The participation of women in high-impact sports such as rugby and basketball has been steadily increasing in Saudi Arabia. These sports are known for their physical demands and competitive nature, which have heightened the incidence of sports-related injuries. Understanding the predictive factors for these injuries is critical for developing preventive strategies, reducing long-term health consequences, and reducing healthcare burdens. Therefore, this study aims to identify the predictive effect of physiological factors (e.g., muscle strength, anaerobic power, oxygen consumption) and psychological factors (e.g., self-efficacy, resilience) on sports injuries among female athletes in Saudi Arabia, particularly focusing on those involved in rugby and basketball. A prospective cross-sectional design will be employed, involving a total of 30 female athletes aged 18-35 years actively participating in rugby and basketball. Data will be collected at the lifestyle research center through a series of physiological assessments, including maximal oxygen consumption, anaerobic power testing, isokinetic muscle strength testing, and psychological evaluations using validated questionnaires. The findings are expected to provide insights into the specific factors that increase injury risk among Saudi female athletes, offering targeted strategies for injury prevention. These strategies aim not only to minimize injuries but also to reduce associated healthcare costs, thereby supporting the sustainable growth of women's sports in Saudi Arabia. Ultimately, this study seeks to contribute to the broader objectives of Vision 2030 by promoting a vibrant sports culture and enhancing public health.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
60
Injury risk was evaluated using the Lower Extremity Functional Test (LEFT), which involves eight agility drills performed consecutively on a diamond-shaped course without rest intervals. The test includes eight components-forward run, backward run, side shuffle, carioca, figure-eight run, 45-degree cuts, 90-degree cuts, and a counter vertical jump-along with the single-leg hop for distance, following a standardized testing protocol known to predict injury risk. Participants who took longer to complete the test were categorized into the high injury risk group, while those with shorter completion times were classified into the low injury risk group.
PNU
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Maximal oxygen consumption test:
subjects will complete symptom limited treadmill exercise tests using a modification of Balkes protocol, which has been previously used among individuals with obesity. Participants will be connected to a gas analyzing metabolic cart (mouthpiece) for the determination of oxygen uptake, ventilated carbon dioxide, lung volumes, and heart rate through a gas analysis system using Cortex Metalyzer 3B (Cortex Biophysik GmbH, Leipzig, Germany) and HR monitor (Polar H7, Kempele, Finland).The tests will be performed on a computerized treadmill allowing programmed adjustment of both speed and inclination components of the work rate. The gas exchange system measured the oxygen consumption (VO2) and carbon dioxide production (VCO2) throughout the test.
Time frame: baseline
Wingate test
The Wingate test will be performed on a cycle ergometer (Ergomedic 828E, Monark, Sweden). Participants will perform a 30-second all-out sprint against a resistance equivalent to 7.5% of their body weight. The test measures the peak power (in watts), average power, and rate of fatigue. These metrics provide insights into the anaerobic performance capabilities of athletes.
Time frame: baseline
Isokinetic muscle strength
testing will be conducted using an isokinetic dynamometer (Humac Norm Isokinetic Software System-USA. The participants will perform knee flexion and extension at angular velocities of 60°/s and 180°/s. The peak torque (Nm) will be recorded for each movement, which indicates the maximum strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings. Bilateral comparisons will be performed to assess muscle imbalances, which are potential injury risk factors. Quadriceps and hamstring muscles of the dominant leg will be also examined. The dominant lower extremity was defined as the preferred leg for kicking the ball. The researcher will use a moderate pace and load (50-100 W), followed by 10 min of dynamic stretching concentrating on the lower limbs to prepare every participant for the assessment of leg torque.
Time frame: baseline
The General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES)
The GSES is a self-report and unidimensional measure consisting of 10 items (e.g., "I can always manage to solve difficult problems if I try hard enough"). The total score ranges from 10 to 40, with higher scores indicating stronger belief that one's actions are responsible for successful outcomes.
Time frame: baseline
Brief Resilience Scale (BRS)
Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) is a self-rated assessment developed to quantify people's ability to bounce back and cope in accordance to health-related stressors.The overarch objective of this test was to provide the ability to thrive in the face of adversity. In other words, those who are more resilient are better able to cope with life challenges. The BRS was first developed by Smith et al.. and was used in this study. It comprises a six-item scale, with total possible points ranging from to 6-30. Each item has possible responses ranging from1= strongly disagree, 2= disagree, 3= neutral, 4= agree, and 5= Strongly Agree. The validity and reliability for this scale has been examined, giving excellent psychometric properties that allows for efficient measurement of resilience.
Time frame: baseline
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