Injuries Occurring During Training, Competition, and Post-competition Among Sepak Takraw Athletes at Bangkok Thonburi University

Abstract

Background and Aims: Sepak takraw is a sport widely popular in Thailand, with competitions held at both national and international levels. The sepak takraw club of Bangkok Thonburi University conducts systematic training and team development to achieve athletic success. However, athletic achievement depends not only on training, as the skills and playing characteristics of sepak takraw involve risks of both acute and overuse injuries, which may affect athletes’ physical performance and competitive readiness. Therefore, studying injuries among sepak takraw athletes is important for developing effective injury prevention strategies and enhancing sports performance. Research Objective: (1) To study the injuries occurring during training, competition, and post-competition periods among sepak takraw athletes at Bangkok Thonburi University. (2) To compare the types and frequency of injuries sustained during training, competition, and after competition among these athletes.

Methodology: The study population consisted of 28 sepak takraw athletes from Bangkok Thonburi University. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire divided into two sections: Section 1 collected general information, and Section 2 focused on injury-related data. The data collection process included the following steps: (1) Permission was obtained from the team’s coach, and the research objectives were explained to both coaches and athletes. (2) Relevant injury literature was reviewed, and the questionnaire was developed and validated by experts. (3) The questionnaire was piloted with a non-sample group. (4) The researcher personally administered the questionnaire to the study sample. (5) The questionnaires were checked for accuracy and completeness. (6) Collected data were analyzed statistically.

Results: The study found that injuries most frequently occurred in the ankle area, accounting for 78.26% of cases. Most injuries occurred during training and were classified as moderate in severity. The most used injury prevention method was warming up, reported by 97.22% of the athletes. Comparison of injury occurrences during training, competition, and post-competition periods showed no statistically significant difference between the training and post-competition periods (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: These findings highlight the ankle as the most vulnerable area for injury among sepak takraw athletes, with training being the period of highest injury occurrence. Emphasis on proper warm-up routines and injury prevention strategies is essential to enhance athlete safety and reduce the risk of injury.