Research Roundup- Success in Volleyball, Training Power in Hockey, and Return-to-Kicking Program for Soccer

Future Elite Success in Volleyball-  What does it take? A recent study  showed that tests of motor coordination (balance, jumping, lateral movement, and upper body coordination) in volleyball players were predictors of success in addition to the athlete’s height and vertical jump height.  In fact, these three tests were able to predict playing levels in volleyball players 5 years later.   … Read More

Research Roundup- Baseball Edition

Could hip strengthening help you become a better pitcher?  You bet it can!  Multiple studies (here, here, or even here) including this recent one, have shown that the hip muscles are active during baseball pitching.   The study also showed the importance of the muscles around the shoulder blade (the scapular stabilizers). The pitching motion requires total body strength-  Include hip and core strengthening in … Read More

Compression Socks for Marathon Runners- Do They Really Help?

Compression socks are popular among runners, who wear them to recover from long runs, races, or workouts.  The socks improve circulation in the diabetic population by stimulating blood flow.  Manufacturers claim that compression garments improves oxygen delivery, reduce lactic acid and prevent cramps in athletes.  But are these claims true?  Recently, the Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy published … Read More

ACL Injury Prevention- Why Proper Coaching Matters

ACL rehab and injury prevention programs focus on strengthening, plyometrics, and balance exercises.  Studies have shown this approach works, however ACL injuries are unfortunately still common and there is a high incidence of re-injury or injuring the other knee. So are we missing something in training and rehabbing these athletes?  Maybe it’s not just the muscle strength but the connection from … Read More