Effects of Strength Training on Musculoskeletal Overuse Injuries in Female Runners

This randomized clinical trial will compare the effects of 9-months of strength training to a
control group on: (1) injury rates in female runners during the 9 month intervention period,
and for 9 months after completing the intervention, and (2) on the potential mechanisms of
injury including strength, joint and tissue loading, and psychosocial factors.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Female civilian runners between 18-60 years old

- Run at least 5 miles per week for the past 6 months

- No overuse injuries in the past 6 months

- Plan to stay in the area for the next year and a half

- Live less than 30 miles from Wake Forest University

Exclusion Criteria:

- Male

- Under age 18 and over age 60

- Chronic diseases, orthopedic conditions, past anterior cruciate ligament tears

- Currently pregnant or planning to conceive within the next 18 months

- Observed by study staff as unwilling to attend testing/intervention sessions

- Observed by study staff as unwilling to communicate via telephone and email regularly
with study personnel

- Participated in formal strength training in the past 6 months

- Current active military or active military reserve