The American Journal of Sports Medicine recently published some findings on our knees. Did you know that female athletes use their leg muscles differently than male athletes. This may explain why females are more likely to injure their knees. Females have less control of their hip muscles, which in turn puts more stress on their knees. Less knee stability causes a possible risk for tearing of their Anterior Cruciate Ligament, or ACL. Take this simple test to see if you may be at risk for a knee injury.

1. Do you have trouble keeping your balance?
2. Do you have problems reaching a 90 degree bend in your knees?
3. Does your knee normally drift way in front of your toes?
4. Does your knee turn inward?
5. Do you have any knee pain?

A simple way to stave off ACL injuries to exercise your core muscles. Balance exercises are key to keeping your knees injury free. If you feel you may be at risk, talk to your trainer and have more balance exercises added to your workout.