomechanics, Hewett utilizes state-of-the-art 3D motion analysis in his Cincinnati Children's Hospital Lab in addition to a comprehensive neuromuscular program.
"The changes you can get in six to eight weeks are enormous," Hewett says, "though you don't need a $2 million lab. You can get100-200% changes. The kids and women that benefit the most are the medium- to low-range athletes, in the lower three-fourths talent range.