Which of the following is a key feature of an ACL injury prevention program?

• A. Preseason and during season
• B. Greater than 30 minutes per week
• C. Greater than 20 minutes per session
• D. Greater than 14 months duration

Answer: (A)

An ACL injury prevention program is most effective when it is implemented during preseason and continued throughout the competitive season. This timing matters because building neuromuscular control, strength, balance, and proper movement patterns before play starts gives athletes a safer foundation. Keeping the program active during the season helps maintain those gains as fatigue and increasing workloads creep in, which are common moments when the risk of risky knee positions rises. In other words, establishing safe mechanics early and then reinforcing them game after game provides ongoing protection.

While session length and weekly dosage are important for how well the program works, the defining feature tested here is the continuous presence of the program across both preseason and in-season phases. The other options describe amounts or duration rather than the crucial timing that sustains injury risk reduction throughout the season.