Comparing the effects of FIFA 11 + and traditional warm-up protocols on agility, balance, and proprioception in professional football players: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Purpose This randomized controlled trial compared the effects of FIFA 11 + with traditional warm-up programs on professional football players' agility, balance, and proprioception. Methods 44 professional football players aged between 18–30 years were randomly assigned into two groups. FIFA 11 + training group (FTG) ( n = 22, 27.8 ± 4.7 years) performed the 11 + program for 10 weeks, and the control group (CG) ( n = 22, 25.5 ± 4.6 years) did their usual warm-up program. Agility was assessed using the Illinois T test. The Y balance test was used to evaluate dynamic balance. Proprioception was assessed as the ability to reposition the knee at 30, 45, and 60℃ for both the player's right and left leg. Both warm-up protocols were performed before regular football training sessions three times per week for 10 weeks. Results Post-intervention (10th week) scores showed significant differences in all parameters compared to pre-scores in the experimental group ( p < 0.05). Moreover, there were significant improvements in Illinois agility and Y balance scores in 11 + groups compared to control groups ( P < 0.05). Conclusions The FIFA 11 + program appears to be a more effective warm-up protocol than traditional routines for improving agility, balance, and proprioception. These improvements may contribute to enhanced movement control and reduced injury risk during play. Clinical Trial Registry Name and Registration Number TCil-0096/NCT06472687.