Performance In Female Soccer Players Research Articles

Effects of Vertical and Horizontal Jumping Asymmetries on Linear and Change-of-Direction Speed Performance of Female Soccer Players

In recent years, along with the remarkable development of women’s soccer, significant attention has been given to the study of asymmetry in lower limbs. However, there is uncertainty about whether and to what extent jumping asymmetries affect the performance of female soccer players. The aims of this study were to examine (a) possible asymmetries in jumping ability and (b) the correlations between asymmetries and performance of female soccer players in 10 m and 30 m speed tests, as well as in change-of-direction speed tests. The study involved 12 adolescent (age: 15.8 ± 0.8 years, body mass: 59.4 ± 7 kg and height: 160.5 ± 5.1 cm) and 10 adult female soccer players (age: 22.3 ± 4.4 years, body mass: 62.2 ± 7.5 kg and height: 165.7 ± 6.1 cm). Pearson’s correlations showed no statistically significant relationships between vertical and horizontal asymmetries and time in 10 m, 30 m and 505 change-of-direction speed tests for adolescent players. In adult players, a significantly high correlation was found between asymmetries in single-leg hop tests (for distance) and time in 505 change-of-direction speed tests (r = 0.68, p < 0.05). Adult players showed higher asymmetry values in vertical and horizontal jump tests, but these asymmetries were not significant (p > 0.05). Practitioners are recommended to implement strength and power training programs, as well as injury prevention protocols, aiming to reduce asymmetries, in order to minimize the risk of injuries, and potentially improve performance of female soccer players in certain fitness tests.

Effect of the role, playing position and the body characteristics on physical performance in female soccer players

The aims of this study were to know the physical demands according to the playing position and team role, and to assess the effect of the body characteristics on the physical performance of semi-professional female soccer players. Forty-five female semi-professional soccer players during 9 home-matches of the 2021–2022 season were analyzed and GPS devices (GPEXE ®) were used. ANCOVA tests were performed with playing time as covariate. The results showed greater physical demands in forwards and wide-midfielders and offensive role players. Total distance, metabolic power, accelerations, deaccelerations, and distance covered to medium and high speed obtained a strong effect size in these analyses according to the playing position. Furthermore, relationships between body weight and physical performance were found (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the main finding of this study showed that semi-professional female soccer players compete differently, caused by differentiated functions, evidenced in the playing positions and role in the team. Offensive role, forwards and wide-midfielder female players performed the highest physical demands in the competition. This study has shown relevant information for coaches, S&C coaches, and training staff of the semi-professional female soccer teams in order to propose new keys and ways of planning training sessions.

Examining the Link between Isokinetic Strength Metrics and Ball Speed in Women’s Soccer

The shot performance of female soccer players is one of the most critical factors in winning a soccer match. It is essential to thoroughly clarify the kinetic factors that can improve shot performance. This study explores the connections between ball velocity post-shooting and isokinetic knee extension (EXT) and flexion (FLX) strength performances among female soccer players. Thirteen voluntary players from professional leagues took part in the research study. The study analyzed the average and peak concentric (Con) and eccentric (Ecc) torques, isometric (Iso) strength performances at angular velocities of 60°/s, 180°/s and 300°/s, the time required to reach peak torque, and ball velocities during shooting. The relationships among these variables were investigated separately for the dominant (D) and non-dominant (ND) legs. The analysis unveiled significant correlations between ball velocities and D-EXT (Absolute) peak torque at an angular velocity of 60°/s (r = 0.597; p &lt; 0.05), D-%IPS (r = −0.580; p &lt; 0.05), and ND-FLX (Absolute) average torque (r = 0.559; p &lt; 0.05). Moreover, notable associations were observed between ball velocities and ND-EXT (Absolute) (r = 0.581; p &lt; 0.05), as well as ND-FLX (Absolute) (r = 0.602; p &lt; 0.05) average torques at an angular velocity of 180°/s. Additionally, significant relationships were found between ball velocities and peak (r = 0.664; p = 0.013) and average (r = 0.660; p = 0.014) torques generated during ND-EXT (Absolute) at an angular velocity of 300°/s. However, the connections between the time to reach peak torque, eccentric and isometric forces, and ball velocities were not statistically significant (p &gt; 0.05). The results of the study indicate that enhancing concentric isokinetic strength development at 60°/s, 180°/s, and 300°/s angular velocities, along with balanced strengthening of the ND extremity, holds paramount importance in elevating shot performance among female soccer players, particularly in the context of rapid shot strategies.

Resting cardiovascular function and athletic performance in female soccer players

IntroductionThis study examined resting cardiovascular function, when examined immediately before physical testing and its association to maximal cardiorespiratory and musculoskeletal performance in female soccer players. Summary of facts and results 21 female soccer players training as part of a collegiate team were participants over a six-month period that included six data collections separated by 30-day intervals. Indices of cardiovascular function included; cardiac output, stroke volume, systemic vascular resistance, heart rate variability (HRV) and blood pressure. Maximal cardiorespiratory and musculoskeletal performance measures included; vertical jump, lower body power, 5 and 10m running speed, and the YoYo intermittent recovery test level-1. Simple (r) and multivariable analysis (R2) was utilized to examine the association between cardiovascular function and physical performance measures. Body mass index and body fat (%) were included as covariates. Significant associations using each analysis were observed between; HRV and YoYo performance (r=0.26; R2=0.21, P<0.05), 10m speed and mean arterial pressure (r=–0.44; R2=0.30, P<0.001), 5m speed and systolic blood pressure (r=–0.32; R2=0.18, P<0.01), as well as lower body power and stroke volume (r=0.50; R2=0.42, P<0.001). ConclusionRoutinely examining resting cardiovascular function can support practitioners in better understanding sport performance attributes in female soccer players.

Horizontal jump asymmetries are associated with reduced range of motion and vertical jump performance in female soccer players

BackgroundPerformance in jumping and change of direction tests are good proxies to reflect the skill level during soccer-specific actions. Greater inter-leg asymmetries have been identified as a risk factor for developing acute and overuse injuries and jeopardizing soccer performance. The aim of this study was to assess the association between asymmetry in the unilateral vertical and horizontal jump tests, ankle range of motion, linear velocity, and change of direction in a sample of highly trained adult female soccer players.MethodsThirty-eight highly trained female soccer players underwent a testing protocol including ankle dorsiflexion, single leg jumps for height (CMJ), distance (HJ), 40 m sprint and 180° change of direction tests.ResultsWithin-session reliability was acceptable (CV ≤ 7.9%), and relative reliability showed good to excellent (ICC: 0.83 to 0.99). The one-way ANOVA reported higher inter-limb differences for change of direction deficit (10.9 ± 8.04%) and single leg CMJ (5.70 ± 5.22%). Pearson correlations highlighted significant relationships between horizontal jump asymmetries and ankle dorsiflexion (r = -0.41), CMJ (r = -0.36 to -0.49) and HJ (r = -0.28 to -0.56).ConclusionsAssessing inter-limb asymmetries through different methods can help scientists understand the specificity of their detrimental effects on soccer performance. Practitioners should be aware of these specificities as well as the magnitude and direction of the asymmetries when aiming to improve specific on-field skills.

Match activity profile of professional female soccer players during a season.

It is necessary to understand movement characteristics of elite female soccer players during a match to develop effective training program. The purpose of this study is to analyze the physical demands of Korean female professional soccer players during a competitive season. Twenty-four female professional players (age: 27.8±3.9 years; height: 165.7± 5.1 cm) from a team, belonging to the women's professional soccer league in South Korea participated in the study. The players participated in 11 home matches and 10 away matches from April 26 to November 9 of the 2011 season. Body weight and body mass index decreased during the first half-season compared to the preseason (P<0.05), and the decreased values were maintained until the second half-season. Total distance covered by the players was more than 9.5 km per match. No difference was found in the total distance, movement distance by exercise intensities, number of sprints and accelerations, and maximum speed between the first half- and second half-seasons. Midfielders covered the most distance during a match compared to other positions (P<0.05). Wing forward covered the most distance of high-intensity exercise. Maximum speed during the match was higher among wing forward and forward than in other positions (P<0.05). There were no significant differences between home and away matches in all variables (P>0.05). In conclusion, in order to improve the performance of female soccer players and prevent injuries, a training program should be constructed that considers the characteristics of each player and playing position rather than uniform training in a team.

Effects of a short-term in-season break on repeated-sprint ability, jump height and locomotor performance in small-sided games in female soccer players

The current study aimed to analyse the effects of an in-season break period (2-week) on specific performance in amateur young female soccer players. Twelve female soccer players completed four assessment sessions, two before (BD-d1 and BD-d2) and two after (AD-d1 and AD-d2) a 2-week in-season break detraining period (both separated by 24 h). In each session, players completed a repeated sprint ability test (repeated sprint ability = 8 sprints of 30 m with 25 s of recovery), a countermovement jump test and locomotor performance in small-sided games (small-sided games = 3 sets of 5 min in a 5 vs. 5). Players exhibited a significant decrease in mean of repeated sprint ability (mean time of 8 sprints, p = 0.000, effect size = 2.04) and countermovement jump ( p = 0.009, effect size = 1.39) performance between BD-d1 and AD-d1. The percentage of change between BD-d1 and BD-d2 from AD-d1 and AD-d2 shows significant differences ( p = 0.05, effect size = 1.12) in best of repeated sprint ability (best time of 8 sprints) but not ( p = 0.517, effect size = 0.31) in mean of repeated sprint ability. Significantly less high-intensity acceleration was performed in BD-d2 and AD-d2 from BD-d1 ( p = 0.003, effect size = 3.21 and p = 0.002, effect size = 3.25, respectively). Only a 2-week in-season break inactivity was sufficient to decrease mean of repeated sprint ability and countermovement jump performance but not the best of repeated sprint ability. Therefore, it is necessary to apply specific training strategies to prevent decreases in performance in female soccer players in specific periods of the season.

Heart Rate Variability And Its Association With The Autonomic Response During Jump Performance In Female Soccer Players

Heart rate variability (HRV) has been established as a valid index for examining cardiac autonomic modulation. The eccentric utilization ratio (EUR) is a novel index examining the stretch shortening cycle and is calculated by dividing the jump height of both the squat jump and counter movement jump. The reactive strength index (RSI) is another assessment examining the autonomic response of a muscle contraction when performing a drop jump test. Currently, there remains a paucity of inquiry around the association between heightened cardiac vagal modulation and improvement in jump performance when utilizing the stretch shortening cycle. PURPOSE: To examine the association between cardiac vagal modulation using rMSSD and jump performance assessments utilizing the stretch shortening cycle in healthy female collegiate soccer players. METHODS: Seventeen healthy female collegiate soccer players with an age of (mean ± SD) 18.5 ± 0.75 yr, a weight of 57.3 ± 9.2 kg, a height of 165.4 ± 7.2 cm, and a body fat % of 23.2 ± 7.4 volunteered as participants. HRV was analyzed in the supine position after a 10-min stabilization period. R-R intervals were recorded over 60-seconds using the Polar Team Pro® chest strap and were exported into Kubios HRV 3.4 (University of Kuopio, Kuopio, Finland) for HRV analyses. Each participant performed three separate squat jumps, counter movement jumps and drop jumps with their hands placed on their hips. Jump performance was assessed using a force plate (Hawkin Dynamics Force Plate, ME, USA). The highest jump was included for each analysis. Normality of each data set was examined using a Shapiro-Wilk’s test for normality (p > 0.05). Linear regression (R2) was utilized to examine the association between rMSSD and both EUR and RSI. This study was approved by and followed the recommendation of the Research Ethics Review board at Langara College. RESULTS: No significant associations were observed between rMSSD and both EUR (R2 = 0.004, p = 0.74) and RSI (R2 = 0.001, p = 0.87). CONCLUSION: HRV may not be suitable for examining the autonomic response when utilizing the stretch shortening cycle during jump performance testing. This investigation was funded by the Langara College ARC-1 grant.

A Data Analytics Approach to Assess the Functional and Physical Performance of Female Soccer Players: A Cohort Design.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was twofold: (i) to observe the individual results of fitness status [countermovement jump (CMJ)], hop test, linear sprinting time, stride frequency, stride distance, force–power–velocity, peak power maximal and maximal speed, and repeated sprint ability (RSA) and functional performance (overhead squat, single-leg squat test, dumbbell hip-hinge, Thomas test, hip extension, and internal and external hip rotators) and (ii) to analyze the relationship between anthropometrical measures and values of fitness status with % of difference in the Thomas test, hip extension, and internal and external hip rotators. Materials and Methods: The study followed a cohort design. Sixteen female soccer players competing in the second division of the Spanish league were monitored during the first days of the pre-season. These players were evaluated three times during the preseason of the cohort period. The dataset showed a negative moderate correlation between time and percentage of difference in hip angle and another positive moderate correlation between maximal sprint and percentage of difference in hip angle (r = −0.54, p = 0.02 and r = 0.53, p = 0.04), respectively. The correlations of stride time and distance with hip extension are interesting, as professional soccer players should have higher levels of hip flexor flexibility during the stride phase, recoil of the instep kick action.

The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality on Anxiety and Performance in Female Soccer Players.

With the increased use of technology, relaxation interventions are finding their way into technology devices like virtual reality head-mounted displays (VR HMDs). However, there is a lack of evidence on the efficacy of VR relaxation interventions to reduce anxiety in athletes and how that is portrayed in their movement patterns. The purpose of the current study was to examine how a VR relaxation intervention affected perceived anxiety levels and penalty kick performance of female soccer players. Thirteen female soccer players took five penalty kicks in baseline, stress-induced, and VR relaxation conditions. Perceived levels of anxiety, self-confidence, mental effort, heart rate (HR), accelerometry of the lumbar spine and thigh, and performance in each condition was obtained. Results indicated that the VR intervention significantly reduced cognitive anxiety and somatic anxiety from baseline (p = 0.002; p = 0.001) and stress (p < 0.001; p < 0.001) with large effect sizes (Kendall’s W = 0.72; 0.83). VR significantly increased self-confidence from baseline (p = 0.002) and stress (p = 0.001) with a large effect size (Kendall’s W = 0.71). Additionally, all participants felt that VR helped them relax. Mental effort was significantly higher in the stress condition compared to that in baseline (p = 0.007) with moderate effect size (Kendall’s W = 0.39). Peak acceleration and performance were not significantly influenced by stress or VR. This study serves as an initial step to evaluate VR relaxation interventions on performance in female soccer players.

Female Adolescent Soccer Players Utilize Different Neuromuscular Strategies Between Limbs During the Propulsion Phase of a Lateral Vertical Jump

BackgroundMultiplanar dynamic stability is an important unilateral function in soccer performance but has been scarcely examined in female soccer players. The lateral vertical jump task assesses unilateral functional performance, and energy generation contribution examines how each joint (hip, knee, ankle) contributes to the vertical component of the vertical jump phase to measure inter- and intra-limb differences.PurposeTo examine dominant versus non-dominant limb performance using energy generation contribution of the hip, knee, and ankle during the vertical jump component of the lateral vertical jump.Study DesignCross-sectional observational study.MethodsSeventeen healthy, adolescent female soccer players (age 13.4±1.7 years; height 160.6±6.0 cm; mass 53.1±8.2 kg) participated. Quadriceps strength was measured via isokinetic dynamometry. Energy generation contribution (measured from maximal knee flexion to toe off) and vertical jump height were measured during the vertical component of the lateral vertical jump.ResultsThere was no significant difference between limbs for quadriceps strength (p=0.64), jump height (p=0.59), or ankle energy generation contribution (p=0.38). Energy generation contribution was significantly greater in the dominant hip (dominant 29.7±8.6%, non-dominant 18.4±6.3%, p<0.001) and non-dominant knee (dominant 22.8±6.8%, non-dominant 36.2±8.5%, p<0.001).ConclusionHigh demand on coordination and motor control during the lateral vertical jump and inherent limb dominance may explain different intra-limb strategies for task performance despite jump height symmetry. Non-dominant affinity for stability and dominant compensatory performance may neutralize potential asymmetries. Implications for symmetry in observable outcomes such as jump height must consider underlying internal asymmetries.Levels of Evidence3BClinical RelevanceSymmetrical findings on functional tasks have underlying internal asymmetries observed here in female adolescent soccer players. The lateral vertical jump may highlight these internal asymmetries (hip- versus knee-dominant movement strategies) due to the high coordinative demand to perform the task. Clinicians should be cognizant of underlying, potentially inherent, asymmetries even when observing functional symmetry in a task.What is known about the subjectFemale adolescent soccer players are a high-risk cohort for sustaining anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Limb dominance may play a role in the performance of functional tasks, and limb dominance in soccer players is quite specialized: the dominant limb is the preferred kicking limb, while the non-dominant limb is the preferred stabilizing limb (plant leg). Functional performance in female soccer players has been studied in kicking, dribbling, sprinting, change of direction, and jumping – however, these tasks were measured independent of limb dominance. It remains to be seen how unilateral functional tasks may be affected by limb dominance in female adolescent soccer players.What this study adds to existing knowledgeThis study provides data on functional performance relative to limb dominance in female adolescent soccer players, and captures the lateral vertical jump task in both inter- and intra-limb measures. This highlights that intra-limb strategies to perform a coordinated motor task may be different between limbs, herein attributed to limb dominance. Even if gross motor outputs between limbs are symmetrical (i.e. jump height), the underlying movement strategies to achieve that output may be different (hip- versus knee-dominant movement strategies). These findings are important to research on functional performance measures related to attaining between-limb symmetry, as measures of energy generation contribution open the door for a more thorough understanding of joint-by-joint intra-limb contributions during a functional task.

Effects of Short-Term Plyometric Training on Agility, Jump and Repeated Sprint Performance in Female Soccer Players

The aim of the study was to determine the effects of short-term (4 weeks, twice a week: 8 sessions) plyometric training on agility, jump, and repeated sprint performance in female soccer players. The study comprised 17 females performing this sports discipline. The players were randomly divided into two groups: with plyometric training (PLY) and the control (CON). All players followed the same training program, but the PLY group also performed plyometric exercises. Tests used to evaluate physical performance were carried out immediately before and after PLY. After implementing the short PLY training, significant improvement in jump performance (squat jump: p = 0.04, ES = 0.48, countermovement jump: p = 0.009, ES = 0.42) and agility (p = 0.003, ES = 0.7) was noted in the PLY group. In the CON group, no significant (p > 0.05) changes in physical performance were observed. In contrast, PLY did not improve repeated sprint performance (p > 0.05) among female soccer players. In our research, it was shown that PLY can also be effective when performed for only 4 weeks instead of the 6–12 weeks typically applied.

Acute Effects of Match-Play on Neuromuscular and Subjective Recovery and Stress State in Division I Collegiate Female Soccer Players.

Ishida, A, Bazyler, CD, Sayers, AL, Mizuguchi, S, and Gentles, JA. Acute effects of match-play on neuromuscular and subjective recovery and stress state in Division I collegiate female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 976-982, 2021-The purpose of this study was to investigate acute effects of match-play on neuromuscular performance and subjective recovery and stress state and the relationship between training load (TL) and changes in neuromuscular performance in female soccer players. Twelve National Collegiate Athlete Association Division I players participated (20.7 ± 2.3 years; 64.4 ± 7.2 kg; 164.5 ± 6.0 cm) and completed countermovement jump (CMJ) at 0 kg (CMJ0) and 20 kg (CMJ20) and the Short Recovery Stress Scale (SRSS) at 3 hours pre-match (Pre), 12 hours post-match (Post12), and 38 hours post-match (Post38). Countermovement jump variables included body mass, jump height (JH), modified reactive strength index (RSI), peak force (PF), relative PF, eccentric impulse, concentric impulse (CI), peak power (PP), relative PP (RPP), eccentric average PP, and concentric average power (CAP). The SRSS consists of 4 Stress Scales (SSs) and 4 Recovery Scales (RSs). Training loads included total distance, total PlayerLoad, high-speed running, and session ratings of perceived exertion. Significant moderate to large decreases were observed from Pre to Post12 in JH, RSI, CI, PP, RPP, and CAP in CMJ0 and CMJ20 (p < 0.05, effect size [ES] = 0.63-1.35). Significant changes were observed from Pre to Post12 in all RSs (p < 0.05, ES = 0.65-0.79) and 3 SSs (p < 0.05, ES = 0.71-0.77). Significant correlations were observed between CMJ20 PP from Pre to Post12 and all TLs (p < 0.05, r = -0.58 to -0.68). CMJ0 and CMJ20 JH and PP may indicate acute neuromuscular changes after match-play. The magnitude of CMJ20 PP decrements from Pre to Post12 may be affected by soccer match-play volumes.

Effects of Strength vs. Plyometric Training Programs on Vertical Jumping, Linear Sprint and Change of Direction Speed Performance in Female Soccer Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The main purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the effects of strength training (ST) and plyometric training (PT) on vertical jump, linear sprint and change of direction (COD) performance in female soccer players. A systematic search of the PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and SportDiscus databases revealed 12 studies satisfying the inclusion criteria. The inverse-variance random-effects model for meta-analyses was used. Effect sizes (ES) were represented by the standardized mean difference and presented alongside 95% confidence intervals (CI). The magnitude of the main effect was small to moderate (vertical jump (ES 0.53 (95% CI—0.11, 0.95), Z = 2.47 (p = 0.01); linear sprint (ES −0.66 (95% CI—2.03, −0.21), Z = 2.20 (p = 0.03); COD (ES −0.36 (95% CI—0.68, −0.03), Z = 2.17 (p = 0.03)). Subgroup analyses were performed (i.e., ST and PT duration, frequency, session duration and total number of sessions), revealing no significant subgroup differences (p = 0.12–0.88). In conclusion, PT provides better benefits than ST to improve vertical jump, linear sprint and COD performance in female soccer players. However, significant limitations in the current literature prevent assured PT and ST prescription recommendations being made.

Menstrual cycle phase and elite female soccer match-play: influence on various physical performance outputs

ABSTRACT Introduction The aim of the study was to investigate whether menstrual cycle phases influence the physical performance during soccer match-play. Methods Fifteen elite female soccer players, with physiologically normal menstrual cycles, competed in matches over a four-month period. Physical performance was assessed via GPS and expressed as meters per minute, and separated into four individualised thresholds (low, high, very high and sprinting). Seventy-six complete individual match observations, 36 from the follicular and 40 from the luteal phase were recorded. The differences in physical match performance parameters between the cycle phases were evaluated using a mixed linear model. Results The results of the current study indicate that very high-intensity running distance was significantly greater during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase (5.90 ± 2.16 m.min−1 vs. 6.64 ± 2.72 m.min−1; p = 0.02). However, this finding was accompanied by large variations across matches (CV = 39.5%). Conclusions Overall, the results suggest that the menstrual cycle phase does not influence match physical performance of female soccer players to a significant degree. Therefore, at present, interventions or other methods of coping with menstrual cycle phase do not seem necessary on a group/team level to maximise competitive physical performance.

Nutrition for Female Soccer Players-Recommendations.

Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world. As its number of players is increasing, the number of female players is also on the rise. However, there are limited data about how the diets of female soccer players should be designed. Thus, the aim of our work is to deliver concise nutritional recommendations for women practicing this sport. Based on a literature review, we emphasize that individual adjustment of the energy value of the diet is the key factor for the physical performance of female soccer players. Appropriate macronutrient intake makes it possible to achieve the proper energy value of the diet (5–10 g/kg body mass/day carbohydrates; 1.2–1.7 g/kg body mass/day proteins; <30% fats from energy). The micronutrients should be consumed in amounts corresponding to individual values recommended in national standards. Soccer players should pay special attention to the proper consumption of such micronutrients, as well as vitamins such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D. The right amount of fluid intake, consistent with the player’s needs, is crucial in maximizing exercise performance. The diet of a female practicing soccer is usually characterized with low energy values, which increases the risk of various health consequences related to low energy availability. Monitoring the diets of female soccer players is, therefore, necessary.

Contribution of Eccentric Strength to Cutting Performance in Female Soccer Players.

Jones, PA, Dos'Santos, T, McMahon, JJ, and Graham-Smith, P. Contribution of eccentric strength to cutting performance in female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 36(2): 525-533, 2022-The aim of this study was to examine the contribution of eccentric strength to performance of a 70-90° cutting task (CUT) (time to complete: 5 m approach, 70-90° cut, 3 m exit). Nineteen female soccer players (mean ± SD age, height, and mass; 21.7 ± 4.3 years, 1.67 ± 0.07 m, and 60.5 ± 6.1 kg) from the top 2 tiers of English women's soccer participated in the study. Each player performed 6 trials of the CUT task whereby three-dimensional motion data from 10 Qualisys proreflex cameras (240 Hz) and ground reaction forces from 2 Advanced Mechanical Technology, Inc. force platforms (1,200 Hz) were collected. Relative eccentric knee extensor (ECC-KE) and flexor peak moments (ECC-KF) were collected from both limbs at 60°·s-1 using a Kin-Com isokinetic dynamometer. Hierarchical multiple regression revealed that minimum center of mass (CM) and approach velocities (CM velocity at touchdown of penultimate foot contact) could explain 82% (79% adjusted) of the variation in CUT completion time (F(1,16) = 36.086, p < 0.0001). ECC-KE was significantly (p < 0.05) moderately associated (R ≥ 0.610) with velocities at key instances during the CUT. High (upper 50th percentile) ECC-KE individuals (n = 9) had significantly (p ≤ 0.01; d ≥ 1.34) greater velocities at key instances during the CUT. The findings suggest that individuals with higher ECC-KE produce faster CUT performance, by approaching with greater velocity and maintaining a higher velocity during penultimate and final contact, as they are better able to tolerate the larger loads associated with a faster approach.

High-intensity endurance capacity assessment as a tool for talent identification in elite youth female soccer

ABSTRACT Talent identification and development programmes have received broad attention in the last decades, yet evidence regarding the predictive utility of physical performance in female soccer players is limited. Using a retrospective design, we appraised the predictive value of performance-related measures in a sample of 228 youth female soccer players previously involved in residential Elite Performance Camps (age range: 12.7–15.3 years). With 10-m sprinting, 30-m sprinting, counter-movement jump height, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (IR1) distance as primary predictor variables, the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) assessed the relative quality of four penalised logistic regression models for determining future competitive international squads U17–U20 level selection. The model including Yo-Yo IR1 was the best for predicting career outcome. Predicted probabilities of future selection to the international squad increased with higher Yo-Yo IR1 distances, from 4.5% (95% confidence interval, 0.8 to 8.2%) for a distance lower than 440 m to 64.7% (95% confidence interval, 47.3 to 82.1%) for a score of 2040 m. The present study highlights the predictive utility of high-intensity endurance capacity for informing career progression in elite youth female soccer and provides reference values for staff involved in the talent development of elite youth female soccer players.

Effects of 7-Week Hip Thrust Versus Back Squat Resistance Training on Performance in Adolescent Female Soccer Players.

Hip thrust (HT) is a loaded bridging exercise that requires more hip extension than a back squat (SQ) does, while in a back squat, triple flex extension occurs. Due to the specificity of each exercise, it is claimed that HT gains can be better transferred to actions where hip extension occurs. In addition, strength improvements during squatting can be transferred in a greater way to vertical plane movement, such as vertical jumping. However, its effects on the performance of female soccer players are unclear. For this reason, the purpose of this study was to analyze a 7-week training program on performance variables using either HT or SQ exercises in female adolescent soccer players without lifting experience (N = 24, age = 16.82 ± 1.56 years, height = 1.64 ± 0.55 cm, body mass = 58.35 ± 6.28 kg). Players were randomized into three groups: A back squat group (SQG; N = 8), hip thrust group (HTG; N = 8), and control group (CG; N = 8). Participants in the HTG and SQG joined a progressive resistance training program twice per week for 7 weeks with either HT or SQ exercises. A countermovement jump, 10–20 m sprint, T-test, and barbell velocity during HTs and SQs (with the load that represents ~60 and ~80% RM) were measured before and after the intervention. The HTG showed greater improvements in the 10-m sprint (d = 0.7), 20-m sprint (d = 0.46), T-test (d = 0.36), and barbell velocity at 80% repetition maximal (RM) (d = 0.53) and 60% RM (d = 1.02) during hip thrusts, while the SQG showed higher barbell velocity at 80% RM (d = −0.7) during back squats. These results may be useful for strength and conditioning coaches working with adolescent female soccer athletes, since both strengthening exercises improved performance in different ways due to the nature of the exercise.

Investigation of Six-Week Beetroot Juice Ingestion on VO2max in Female Soccer Players

Background: One of the beverages improving athletic performance is beetroot juice. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate if six weeks of beetroot juice ingestion can increase VO2max and improve the performance of female soccer players. Methods: 20 female soccer players (age: 23.13 ± 0.77 years) were selected and assigned into two groups: experimental (beetroot juice, n = 10) and control (placebo, n = 10). The Bruce test was first done to assess VO2max without drinking beetroot juice. Then, the experimental group started consuming 200 mL of the juice two hours before each training session for six weeks. Finally, the second Bruce test was performed after six weeks of beetroot juice ingestion. Results: There was a significant increase in VO2max in the experimental and control groups from pretest to posttest (P < 0.001). In addition, the results of independent samples t-test showed there was a significant difference between the experimental and control groups in VO2max (P < 0.001, t = 12.39). Conclusions: The present study provides evidence that beetroot juice positively affects performance and increases the maximum volume of oxygen consumption in female soccer players. Therefore, we can propose this juice to female soccer players to improve their performance.