Functional state of team sports athletes in the annual training cycle

Abstract

Determination of the dynamics of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of team sports athletes in the annual training cycle. The achievement of this goal will allow for providing scientifically-based management of training and competitive processes in the annual training cycle and contribute to the normalization of the functional state of the athlete's musculoskeletal system. The authors assessed the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of athletes involved in football, handball, and field hockey, using goniometry, and stabilometry, as well as testing physical abilities, associated with the flexibility of the joints (forward bend from a standing position (on the bench), bridge, transverse and longitudinal (best of 2 possible), splits). Testing was conducted during the annual training cycle, after the competitive period, and at the beginning and at the end of the preparatory period. Assessment of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of athletes at the end of the competition period showed the low and below average flexibility levels. Static support ability (stabilometry) and joint mobility (goniometry) were below average and average levels. Decrease in static support ability testified to violations of the vestibular apparatus and proprioceptive sensitivity, which have a significant impact on balance. The low results of joint flexibility and mobility indicated the lack of elasticity of the musculoskeletal apparatus, which indicated the presence of overstrain. Diagnosed positive changes in the state of the musculoskeletal system of athletes at the beginning and at the end of the preparatory period, regardless of the team sport, indicated a partial restoration of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system during the transition period. According to the results of the study, recommendations were given for including in the training process, along with prestretching, corrective and preventive exercises based on the use of the myofascial relaxation technique, which contribute to the restoration of the functional state of the musculoskeletal system of team sports athletes. Keywords: football players, handball players, hockey players, functional state, musculoskeletal system, flexibility, stabilometry, goniometry.