Development and Evaluation of a Knowledge Transfer Scheme-Based Foot Core Training Program for Male Amateur Football Players
ER K, GELEN E, KARA E. · Research Square · 2026
Abstract
Background: Lower extremity injuries are common among amateur football players, resulting in reduced performance and a prolonged absence from the sport. While most injury prevention programmes focus on the knee, hip and trunk, comparatively little attention has been given to the intrinsic foot muscles (the foot core). This study aimed to develop a foot core-based training programme using the Knowledge Transfer Scheme (KTS) and evaluate its impact on the lower extremity performance of male amateur football players.
Methods: This study employed a two-phase
Design: based on the KTS. In the first phase, a six-week foot core-based training programme was developed through expert consultation and a systematic literature review. In the second phase, male amateur football players were assigned to either a foot core training group (FCTG; n = 34) or a control group (CG; n = 47). All participants completed pre- and post-intervention assessments, which included vertical and horizontal jump tests, 10-, 20- and 30-metre sprint tests, the 505 agility test, the Y-Balance test and the navicular drop test.
Results: Compared with baseline, the FCTG demonstrated an 8.55% increase in vertical jump performance (p