Relationship between ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and sprinting and jumping ability in young athletes

To 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.

Cross-sectional study.

125 healthy athletes (mean age 10.38 (SD = 2.28) years) were recruited.

Ankle 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.

Athletes 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.

Reduced 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.