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Giuriato M, Carnevale Pellino V, Kawczyński A, Talpey SW, Lovecchio N. No Impact of Anthropometric and Fitness Factors on Speed-Agility in Young Soccer Players: Is It a Cognitive Influence? Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2024; 19:1058-1067. [PMID: 39168464 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Agility in young soccer players has long been associated with physical attributes like strength, speed, and power. The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between cognitive factors and agility performance in this unique population. METHODS 39 young soccer players age 13.56 (SD 0.58) years were assessed for leg-muscle function (jump tests) and maturation status (peak height velocity). The Y-Agility Test, which included decision making in players, was used to measure performance. Cognitive factors such as perceptual skills and decision making were evaluated with the Y-Agility Test. RESULTS The linear regression showed an absence of significance between the Y-Agility Test and drop-jump contact (P = .283), Y-Agility Test and drop-jump flight (P = .185), Y-Agility Test and squat jump (P = .868), and Y-Agility Test and countermovement jump (P = .310). The linear mixed-model analyses suggested a difference between early-average maturers (P = .009) and early-late maturers (P = .005) but did not show a difference between average-late subjects (P = 1.000). Drop-jump flight did not show a difference in maturation (early-average P = 1.000; early-late P = 1.000; average P = 1.000). Squat-jump performance did not demonstrate any significance (early-average P = .618; early-late P = 1.000; P = 1.000). Countermovement-jump performance did not show any significance (early-average P = 1.000; early-late P = 1.000; average-late P = .492). Finally, agility performance does not show any significance between maturation levels (early-average maturer P = .450; early-late P = 1.000; average-late P = .830). CONCLUSION Agility in young soccer players appears to follow a nonlinear trajectory, with cognitive factors possibly playing a more significant role than previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Giuriato
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Vittoria Carnevale Pellino
- Laboratory of Adapted Motor Activity (LAMA), Department of Public Health, Experimental Medicine and Forensic Science, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Adam Kawczyński
- Department of Paralympic Games, Wrocław University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Scott W Talpey
- Sport, Performance, and Nutrition Research Group, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nicola Lovecchio
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
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Thieschäfer L, Dos'Santos T, Büsch D. Cutting Technique Modification: A Way to Improve Movement Quality and Develop Agility in Youth? J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:1596-1606. [PMID: 39074239 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Abstract
Thieschäfer, L, Dos’Santos, T, and Büsch, D. Cutting technique modification: a way to improve movement quality and develop agility in youth? J Strength Cond Res 38(9): 1596–1606, 2024—High-quality cutting technique is essential for agility development and safer cuttings in adolescent athletes. Certain sidestep techniques and kinematics are characteristic of high movement quality and are associated with both, faster performance and lower knee joint loading (i.e., reduced anterior cruciate ligament injury risk). The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a 6-week, side step, technique modification training intervention targeting specific kinematics on agility performance and movement quality. Twenty-two adolescent American football players were recruited for a nonrandomized, controlled, intervention study. For 6 weeks, an intervention group (IG) of 11 players participated in 25-minute cutting technique training sessions integrated into team training twice a week, whereas a control group (CG) of 11 players continued their usual training routine. Agility performance was assessed based on percentage-based change of direction deficit (CODDp) obtained during reactive agility tests at 45° and 90° angles. The Cutting Movement Assessment Score (CMAS) qualitative screening tool was used to assess 2D high-speed videos of the cuts for movement quality. The significance level was set at α = 0.01. The intervention effectively altered players' sidestep technique irrespective of cutting angle with large time × group interaction effects observed for CMAS (
= 0.82). Statistical and practical significant improvements in CMAS pre-to-post intervention were evident in the IG (−2.30 ≤ g ≤ −1.75; 313.87 ≤ BF10 ≤ 2,342.00), whereas deteriorations were found in the CG for 90° (g = 1.38; BF10 = 64.21). However, in both groups, no statistically significant differences in CODDp were observed pre-to-post intervention (0.019 ≤ p ≤ 0.586; 0.34 ≤ BF10 ≤ 3.59). The cutting technique modification training meaningfully improved movement quality, without negatively affecting agility performance, and can be used by practitioners to foster a safe technical foundation for subsequent agility development in adolescent athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lutz Thieschäfer
- Department of Sport and Training, Institute of Sport Science, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany ; and
| | - Thomas Dos'Santos
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Manchester Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Dirk Büsch
- Department of Sport and Training, Institute of Sport Science, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany ; and
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Baccouch R, Borji R, Ayed H, Sahli S, Zammit Y, Rebai H. Effects of Specific Dual Task Training on Change of Direction Ability, Cognitive Flexibility, and Inhibition in Young Soccer Players. Percept Mot Skills 2024:315125241266901. [PMID: 39033336 DOI: 10.1177/00315125241266901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
In the current study we aimed to investigate the effect of specific dual task training (SDTT) compared to conventional soccer training (CST) on motor and cognitive performances in U13 elite soccer players. Twenty-four young soccer players (all males) participated in this study. We measured their change of direction ability (CODA) and cognitive performances (cognitive flexibility and inhibition) before and after four weeks in either the SDTT group or the CST group. We administered the Trail-Making Test (TMT) to evaluate cognitive flexibility and the Stroop test to evaluate cognitive inhibition. We assessed CODA using the t test (TT). After training, CODA (p < .001), cognitive flexibility (p < .001), and inhibition (p < .001) were improved only in the SDTT group. These results suggest that SDTT seems more suitable than CST to optimally improve both CODA and cognitive performances in U13 elite soccer players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rym Baccouch
- Research Laboratory 'Education, Motricity, Sports and Health', (EM2S, LR19JS01), High Institute of Sport and Physical Education, University of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Rihab Borji
- Research Laboratory 'Education, Motricity, Sports and Health', (EM2S, LR19JS01), High Institute of Sport and Physical Education, University of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Hafedh Ayed
- Tunisian Research Laboratory 'Sports Performance Optimization (LR09SEP01), National Center of Medicine and Science in Sports (CNMSS), Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Sonia Sahli
- Research Laboratory 'Education, Motricity, Sports and Health', (EM2S, LR19JS01), High Institute of Sport and Physical Education, University of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Yosra Zammit
- Research Laboratory 'Education, Motricity, Sports and Health', (EM2S, LR19JS01), High Institute of Sport and Physical Education, University of Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Haithem Rebai
- Tunisian Research Laboratory 'Sports Performance Optimization (LR09SEP01), National Center of Medicine and Science in Sports (CNMSS), Tunis, Tunisia
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Koźlenia D, Popowczak M, Horička P, Šimonek J, Domaradzki J. Sex-specific relationship patterns between body morphology and maturity status with change of direction and agility in elite adolescent volleyball players. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13170. [PMID: 38849450 PMCID: PMC11161477 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64190-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
This study explored sex-specific patterns in the relationship between maturity, body morphology, and change of direction (COD) and agility (AG) in adolescent volleyball players. The sample comprised 22 males and 24 females aged 15-17 with at least 4 years of sports experience. Measurements included body height, weight, muscle and fat mass, leg length, and center of mass. The study determined the Age of Peak Height Velocity (APHV) and evaluated sensorimotor ability through pre-planned COD and not-planned AG five-time shuttle runs, measuring the time difference as the index of reactivity. Positive correlations were found between COD and AG with fat mass index (FMI) in boys, while negative relative lower limb length (rLL) correlated with COD. In females, age of peak height velocity (APHV) showed a significant negative relationship with sensorimotor ability. Linear and polynomial regressions confirmed predictive and curvilinear relationships, respectively. Cluster analysis identified different associations in boys and girls, emphasizing sex-specific patterns. Body fat percentage had a negative impact on COD-AG in boys, while the optimal lower limb length proportion positively influenced COD due to enhanced maneuverability. Maturation affected sensorimotor abilities in girls. The findings suggest a need for a tailored approach to COD-AG development based on sex-specific considerations in adolescent volleyball players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawid Koźlenia
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, I.J. Paderewskiego 35, 51-612, Wroclaw, Poland.
| | - Marek Popowczak
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, I.J. Paderewskiego 35, 51-612, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Pavol Horička
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 94901, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Jaromir Šimonek
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 1, 94901, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Jarosław Domaradzki
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, I.J. Paderewskiego 35, 51-612, Wroclaw, Poland
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Dugdale JH, Myers T, Sanders D, Andrew M, Clarke R, Hunter AM. Evaluation of multi-directional speed qualities throughout adolescence in youth soccer: The non-linear nature of transfer. J Sports Sci 2024; 42:301-312. [PMID: 38484363 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2024.2329846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Training and assessment of agility is often prioritised by soccer coaches and practitioners aiming to develop multi-directional speed. Although the importance of agility is advocated throughout childhood and adolescence, limited data evidence agility performance at different stages of adolescence. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in multi-directional speed performance in youth soccer players spanning an entire soccer academy. A total of 86 male junior-elite soccer players volunteered to participate. Anthropometric data were collected, alongside performance data from a battery of physical tests including sprinting, jumping, change of direction, reaction time, and agility. Bayesian models using log-likelihoods from posterior simulations of parameter values displayed linear or curvilinear relationships between both chronological and biological age and performance in all tests other than agility and reaction time. For agility and reaction time tests, performance improved until ~14 years of age or the estimated age of peak height velocity whereby arrested development in performance was observed. Our results demonstrate that while most performance skills improve as chronological or biological age increases, measures of agility and reaction time may not. These findings support the notion that agility performance is complex and multifaceted, eliciting unique, challenging physical demands and non-linear development.
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Affiliation(s)
- James H Dugdale
- School of Applied Sciences, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Tony Myers
- Sport, Physical Activity and Health Research Centre, Newman University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dajo Sanders
- Department of Human Movement Science, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Matthew Andrew
- Department for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Institute of Sport, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Richard Clarke
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Education, University of South Wales, Wales, UK
| | - Angus M Hunter
- Department of Sport Science, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
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Matlák J, Fridvalszki M, Kóródi V, Szamosszegi G, Pólyán E, Kovács B, Kolozs B, Langmár G, Rácz L. Relationship Between Cognitive Functions and Agility Performance in Elite Young Male Soccer Players. J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:116-122. [PMID: 38085622 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Matlák, J, Fridvalszki, M, Kóródi, V, Szamosszegi, G, Pólyán, E, Kovács, B, Kolozs, B, Langmár, G, and Rácz, L. Relationship between cognitive functions and agility performance in elite, young, male soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 38(1): 116-122, 2024-The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between agility performance and cognitive functions measured under laboratory conditions among elite young soccer players. Twenty-five, elite, young, male soccer players (12.3 ± 0.4 years, 155.4 ± 7.6 cm, 42.6 ± 6.9 kg) completed a battery of field tests, including 5-, 10-, 20-m sprints, change of direction speed (CODS), standing long jump, and an agility test based on a human stimulus. Subjects also completed choice reaction (RT, S3) and reactive stress tolerance (DT, S1) tests on the Vienna Test System. There was a moderate significant relationship (p < 0.05) found between mean reaction time and mean motor time during the choice reaction task and decision time in the agility test. Decision time also showed a large significant correlation (p < 0.05) with total time in the agility test. No significant correlation was found between total time in the agility test and variables measured during RT and DT tests. No significant correlations were found between agility test results and results from straight line sprints, CODS, and standing long jump tests. The results of this study suggest that choice reaction time is related to decision-making speed during the agility task used in this study and can have an indirect effect on agility performance in elite young soccer players. Further studies assessing the relationship between different cognitive functions and agility performance in different sports and age categories could help in the identification of determinant cognitive functions in perceptual and decision-making factors of agility.
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Affiliation(s)
- János Matlák
- Department of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, Budapest, Hungary; and
- Budapest Honvéd Football Club, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marcell Fridvalszki
- Department of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, Budapest, Hungary; and
| | | | | | - Edina Pólyán
- Budapest Honvéd Football Club, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Bálint Kovács
- Department of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, Budapest, Hungary; and
| | | | - Gergely Langmár
- Department of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, Budapest, Hungary; and
| | - Levente Rácz
- Department of Kinesiology, Hungarian University of Sports Science, Budapest, Hungary; and
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Influence of Physical Fitness, Anthropometric Profile, and Biological Maturation on Technical Performance and Enjoyment of Untrained Children Who Participate in Continuous and Fractional Small-Sided Games. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9111730. [PMID: 36421179 PMCID: PMC9688622 DOI: 10.3390/children9111730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The objective is to determine the relationship between physical fitness, anthropometric measures, and biological maturation as they relate to technical performance in small-sided games (SSGs) of continuous and fractioned regimes. Methodology: A crossover-design study in which 12 children participated in two regimens of SSG (continuous and fractional). At the beginning of the study, all children were evaluated using physical fitness tests (horizontal jump test, vertical jump, cardiorespiratory fitness, and agility), anthropometric profile (weight, height, Body Mass Index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC)), and biological maturation (peak years of growth velocity). All sessions were recorded and analyzed with the Performance Assessment in Team Sports instrument, and at the end of each game each child was asked to answer a scale of enjoyment for physical activity. Results: The results of the paired samples t-test showed no significant differences in the measures of technical performance and perceived enjoyment for the continuous and fractional regimens of SSGs (p > 0.05). The correlation results showed that technical performance in the continuous and fractional regimes was related to agility, horizontal jump, and height, while biological maturation was only related to technical performance in the fractional regimen of SSGs. Perceived enjoyment showed a negative relationship with weight, height, BMI, and WC. Conclusion: The fractional and continuous regimens of SSGs implemented in this study induced similar technical demands and enjoyment. Furthermore, the results suggest that physical fitness, anthropometric profile, and biological maturation may influence the technical performance and enjoyment of SSGs.
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