The influence of linear speed on the ability to change the direction of movement in elite female football players

Abstract

The aim of this study was to show the influence of linear speed on the ability to change the direction of movement. Nineteen football players (16.90±2.28 years old) from the Serbian Super League participated in the research. Tests were performed to estimate speed: the linear speed at 5 m, 10 m, 20 m, and flying start at 10 m, and the 505 test for dominant and non-dominant leg, as well as CODS deficit, were applied to assess the ability to change direction. Using regression analysis, it was shown that linear speed has no statistically significant effect on the ability to change direction with elite female football players (P<0.05). In interpreting the results, several factors should be taken into account and the complexity of the linear speed relationship and the ability to change direction should be understood. The findings we gained from this research could influence the modification of training cycles, primarily strength, movement mechanics, and later more specific training episodes of football players.