Are They Really Ready to Run? A Criteria-Based Approach for Soccer Rehab

When a soccer player has recovered from an injury and it’s time to consider returning to running, the decision is rarely as simple as following a calendar or relying on subjective feelings of improvement. In fact, transitioning back to running requires a thoughtful, criteria-based approach to ensure the player is truly ready for the demands of soccer. Recent research emphasises that a return-to-running (RTR) program should go beyond basic clinical assessment and time-based guidelines, focusing instead on a comprehensive assessment of the player’s strength, movement patterns, and psychological readiness.

The key to a successful RTR process is achieving performance symmetry, where the injured limb is functioning at least 80% as well as the uninjured side across various tests. These tests measure aspects such as single-leg endurance, strength (e.g., single-leg press, Nordic hamstring curls), and plyometric ability (e.g., hop tests and force plate analysis). Additionally, movement retraining is crucial, as soccer requires dynamic, multi-directional movements. It's not just about jogging but reintroducing soccer-specific skills, like jumps, landings, and ball control.

Another important aspect is the psychological readiness of the player. Their confidence and mental comfort with the movements play a significant role in recovery. A player who feels anxiety or fear about re-engaging in running or soccer drills may be at risk for further injury. As such, it’s essential to assess both physical and psychological factors, ensuring that the player not only has the physical capacity but also feels mentally prepared to return to the pitch.

This structured approach, which includes thorough physical testing and psychological evaluations, helps reduce the risk of setbacks, boosts player confidence, and ensures they are truly prepared to handle the demands of their sport. By moving away from guesswork and relying on evidence-based practices, physiotherapists can make safer, more informed decisions about a player's readiness to return to running and, ultimately, to soccer.

Learn Physio. Mick’s memos. Learn Physio. Retrieved April 9, 2025, from https://www.learn.physio/p/micks-memos

Mitchell, U., Williams, S., & Jones, S. (2025). A criteria-based approach for soccer rehab: Are they really ready to run? Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 55(4), 123-135. https://doi.org/10.2519/josptopen.2025.0115