A ANTROPOMETRIA ESTÁ RELACIONADA ÀS HABILIDADES MOTORAS E FUTEBOLÍSTICAS EM JOGADORES SUB-13?

Abstract

Introduction: Anthropometric profile of soccer players is known to have a strong effect on performance. However, there are limited studies in the literature as to which component of anthropometric profile has the greatest impact on performance among youth soccer players. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate body composition’s relationship with biomotor abilities and soccer specific skills in U13 soccer players. Methods: 84 soccer players participated to the study. Body composition parameters, subcutaneous fat tissue, vertical jump, horizontal jump, sprint performance, agility, balance and soccer skills of soccer players were evaluated. Results: Balance, sprint performance, agility and vertical and horizontal jump performances were negatively correlated with body fat percentage (p<0.05). Agility, vertical and horizontal jumps were negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (p<0.05). Sprint time was positively correlated with waist circumference (p<0.05). Positive correlation was found between body fat percentage and dribbling time (p<0.05). Conclusion: Waist circumference and body fat percentage may serve as a better predictor on performance compared to BMI and FFM in U13 soccer players. Therefore, coaches of youth soccer players should adopt a multidisciplinary approach and monitor body fat percentage to improve their players’ biomotor abilities and soccer skills.