SOLUTIONS

START WITH NEUROMUSCULAR TRAINING

Two decades of research now shows that simple exercises done regularly can dramatically reduce ACL injury risk. This neuromuscular training improves lower body strength and control, allowing athletes to change speed and direction safely. Training works by refining movement patterns, leading to less force on sensitive knee structures while also improving one’s ability to speed up, stop and cut on demand.

HOW IT WORKS

Reduce the force of ground impact by improving neuromuscular control. Neuromuscular training helps youth refine movement patterns and build muscle memory for sports and physical activity movements. The result is less pressure on sensitive knee structures.

WHAT IS REQUIRED

30-60 minutes per week, spread across sessions that typically last 10-15 minutes each. Athletes start in pre-season and continue throughout the season as a warm up, at home, like homework, or as part of a strength program. Whether on the field, at home, or in a gym, the key is consistency.

KEY ELEMENTS

Neuromuscular training is most effective for ACL injury risk when it specifically targets landing mechanics. Defining features include:

  • Lunges

  • Heel/calf raises

  • Hamstring exercises

  • Landing stabilization exercises

  • Verbal cues for correct technique

BENEFITS

Neuromuscular training results in:

TAKE ACTION TODAY

coaches

Build your knowledge of ACL Injury with free courses* and make neuromuscular training* a daily ritual with your team.

RIIP REPS: APP-GUIDED, NEUROMUSCULAR TRAINING FOR TEAMS
Training Program | HSS | Free

Free, app-delivered neuromuscular training that builds control when stopping on a dime, cutting, jumping and landing. For athletes ages 13+.

  • Four 7-minute training sessions per week, before practice or at home.

  • Audio, text and visual cues focused on mechanics

  • Coaches and program leaders enroll teams and track athlete progress.

ACL INJURY
PREVENTION
Course | NFHS | Free | 30 mins

  • Learn the causes of ACL injury

  • Learn how to identify and correct movement deficiencies that can lead to ACL injuries

  • Learn how to effectively lead a Neuro-dynamic Warmup

PARENTS

Stay informed of risk factors and support neuromuscular training as a regular practice for youth.

MOVE BETTER
VIRTUAL CLASSES
Training Program | HSS | Free

Live virtual neuromuscular training classes specifically designed for young athletes. Ideal for youth who do not have access to a program elsewhere.

  • 30-minute classes led by HSS sports injury prevention experts

  • Offered twice per week during four 10-12 week seasonal sessions

  • Made available in an on-demand library shortly after each class ends

HOW TO EVALUATE YOUR
CHILD’S MOVEMENT
Course | HSS | Free | 30 mins

  • Learn to identify neuromuscular control as a risk factor

  • Learn to evaluate the quality of your child's movement

  • Learn to use photos or videos taken with a mobile device

*More programs, courses and tool available on our Resources page

JOIN THE PLAYER health MOVEMENT

Join the movement to prioritize health and safety in school sports.

Coaches and team staff play a key role in helping athletes follow through on their neuromuscular training. Here’s how you can make it stick:

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  1. Stay informed of ACL injury risks

  2. Take coursework on neuromuscular training to understand what makes it effective. Research shows that introductory courses help coaches deliver training effectively and consistently.

  3. Establish a clear motivation, for yourself and your players. Neuromuscular training will reduce the risk of injury and improve performance.

  4. Find a program and routine that you can integrate into your team’s schedule and players’ lives.