The effectiveness of a 6-week functional preconditioning program on reducing musculoskeletal injuries, days lost from training, and attrition among Abu Dhabi police recruits: A randomized controlled trial
Musculoskeletal injuries among tactical population (police recruits), including prevention of training-related musculoskeletal disorders
Participants were allocated using simple randomisation with a computer-generated random number sequence. Allocation was performed by an independent individual from the Abu Dhabi Police recruitment department and was concealed using sealed opaque envelopes prior to group assignment. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental or control group. The experimental group underwent a 6-week structured preconditioning training (PCT) programme in addition to standard preparation, consisting of high-intensity functional exercises targeting strength, flexibility, endurance, neuromuscular control, and power. The programme was delivered in progressive phases, including activation, endurance and strength, and strength and power, with training sessions conducted four times per week under supervision, and load progression guided by the Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale. In contrast, the control group followed the standard recruitment procedure of Abu Dhabi Police, which involved no additional training during the same 6-week period prior to entering basic military training.
1. Male Abu Dhabi Police recruits 2. Age between 18 and 40 years 3. Successfully passed the Recruitment Medical Screening (RMS), including: 3.1. Physical examination 3.2. Blood tests 3.3. Mental health assessment 3.4. Vision examination 3.5. Chest X-ray 3.6. Willing to participate and provided informed consent
1. Presence of current musculoskeletal injury at baseline 2. History of significant musculoskeletal injury or surgery within the past 6 months 3. Any medical condition contraindicating participation in physical training (e.g., cardiovascular, neurological, or systemic conditions) 4. Failure to pass the recruitment medical screening 5. Incomplete baseline assessment data 6. Refusal or inability to provide informed consent