The effects of high-intensive interval training in cases with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of six weeks (three times a week) Wingate style high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on strength, proprioception, flexibility, laxity, performance and body composition in individuals who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with the hamstring autograft method. Within the scope of the study, 29 volunteers who had undergone hamstring autograft ACL reconstruction at least 6 months ago were randomized and divided into two groups as HİİT (n=15) and control (n=14) groups. After the initial assessments, the Wingate style HİİT was applied to the experimental group three days a week for 6 weeks. The control group continued their normal lifestyle and exercise habits. After 6 weeks, final evaluations were made. After obtaining the demographic information of the individuals, body composition was measured with Tanita. Then, knee laxity measurement with GNRB arthrometer, 30° and 60° proprioception assessed with isokinetic dynamometer, muscle strength (quadriceps femoris, hamstring (concentric/eccentric) at 60°/sec and endurance measurements at 180°/sec were performed respectively. Sit and reach test for flexibility and performance (single leg jump, vertical jump, agility) parameters were measured. According to the findings; significant decrease in body composition (p < 0.001), increase in strength in concentric quadriceps (p < 0.001) and hamstring muscles (p < 0.001), Improvement was observed in performance tests such as < 0.001), vertical jump (p < 0.001), single leg hop test (p < 0.001), agility (p < 0.001), and operated side (30° and 60°) proprioception tests (p < 0.005). However, better eccentric strength increase (p > 0.005), 180°/sec endurance strength increase (p > 0.005) and flexibility (p > 0.005) did not occur in the quadriceps and hamstring muscles better than the control group. With these results, it is thought that the HIIT can be added to current physiotherapy programs as it provides positive enhancements in body composition, restoring muscle strength, operated side proprioception and increasing performance parameters without increasing knee laxity after ACL reconstruction.