Implementing the Copenhagen Adductor Exercise and Nordic Hamstring Exercise in West African Academy Soccer Players: An Intervention Study.

There was no control group or non-soccer comparison, so it is not possible to tell whether strength changes came from the exercises, normal soccer, growth, or maturation. Because the Copenhagen Adductor Exercise and Nordic Hamstring Exercise were performed together in every intervention session, the study cannot show which exercise contributed to adductor or hamstring strength changes. The study included only male youth players from one West African academy, mainly Ghana and Ivory Coast, so results may not apply to female players, other ages, or other regions. Forty-four players completed both intervention periods, but 67 participated in at least one; 12 were not eligible for the first intervention and 13 missed the second intervention because they graduated or had an unrelated injury. Players had previous exposure to the Copenhagen Adductor Exercise and Nordic Hamstring Exercise before the study, so the first intervention may not reflect a beginner response. Testing was done instead of soccer training, but end-of-intervention testing occurred on a matchday plus two, so residual fatigue may have affected strength scores. The study measured strength, not injury risk reduction, and no injury incidence rates were reported. Age, height, and body mass increased over the 22-week study period, and leg length was not captured, so maturation and body size may influence strength.

Do not conclude that the Copenhagen Adductor Exercise and Nordic Hamstring Exercise reduce groin or hamstring injuries in West African academy soccer players. The study measured strength, not injury risk, had no control group, and the two exercises were given together, so it cannot separate their effects or show a causal benefit.