A Systematic Review on Utilizing the Acute to Chronic Workload Ratio for Injury Prevention among Professional Soccer Players

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a surge in research examining the correlation between training load and injury risk among professional football players. One prominent model proposed for this purpose is the acute-to-chronic workload ratio (ACWR). This review aimed to compile studies focusing on professional footballers that explored the association between the ACWR and injury risk, offering specific usage guidelines. The findings revealed that the relationship between the ACWR and injury risk in professional football remains inconclusive. Among studies supporting this relationship, many utilized a coupled ACWR derived from GPS data. Interestingly, the duration of the ACWR (1:2, 1:3, 1:4) did not seem to significantly impact this association. In conclusion, the pool of relevant studies is limited, warranting further research for more definitive conclusions. While the ratio shows promise in its connection with injury risk, establishing precise thresholds (e.g., reduced injury likelihood) remains challenging given the current research landscape.

Keywords

• acute/chronic workload ratio
• soccer
• professional
• football
• workload