Associations between training behaviors and injuries in performance-oriented parkrunners using traditional statistical methods and machine learning.

BACKGROUND

parkrun is the most popular recreational running event in the UK, yet running-related injuries (RRIs) pose a threat to participation. Training behaviors are likely to influence the likelihood of RRIs with strength and conditioning (S&C) activities widely believed to reduce RRI risk. This study aimed to examine associations between S&C training habits plus broader training behaviors and RRIs using traditional statistical methods and machine learning (ML).

METHODS

parkrun participants completed an online survey including questions about personal characteristics, training behaviors, and RRIs during the past 12 months. Chi square and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to investigate associations between training behavior and RRIs. ML classifiers were employed to establish multi-factorial prediction of RRIs. Shapley Additive Explanations were used to explain how frequently selected features affect RRI probability.

RESULTS

1,203 responses were obtained and 570 performance-oriented parkrun participants were used for data analysis. Resistance training (Φ = 0.099, p = 0.018) and stretching/yoga (Φ = 0.095, p = 0.023) were positively associated with RRIs. No other S&C or running training behaviors were associated with RRIs. ML classifiers achieved moderate predictive capacities and found non-linear associations between RRIs and number of interval training sessions per week, a positive association with stretching/yoga, and a negative association with coach-guided training.

CONCLUSION

Participation in S&C activities is not associated with a lower likelihood of RRIs in parkrunners and resistance training and stretching/yoga was linked to greater likelihood of RRIs. ML classifiers suggest there is benefit to performing a high frequency of interval training sessions, excluding stretching/yoga, and having qualified coaches prescribe training.