Consensus-based guidelines for intervention protocols targeting the foot spring mechanism during landing: A modified...

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics and Exercise Physiology
• Sports Science and Rehabilitation

Background:

• Optimizing foot energetic function is crucial for landing tasks in sports and physical activity.
• Current literature lacks consensus on specific exercises and prescription guidelines for foot training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish expert consensus on exercise selection and prescription for enhancing the foot's energetic function during landing.
• To identify effective exercises and parameters for training foot spring and energy recycling.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi methodology involving three rounds of questionnaires.
• Twenty-eight experts (clinicians, biomechanists, exercise physiologists, scientists, athletic trainers) participated.
• Participants evaluated exercises and prescription statements using open-ended questions and Likert scales.

Main Results:

• Consensus was reached on 23 out of 46 presented exercises.
• Consensus was achieved on 21 out of 54 exercise prescription statements.
• One prescription statement reached consensus of disagreement.

Conclusions:

• Consensus exercises were multi-joint and functionally integrated, including plyometrics, supporting increased musculotendinous stiffness and energy recycling.
• The identified exercises differ from those previously reported in foot training literature.
• Prescription statements aligned with American College of Sports Medicine guidelines and plyometric training literature.