How Does Functional Soccer Training on Uneven Ground Affect Dynamic Stability of Lower Limbs in Young Soccer Players

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the level of lower limbs’ stability under dynamic conditions in soccer players before and after the preparatory period. The results of young players were compared with the control group’s records. The analysis included, both, the dominant (the one kicking the ball) and the non-dominant (supporting) limb. METHODS: 13 players from AGAPE Soccer Academy in Białołęka (year 2002), participated in this study. The control group were 18 young, healthy, and active volunteers (14 male, and 4 female; mean age = 21,4±1,2 years). The dynamic stabilography was recorded on Biodex Balance System device. For data analysis, the bending dispersion in the medial/lateral plane, and anterior/posterior plane, along with the overall stability index (OSI) were tested. The measurements were taken in single-leg stance on the right and left leg respectively. Each testing included 3 repetitions in 30 seconds intervals on the platform’s second level of testing. The preliminary study was performed before the beginning of the season’s preparatory period. During the preparatory period, which lasted 16 weeks, the motor activity training programme was completed (90 minutes, once a week). The programme included elements such as: functional soccer training and stabilization training on an unstable ground, core stability training, dynamic stability exercises, and lower limbs coordination and strength training. After the preparatory period, the health examinations were performed. Test results were statistically analysed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test in order to establish parameters’ changes within the study group, and the U-Mann-Whitney test was applied in order to estimate the variances between the study and control groups. The statistical significance threshold was p≤0,05. RESULTS: The study showed a significant statistical improvement of stability parameters expressed by the overall stability index (OSI) and A/P stability index for the supporting limb after the preparatory period, during which a stability and proprioception training was completed. The significance of these results is even greater when the parallel substantial increase of the physical body height of these young players is taken into account (the taller the player is, the harder it is for him to keep the balance). The players’ tests results are, also, statistically lower than the control group’s data. That, in turn, means that the players had better stability in comparison to the control group. This co-dependence regarding the overall stability was mainly affected by the A/P stability indexes taken in a sagittal plane. Also, no new injuries were recorded within the young players group. CONCLUSION: 1. The exercised functional training significantly improved stability results of the supporting limb among the young players. 2. The results encourage to continue the study, and, in the later stage, check whether there is an actual relationship between the dynamic stability results and sports achievements combined with the frequency of injuries.