Mixed
Strength training significantly reduces the risk of both acute and overuse sports injuries in athletes, with injury risk reduction being dose-dependent on volume and intensity.
Incorporate strength training into your routine to prevent injuries. It doesn't need to be extreme; focus on gradual increases in volume (repetitions) and intensity (weight). Start with a technique phase, then progress. It is safe for adolescents and adults, and studies show it reduces injury risk by more than half. Ensure you have qualified supervision and allow for adequate rest (approx. 72 hours for beginners).
Increasing strength training volume and intensity were associated with sports injury risk reduction. A 10% increase in strength training volume reduced the risk of injury by more than four percentage points.
Why this rating
Systematic review of 6 RCTs with 7738 participants, high certainty of evidence (GRADEpro), no publication bias, consistent results.
Source
Strength training as superior, dose-dependent and safe prevention of acute and overuse sports injuries: a systematic review, qualitative analysis and meta-analysis
Jeppe Bo Lauersen et al. · British Journal of Sports Medicine · 2018
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