Challenges when implementing an evidence-based exercise injury prevention training program in community-level sport: a case study

This interdisciplinary case study describes the key challenges experienced in the delivery of a team-based lower limb injury prevention training program in community-level sport. Player factors such as punctuality, commitment to other sports, and absences from full training due to injuries presented difficulties. The support of coaches and senior leadership teams and their understanding of the important role of training programs and injury prevention were critical in addressing these challenges. Inclement weather impacted on the use of fundamental equipment and required unanticipated adaptations to the programs. All of these factors must be considered in the implementation design and delivery phases of any exercise-based training intervention for injury prevention. Given the many similarities in delivering exercise programs across sports, detailed reporting of the real world challenges experienced will help inform successful study designs in the future. This case study highlights the benefits of multidisciplinary collaborations between a variety of professionals, including researchers, coaches, club management and equipment manufacturers, not only in the design of the training interventions but also in the solution of issues as they arise during implementation.