Adherence
The acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR) is a valid predictor of injury risk, with ratios between 0.8 and 1.3 representing a 'sweet spot' for low injury risk, and ratios >= 1.5 representing a 'danger zone'.
Calculate your athlete's average load from the past 3-6 weeks (chronic). Compare this week's load (acute) to that average. If the ratio is above 1.5, you are in the 'danger zone' and likely to cause injury. Aim to keep the ratio between 0.8 and 1.3. If the ratio is below 0.8, the athlete may be detraining and also at increased risk.
acute:chronic workload ratios within the range of 0.8–1.3 could be considered the training 'sweet spot', while acute:chronic workload ratios ≥1.5 represent the 'danger zone'.
Why this rating
Supported by multiple studies across different sports (cricket, rugby, soccer) showing consistent risk patterns.
Source
The training—injury prevention paradox: should athletes be training smarter<i>and</i>harder?
Tim J. Gabbett · British Journal of Sports Medicine · 2016
DOI 10.1136/bjsports-2015-095788
More from this paper
Related findings · Adherence
- Regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes/week of moderate-intensity) reduces all-cause and cardiovascular mortality by 20-30% and lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes by 25-35%.Strong
- Increasing physical activity from a sedentary lifestyle to an active one in middle adulthood significantly reduces the risk of coronary events compared to remaining sedentary.Strong
- Resistance exercise is the only intervention capable of consistently restoring muscle function and strength in sarcopenia, partially overcoming age-related anabolic resistance.Strong
This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →