Effect of Core Training on 16 Year-Old Soccer Players.

Abstract

Core trainings have been widely used by trainers recently in order to improve performance of soccer players. In this context, the aim of this study is to examine the effect of core training on some motoric capabilities of 16 years old soccer players. Thirty certified soccer players who were 16 years old from B.B. Bodrumspor Club in 2013-2014 seasons participated voluntarily in the research. Weight and height averages of U-16 experiment and control group players were similar; there was no significant difference between them. Before the trainings, pre-tests of two groups of 15 participants (standing long jump, shuttle, balance, push-up, speed, plank, vertical jump) were recorded. The core trainings were implemented on the experiment group twice a week, 30 to 35 min a day for 12 weeks by trainers plus the regular training program. Only regular trainings within yearly training program were implemented on the control group. After 12 weeks, post-test measurements were taken. The differences between the tests were analyzed statistically, with “t” test at p<0.05. Consequently, it was observed that core trainings implemented on junior level players brought about significant improvements on parameters of standing long jump, shuttle, balance, speed, plank, and vertical jump (p<0.05). Key words: Core, training, soccer, adult, strength.