Latest research in football - week 12 - 2022

#1 The prevalence and effect of the sites of pain in female soccer players with medial shin pain

Reference: J Sports Med Phys Fitness. 2022 Mar 25. doi: 10.23736/S0022-4707.22.13655-8. Online ahead of print.

Authors: Takumi Okunuki, Hirohisa Magoshi, Toshihiro Maemichi, Zijian Liu, Hirofumi Tanaka, Masatomo Matsumoto, Takuma Hoshiba, Tsukasa Kumai

Summary: Female soccer players are often diagnosed with medial shin pain, which includes tibial stress fracture, medial tibial stress syndrome, and chronic exertional compartment syndrome. As the possibility of varied sites of pain affecting sports activities has not been fully researched, an urgent discussion and evidence is required. This study investigates the prevalence and effect of sites of pain on the sports activities of female soccer players with medial shin pain. A questionnaire survey was conducted for 196 female soccer players with medial shin pain to assess symptom duration, the effect of practice and performance, and sites of pain. The players were classified into three conditions (tibial stress fracture, medial tibial stress syndrome, or medial shin pain with neurological symptoms) and compared based on sites of pain. We observed that medial tibial stress syndrome had a lower impact on performance compared to that of tibial stress fracture and medial shin pain with neurological symptoms. While participants with tibial stress fracture had to suspend practice sessions more frequently, the difference in symptom duration between the classified groups was not statistically significant. The effect of sites of pain on sports activities was not significantly different in participants with medial tibial stress syndrome. Medial shin pain should be evaluated carefully to differentiate between medial tibial stress syndrome and medial shin pain with neurological symptoms. Restriction of sports activities may help improve the patient's condition early, regardless of the presentation.

 

 

#2 Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Responses to an Isokinetic Testing Protocol in Professional Soccer Players

Reference: J Clin Med. 2022 Mar 11;11(6):1539. doi: 10.3390/jcm11061539.

Authors: Arturo Pérez-Gosalvez, Francisco García-Muro San José, Ofelia Carrión-Otero, Tomás Pérez-Fernández, Luis Fernández-Rosa

Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/11/6/1539/htm

Summary: The aim of this study was to determine blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) responses triggered during an isokinetic testing protocol in professional soccer players and compare cardiovascular parameters at completion of this isokinetic protocol with those during a treadmill test. Using purposive sampling, 63 professional soccer players were recruited. Cardiovascular responses were measured noninvasively during a bilateral testing protocol of knee flexion and extension. Treadmill ergospirometry following an incremental speed protocol was performed to analyze the same cardiovascular parameters at rest and at completion of this test. There were significant differences in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and HR according to field position. The parameters presented high homogeneity at both competitive levels. Systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, HR, and rate pressure product at completion of the treadmill test were significantly higher than those at completion of the isokinetic protocol. Intermittent isokinetic testing protocol of the knee triggers normal and safe BP and HR responses in healthy professional soccer players. The HR of the defenders was higher than those of the forwards and midfielders but was independent of the competitive level. The values of cardiovascular parameters at isokinetic protocol completion were lower than those during the treadmill test.

 

 

#3 Body Composition Interactions with Physical Fitness: A Cross-Sectional Study in Youth Soccer Players

Reference: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Mar 18;19(6):3598. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19063598.

Authors: César Leão, Ana Filipa Silva, Georgian Badicu, Filipe Manuel Clemente, Roberto Carvutto, Gianpiero Greco, Stefania Cataldi, Francesco Fischetti

Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/6/3598/htm

Summary: This study aimed to: (i) analyze fat mass and physical fitness variations among age-groups and playing positions, and (ii) explore the relationship between fat mass and physical fitness in youth male soccer players. A total of 66 players from under-16, under-17, and under-19 were tested. Body mass, skinfolds, countermovement jump (CMJ), single-leg triple hop jump (SLTH), bilateral triple hop jump (BTH), and yo-yo intermittent recovery Level 2 (YYIR-2) were assessed. A two- and one-way ANOVA were conducted, and the effect size was measured. Interactions were found in skin folds and fat mass. The under-19 group was taller, heavier, with a greater BMI and muscle mass than the under-16 group. They also exceeded the under-16 and under-17 in SLTH, BTH, and YYIRT-2. The under-17 group jumped higher and longer than under-16 group. Goalkeepers were taller and heavier than the midfielders. Central defenders were taller and had more muscle mass than midfielders and were heavier than the midfielders and wingers. The wingers jumped higher than the midfielders and showed better YYIRT-2. BMI was small correlated with YYIRT-2 and moderately with CMJ. Fat mass had a moderate negative correlation with CMJ and YYIRT-2. Muscle mass largely correlated with CMJ, UTH, very large with BTH and moderate with YYIRT-2. Summarily, with increasing age, better performances and body compositions were registered. Muscle mass better influences performance than body fat. Body composition can distinguish players positions.

 

 

#4 Using Coordinated Visual and Verbal Cues in Complex Multimedia Materials to Improve Tactical Learning in Soccer

Reference: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Mar 12;19(6):3365. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19063365.

Authors: Nourhen Mezghanni, Ghazi Rekik, Zachary J Crowley-McHattan, Yosra Belkhir, Rayda Ben Ayed, Atyh Hadadi, Turki Mohsen Alzahrani, Cheng-Deng Kuo, Yung-Sheng Chen

Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/6/3365/htm

Summary: This study aimed to explore whether the use of coordinated visual and verbal cues in narrated diagrams would support novices in learning soccer scenes. Eighty female university students (Mage = 20 years, SD = 1.2) in physical education (PE) were randomly exposed to four multimedia material versions: (a) simple without cues, (b) simple with cues, (c) complex without cues, and (d) complex with cues. In the non-cued versions, students learned the evolution of soccer scenes via arrow-based diagrams accompanied by oral explanations. In the cued versions, game actions in narrations were spoken with a louder accent (verbal cueing), while at the same time, the corresponding arrows turned red in diagrams (visual cueing). After studying one of the four versions, participants were asked to complete immediate and delayed recall-reconstruction tests, and to indicate their attitudes towards instructional materials. The results demonstrate the instructional benefits of using coordinated dual-modality cues in the complex multimedia material, in terms of immediate (p = 0.03, d = 0.53) and delayed (p = 0.02, d = 0.85) recall performances. The findings encourage soccer teachers to verbalize game actions with a louder accent, while simultaneously coloring the corresponding arrows in the diagram when explaining complex game situations for novices.

 

 

#5 Countermovement Jump Force-Time Curve Analysis between Strength-Matched Male and Female Soccer Players

Reference: Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Mar 12;19(6):3352. doi: 10.3390/ijerph19063352.

Authors: Christopher Thomas, Paul A Jones, Thomas Dos'Santos

Download link: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/19/6/3352/htm

Summary: The purpose of this study was to compare countermovement jump force-time measures between strength-matched male and female soccer players. Males (n = 11) and females (n = 11) were strength-matched via isometric mid-thigh pull testing, whereby peak force values were normalised to body mass. Subjects performed three maximal-effort countermovement jumps (CMJs) on a force platform from which a range of kinetic and kinematic variables were calculated via forward dynamics. Thereafter, differences in gross measures were examined via independent t-tests, while differences in force-, power-, velocity-, and displacement-time curves throughout the entire CMJ were analysed using statistical parametric mapping (SPM). Jump height, reactive strength index modified, propulsion mean force, propulsion impulse, and propulsion mean velocity were all greater for males (d = 1.50 to 3.07). Relative force- and velocity-time curves were greater for males at 86-93% (latter half of the concentric phase) and 85-100% (latter half of the concentric phase) of normalized movement time, respectively. Time to take-off, braking phase time, braking mean velocity and impulse, propulsion phase time and centre of mass displacement were similar between males and females (d = -0.23 to 0.97). This research demonstrates the strength of SPM to identify changes between entire force-time curves. Continued development and the use of SPM analysis could present the opportunity for a refined comparison of strength-matched male and female CMJ performance with the analysis of entire force-time curves.

 

 

#6 Injury risk is greater in physically mature versus biologically younger male soccer players from academies in different countries

Reference: Phys Ther Sport. 2022 Mar 17;55:111-118. doi: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2022.03.006. Online ahead of print.

Authors: Elliott C R Hall, Jon Larruskain, Susana M Gil, Josean A Lekue, Philipp Baumert, Edgardo Rienzi, Sacha Moreno, Marcio Tannure, Conall F Murtagh, Jack D Ade, Paul Squires, Patrick Orme, Liam Anderson, Craig M Whitworth-Turner, James P Morton, Barry Drust, Alun G Williams, Robert M Erskine

Summary: The aim was to investigate if maturity status was associated with injury risk in male academy soccer players. 501 players (aged 9-23 years) from eight academies in England, Spain, Uruguay and Brazil participated in this study. Players were grouped by maturity offset as pre-peak height velocity (PHV), circa-PHV, post-PHV or adult. Injury prevalence proportion (IPP) and days missed were recorded for one season per player, with training/match exposure recorded in a sub-sample (n = 166). IPP for all injuries combined increased with advancing maturity, with circa-PHV (p = 0.032), post-PHV (p < 0.001) and adult (p < 0.001) higher than pre-PHV. IPP was higher in post-PHV and adult than pre-PHV for non-contact (p = 0.001 and p = 0.012), soft-tissue (both p < 0.001), non-contact soft-tissue (p < 0.001 and p = 0.005), muscle (both p < 0.001), thigh (both p < 0.001), ankle (p = 0.035 and p = 0.007) and hamstring injuries (p = 0.041 and p = 0.017). Ligament/tendon IPP was greater in adult versus pre-PHV (p = 0.002). IPP for growth-related injuries was lower in post-PHV than pre-PHV (p = 0.039). Injury incidence rates (n = 166) exhibited similar patterns to IPP in the full cohort. Injury patterns were similar between post-PHV and adult academy players but, crucially, relatively more of these groups suffered injuries compared to pre- and circa-PHV (except growth-related injuries).

 

 

#7 A Video-Based Tactical Task Does Not Elicit Mental Fatigue and Does Not Impair Soccer Performance in a Subsequent Small-Sided Game

Reference: Sports (Basel). 2022 Feb 27;10(3):31. doi: 10.3390/sports10030031.

Authors: Gianmarco Ciocca, Antonio Tessitore, Mauro Mandorino, Harald Tschan

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8955000/pdf/sports-10-00031.pdf

Summary: Mental fatigue can impair physical, technical, and tactical performance in sports. Since most previous research used general cognitive tasks to elicit mental fatigue, the aim of this study was to investigate whether a more sport-specific task could induce the effects of mental fatigue and impair the subsequent physical and technical performance in a soccer small-sided game. Ten soccer players performed two small-sided games on two different days in a crossover design. Before each small-sided game, they performed a video-based tactical task (30 min) and a control task (documentary watching, 30 min) in a randomized and counterbalanced order. Mental effort was measured through a visual analog scale after the tactical and control tasks. Subjective ratings of perceived exertion were assessed through the RPE questionnaire after the end of the SSG. Physical performance was assessed during the SSG through GPS technology. Results showed no differences (p &gt; 0.05) in physical performance between the two conditions. None of the technical variables were negatively affected by the video-based tactical condition, with the number of total passes (p = 0.003; ES = 0.72 medium) and successful passes (p = 0.003; ES = 0.82 large) results even improved by the video-based tactical task. The mental effort required by the video-tactical task was significantly higher than the control task (p = 0.002; ES = 2.09 huge). However, overall RPE did not differ between conditions. The video-based tactical task did not elicit mental fatigue and did not impair subsequent physical and technical performance. The higher ecological validity of the task and the higher motivation of the participants might have contributed to the results.

 

 

#8 Association between Concentric and Eccentric Isokinetic Torque and Unilateral Countermovement Jump Variables in Professional Soccer Players

Reference: J Funct Morphol Kinesiol. 2022 Feb 25;7(1):25. doi: 10.3390/jfmk7010025.

Authors: Bruno Mazziotti Oliveira Alves, Robson Dias Scoz, Ricardo Lima Burigo, Isabella Christina Ferreira, Ana Paula Silveira Ramos, Jose Joao Baltazar Mendes, Luciano Maia Alves Ferreira, Cesar Ferreira Amorim

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8953202/pdf/jfmk-07-00025.pdf

Summary: Isokinetic tests have been highly valuable to athletic analysis, but their cost and technical operation turn them inaccessible. The purpose of this study was to verify the correlation between unilateral countermovement jump variables and isokinetic data. Thirty-two male professional soccer players were subjected to the isokinetic testing of both knee extensors and flexors in concentric and eccentric muscle contractions. They also executed unilateral countermovement vertical jumps (UCMJ) to compare maximum height, ground reaction force, and impulse power with isokinetic peak torque. Data analysis was conducted through Pearson correlation and linear regression. A high correlation was found between dominant unilateral extensor concentric peak torque and the UCMJ maximum height of the dominant leg. The non-dominant leg jump showed a moderate correlation. No other variable showed statistical significance. Linear regression allowed the generation of two formulae to estimate the peak torque from UCMJ for dominant and non-dominant legs. Although few studies were found to compare our results, leading to more studies being needed, a better understanding of the unilateral countermovement jump may be used in the future as a substitute to the expensive and technically demanding isokinetic testing when it is unavailable, allowing the assessment of lower limb physical asymmetries in athletic or rehabilitation environments.

 

 

#9 Exploring the Y-Balance-Test scores and inter-limb asymmetry in soccer players: differences between competitive level and field positions

Reference: BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2022 Mar 23;14(1):45. doi: 10.1186/s13102-022-00438-w.

Authors: Francisco Tomás González-Fernández, Luis Manuel Martínez-Aranda, Moisés Falces-Prieto, Hadi Nobari, Filipe Manuel Clemente

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8944159/pdf/13102_2022_Article_438.pdf

Summary: The postural stability seems to be important in the physical development of the soccer player and the specific tasks related to the game. In addition, it is related to the injury risk and therefore, with the injury prevention and retraining processes. In this context, the Y Balance Test (YBT) is presented as a tool to assess dynamic postural control. This study aimed to explore the differences and possible correlations in the YBT scores and inter-limb asymmetry for anterior (ANT), posteromedial (PM) and posterolateral (PL) directions by category and field position in soccer players. 173 males soccer players aged between 14 and 33 years old agreed to participate. Five categories and six field position were considered in this study. A standardised protocol was used at multiple clubs during the pre-season assessment of musculoskeletal function in soccer players. All the players performed the Y Balance Test (YBT) (official YBT Kit), assessing the dominant and non-dominant leg for three YBT directions (anterior-AN, posteromedial-PM and posterolateral-PL), inter-limb asymmetry and composite score. For AN, amateur and semiprofessional obtained the highest values for Dominant and Non-Dominant legs (Rangemean = 101.8-109.4%) and the lowest level in PRO players (mean: 62.0%). Concerning PM-PL, semiprofessional (Rangemean = 126.4-132.7%, dominant and non-Dominant respectively), followed by professional and amateur reported higher scores compared to youth categories. Inter-limb asymmetry showed higher values in lower age categories. The best composite scores were detected in semiprofessionals (Rangemean = 113.3-126.7% for dominant and Rangemean = 113.8-129.7% for non-Dominant leg), compared with the rest of the categories and for each field position evaluated. Comparisons between field-positions revealed that centre-backs were worse than wingers and forwards. In order to explain variations in dynamic balance between competitive levels within the same age-group, special considerations about training programmes and related co-variables should be considered.

 

 

#10 Post-Match Recovery in Soccer with Far-Infrared Emitting Ceramic Material or Cold-Water Immersion

Reference: J Sports Sci Med. 2021 Oct 1;20(4):732-742. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2021.732. eCollection 2021 Dec.

Authors: Tiago M Coelho, Renan F H Nunes, Fabio Y Nakamura, Rob Duffield, Marília C Serpa, Juliano F da Silva, Lorival J Carminatt, Francisco J Cidral-Filho, Mariana P Goldim, Khiany Mathias, Fabricia Petronilho, Daniel F Martins, Luiz G A Guglielmo

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8488839/pdf/jssm-20-732.pdf

Summary: We investigated the effects of two common recovery methods; far-infrared emitting ceramic materials (Bioceramic) or cold-water immersion on muscular function and damage after a soccer match. Twenty-five university-level soccer players were randomized into Bioceramic (BIO; n = 8), Cold-water immersion (CWI; n = 9), or Control (CON; n = 8) groups. Heart rate [HR], rating of perceived exertion [RPE], and activity profile through Global Positioning Satellite Systems were measured during the match. Biochemical (thiobarbituric acid reactive species [TBARS], superoxide dismutase [SOD], creatine kinase [CK], lactate dehydrogenase [LDH]), neuromuscular (countermovement [CMJ] and squat jump [SJ], sprints [20-m]), and perceptual markers (delayed-onset muscle soreness [DOMS], and the perceived recovery scale [PRS]) were assessed at pre, post, 24 h, and 48 h post-match. One-way ANOVA was used to compare anthropometric and match performance data. A two-way ANOVA with post-hoc tests compared the timeline of recovery measures. No significant differences existed between groups for anthropometric or match load measures (P > 0.05). Significant post-match increases were observed in SOD, and decreases in TBARS in all groups (p < 0.05), without differences between conditions (p > 0.05). Significant increases in CK, LDH, quadriceps and hamstring DOMS (p < 0.05), as well as decreases in 20-m, SJ, CMJ, and PRS were observed post-match in all groups (p < 0.05), without significant differences between conditions (p > 0.05). Despite the expected post-match muscle damage and impaired performance, neither Bioceramic nor CWI interventions improved post-match recovery.

 

 

#11 The Impact of Moderate and High Intensity Cardiovascular Exertion on Sub-Elite Soccer Referee's Cognitive Performance: A Lab-Based Study

Reference: J Sports Sci Med. 2021 Oct 1;20(4):618-625. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2021.618. eCollection 2021 Dec.

Authors: Isabelle Senécal, Samuel J Howarth, Greg D Wells, Isaac Raymond, Silvano Mior

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8488827/pdf/jssm-20-618.pdf

Summary: Soccer referees represent a specialized population who are required to perform decisional or perceptual tasks during physical exertion. Recent studies have demonstrated that submaximal acute exercise has a positive impact on cognitive performance. However, less is known about the impact of more strenuous exertion on cognitive performance. This study assessed the effect of moderate and maximal intensity exercise exertion on a cognitive performance in sub-elite soccer referees. Twelve experienced soccer referees (4 female, 8 male) were recruited. Data were collected on 2 separate days. Baseline fitness level was assessed by a standardized aerobic capacity test (VO2max Test) on Day 1, along with practice trials of the Stroop Color Word Test (Stroop Test) for evaluating cognitive performance. On Day 2, cognitive performance was assessed before, during, and after an incremental intensity exercise protocol based on the Fédération International de Football Association (FIFA) referee fitness test. Relative to results obtained at rest performance on the Stroop Test improved at moderate exertion and at maximal exertion during the modified FIFA fitness test (F = 18.97, p = .005). Mean time to completion (in seconds) of the interference Stroop task significantly improved (p < .05) between rest and moderate exertion [-3.0 ± 3.0 seconds] and between rest and maximal exertion [-4.8 ± 2.6 seconds]. In summary, we observed that cognitive performance was found to improve when sub-elite soccer referees performed moderate and maximal exercise relative to results obtained at rest. It is possible that referees focus their attention to improve goal-oriented processing in the brain during physical exertion.

 

 

#12 Gastrointestinal Hormones, Morphological Characteristics, and Physical Performance in Elite Soccer Players

Reference: Int J Sports Physiol Perform. 2022 Mar 23;1-11. doi: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0484. Online ahead of print.

Authors: Iyed Salhi, Abderraouf Ben Aabderrahman, Raoua Triki, Cain C T Clark, Sabri Gaed, Anthony C Hackney, Ayoub Saeidi, Ismail Laher, Jennifer A Kurtz, Trisha A VanDusseldorp, Hassane Zouhal

Summary: The purpose was to determine the relationship between gastrointestinal hormones (leptin, glucagon-like peptide-1), ghrelin, cholecystokinin, peptide YY, morphological characteristics, and physical performances in elite soccer players. Q2 Twenty-two elite male soccer players (age = 23.1 [2.7] y, height = 177.0 [0.1] cm, weight = 70.2 [2.9] kg, body mass index = 22.1 [1.8] kg/m2) completed 3-day food records each week during the 5-week training period. Blood samples were drawn after an overnight fast before and after preseason training to assess gastrointestinal hormones (leptin, glucagon-like peptide-1, ghrelin, cholecystokinin, and peptide YY). Continuous analysis of the training load was used during the training period. Preintervention and postintervention tests assessed jumping (countermovement jump), sprinting (10, 20, and 30 m), and endurance fitness (the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 [YYIRT1]) levels. Preseason training decreased body mass index (P = .001; effect size [ES] = 0.183) and body fat percentage (P = .001; ES = 0.516). There were increases in countermovement jump (P = .032; ES = 0.215), 20- (P = .016; ES = 0.195) and 30-m sprints (P = .001; ES = 0.188), and YYIRT1 performance (P = .001; ES = 0.9). Levels of cholecystokinin, peptide YY, and ghrelin did not change during preseason training, although changes in leptin (P = .001; ES = 0.41) and glucagon-like peptide-1 levels (P = .039; ES = 0.606) were recorded. Leptinemia correlated with anthropometric parameters (body mass index, r = .77, P = .001; percentage of body fat,r = .67, P = .006) and the total distance covered during the YYIRT1 (r = -.54; P = .03). Changes in morphological parameters and physical performance in elite-level male soccer players are related to variations in selected gastrointestinal hormones.

 

 

#13 The Practical Utility of Objective Training Load Indices in Division I College Soccer Players

Reference: J Strength Cond Res. 2022 Apr 1;36(4):1026-1030. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000004227.

Authors: Troy A Coppus, Travis Anderson, Eoin Hurley, Diane L Gill, Pamela K Brown

Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate the association of subjective session rating of perceived exertion with objective training load measures and explored data reduction approaches for 26 commonly measured objective load metrics. One National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I male soccer team (N = 28) provided 26 objective measures via a global positioning system and heart rate monitor system and self-report rating of perceived exertion measures for all team activities through the 12-week 2019 fall championship season. The singular associations between session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) and objective load metrics were assessed via repeated-measures correlation and collectively assessed via elastic net regression. Principal components analysis was then used to reduce the dimensionality of objective load variables. Level of significance for the study was α ≤ 0.05. The training load variable had the highest correlation with sRPE (r = 0.85) among the 26 metrics. Twenty variables were retained in the elastic-net regression and demonstrated an R2 of 0.76. The principal components analysis demonstrated a 4-component solution. The components were qualitatively described as "moderate- or high-intensity external load," "low-intensity load," "high-intensity internal load," and "average internal load" and accounted for 46, 32, 16, and 6% of the variance, respectively. The sRPE metric had strong correlations with multiple objective measures, demonstrating its utility for practitioners monitoring training load in collegiate soccer with limited resources. Furthermore, the consolidation of 26 metrics into 4 components while retaining data variability allows coaches to focus on a small number of metrics and employ a data-driven approach to training.

 

 

#14 Inter- and intra-microcycle external load analysis in female professional soccer players: A playing position approach

Reference: PLoS One. 2022 Mar 22;17(3):e0264908. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264908. eCollection 2022.

Authors: Elba Diaz-Seradilla, Alejandro Rodríguez-Fernández, José Antonio Rodríguez-Marroyo, Daniel Castillo, Javier Raya-González, José Gerardo Villa Vicente

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8939825/pdf/pone.0264908.pdf

Summary: This study analyzes the inter- and intra-differences in external load across the microcycle in professional female soccer players. External load during four consecutive microcycles (i.e., M1, M2, M3, and M4) and training sessions (i.e., MD-4, MD-3, MD-2, and MD-1) and a match day (i.e., MD) were registered in seventeen female professional soccer players (age: 26.3 ± 4.6 years; height: 166.3 ± 6.1 cm; body mass: 59.8 ± 6.8 kg; and body mass index: 21.6 ± 1.7 kg·m-2) who belonged to the same team in Spanish first division. A 10-Hz GPS that integrated a 100-Hz triaxial accelerometer was used to register external load. The results showed lower decelerations in M2 compared to M1 and M3 (p < 0.05), lower high-intensity distance (>16.0 km·h-1) in M3 vs. M2, and greater relative sprint distance (>21.0 km·min-1) in M4 vs. M1 and M3 (p < 0.05). MD-3 registered the highest load for all variables (p < 0.05). Forwards (FWs) performed (p < 0.05) significantly more sprints (meters and number > 21.0 km·h-1) than central midfielders (CMs) and central defenders (CDs) in MD-2 and MD. Both, fitness and conditioning staff should pay special attention to the external loads for each playing position in training sessions to optimize the training process.

 

 

#15 A standardized method for quantifying and characterizing repetitive head impacts in soccer matches using video footage

Reference: Sci Med Footb. 2022 Mar 19. doi: 10.1080/24733938.2022.2056233. Online ahead of print.

Authors: Tara Porfido, Jaclyn Caccese, Jessica Gutt, Conor Wentworth, Kerry Peek, Abigail C Bretzin, Carrie Esopenko

Summary: Soccer athletes experience repetitive head impacts (RHI) through purposeful heading and unintentional head impacts, which may be associated with acute and chronic brain injury. Previous soccer studies have sought to quantify and characterize RHI, but to-date no consistent, standardized methods exist. The Heads-Up Checklist (HUC), originally used for characterizing head impacts in hockey, was modified to be used in soccer (soccer HUC [SHUC]). Our aim was to determine the reliability of quantifying ball-to-head impacts using video verification and to develop and test the reliability of the SHUC to characterize RHI in soccer. Two trained reviewers used the SHUC to quantify ball-to-head impacts and characterize non-ball-to-head impacts in 38 male and female collegiate soccer matches. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cohen's Kappa were used to assess interrater reliability. Independent t-tests and Chi-square analyses were used to examine sex differences. The interrater reliability for quantifying ball-to-head impacts was excellent (ICC=0.97); however, only half of the non-ball-to-head impact characteristics had acceptable interrater reliability with two reviewers. Number of ball-to-head-impacts and RHI characteristics were consistent between males and females (p>0.05). Our results suggest that the SHUC is an applicable standardized method to quantify and characterize RHI from video footage of soccer matches; however, accurately characterizing some aspects of RHI is a challenging task that may be supplemented by head impact sensor data.

 

 

#16 Predicting ratings of perceived exertion in youth soccer using decision tree models

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):245-252. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.103723. Epub 2021 Apr 9.

Authors: Jakub Marynowicz, Mateusz Lango, Damian Horna, Karol Kikut, Marcin Andrzejewski

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919883/pdf/JBS-39-103723.pdf

Summary: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of white-box decision tree models (DTM) for predicting the rating of perceived exertion (RPE). The second aim was to examine the relationship between RPE and external measures of intensity in youth soccer training at the group and individual level. Training load data from 18 youth soccer players were collected during an in-season competition period. A total of 804 training observations were undertaken, with a total of 43 ± 17 sessions per player (range 12-76). External measures of intensity were determined using a 10 Hz GPS and included total distance (TD, m/min), high-speed running distance (HSR, m/min), PlayerLoad (PL, n/min), impacts (n/min), distance in acceleration/deceleration (TD ACC/TD DEC, m/min) and the number of accelerations/decelerations (ACC/DEC, n/min). Data were analysed with decision tree models. Global and individualized models were constructed. Aggregated importance revealed HSR as the strongest predictor of RPE with relative importance of 0.61. HSR was the most important factor in predicting RPE for half of the players. The prediction error (root mean square error [RMSE] 0.755 ± 0.014) for the individualized models was lower compared to the population model (RMSE 1.621 ± 0.001). The findings demonstrate that individual models should be used for the assessment of players' response to external load. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that DTM provide straightforward interpretation, with the possibility of visualization. This method can be used to prescribe daily training loads on the basis of predicted, desired player responses (exertion).

 

 

#17 Reliability and validity of a modified Illinois change-of-direction test with ball dribbling speed in young soccer players

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):295-306. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.104917. Epub 2021 Apr 9.

Authors: Issam Makhlouf, Amel Tayech, Mohamed Arbi Mejri, Monoem Haddad, David G Behm, Urs Granacher, Anis Chaouachi

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919884/pdf/JBS-39-104917.pdf

Summary: The purpose of this study was to assess test-retest reliability, discriminative and criterion-related validity of the modified Illinois change-of-direction (CoD) test with ball dribbling-speed (ICODT-BALL) in young soccer players of different biological maturity and playing levels. Sixty-five young male soccer players (11.4 ± 1.2 years) participated in this study. The participants were classified according to their biological maturity (pre- and circumpeak height velocity [PHV]) and playing-level (elite and amateur players). During the test-retest time period of two weeks, the following tests were performed during week one and as retest during week two: ICODT-BALL, ICODT, 4 × 9-m shuttle-run, countermovement-jump, triple-hop-test, maximum-voluntary isometric-contraction of back-extensors, Stork, Y-Balance, 10 and 30-m sprints. The ICODT-BALL showed excellent relative (r = 0.995, p < 0.001; ICC = 0.993) and absolute (SEM < 5%; SEM < SWCs(0.2, 0.6, 1.2)) reliability. The circum-PHV (22.8 ± 1.7-s) and elite (22.5 ± 0.9-s) players showed better ICODT-BALL performance than their pre-PHV (24.2 ± 2.5-s) and amateur (25.1 ± 2.8-s) counterparts (p = 0.028 and p < 0.001, respectively). The ICODT-BALL showed "very good" (AUC = 0.81) discriminant validity when comparing the elite and amateur players, and "moderate" (AUC = 0.67) discriminant validity when compared to pre-PHV and circum-PHV boys. ICODT-BALL demonstrated "large" positive associations with the ICODT (r = 0.65; 41.8% shared-variance) and sprint tests (r ≥ 0.52; 27.3 to 34.8% shared-variance). In addition, results showed "moderate" negative associations between ICODT-BALL and strength, and power measures, as well as a "small" negative relationship with balance tests. In conclusion, the ICODT-BALL is a valid and reliable test to evaluate the ability to quickly change directions while ball dribbling in young soccer players. Therefore, practitioners can use the ICODT-BALL as a tool for talent identification.

 

 

#18 Effect of training day, match, and length of the microcycle on workload periodization in professional soccer players: a full-season study

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):397-406. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.106148. Epub 2021 Jun 1.

Authors: José M Oliva-Lozano, Carlos D Gómez-Carmona, Víctor Fortes, José Pino-Ortega

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919886/pdf/JBS-39-106148.pdf

Summary: The aims of this study were to: (a) describe and compare the volume and intensity from the workload of professional soccer players between training and MD, and (b) analyse the effect that the length of the microcycle had on the workload. A cohort study was designed for a full season in La Liga 123. Wearable tracking systems collected the distance covered in meters (m), total number of high-intensity accelerations (ACCHIGH) and decelerations (DECHIGH), total number of high-speed running actions (HSRA), high-speed running distance (HSRD), high metabolic load distance (HMLD), and player load (PL) from training days (MD+1, MD-4, MD-3, MD-2, and MD-1) and MD. Significant differences were found between training and MD workload, MD workload being the most demanding for all intensity and volume variables (F = 36.35-753.94; p < 0.01; wp 2 = 0.21-0.85). The greatest training intensity and volume were found on MD-4 and MD-3 (p < 0.05). In addition, a novel finding was that the length of the microcycle had a significant effect on the workload both in volume and intensity (F = 4.84-14.19; p < 0.01; wp 2 = 0.03-0.09), except for relative ACCHIGH, DECHIGH, and HMLD. Although MD-4 and MD-3 were the most suitable days for loading the players, the results showed that MD elicited a unique stimulus in terms of volume and intensity. Consequently, coaches need to include specific training drills to adapt the players for the competitive demands. Finally, special focus should be placed on MD from short and regular microcycles (5-day, 6-day, or 7-day microcycles) since declines in physical performance were observed in comparison with long microcycles (8-day or 9-day microcycles).

 

 

#19 Speed and power-related gene polymorphisms associated with playing position in elite soccer players

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):355-366. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.105333. Epub 2021 Apr 21.

Authors: Miroslav Petr, Dan Thiel, Kvapilová Kateřina, Petr Brož, Tomáš Malý, František Zahálka, Pavlína Vostatková, Michal Wilk, Jakub Chycki, Petr Stastny

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919892/pdf/JBS-39-105333.pdf

Summary: Heritability studies on sport-related traits accepted that endurance, speed, power, and strength abilities include an active genetic predisposition to elite soccer participation. This study evaluates the influence of selected genetic variants on performance in speed, power, and strength laboratory tests on a group of elite soccer players, including their playing position. A ninety-nine male elite soccer players were compared to controls (n = 107) and tested for quadriceps and hamstrings isokinetic strength at speed 60°/s, 180°/s, and 300°/s, jump performance, and genotypes of ACTN3 (R577X, rs1815739), ACE (I/D, rs1799752), NOS3 (Glu298Asp, rs1799983), AMPD1 (34C/T, rs17602729), UCP2 (Ala55Val, rs660339), BDKRB2 (+9/-9, rs5810761) and IL1RN (VNTR 86-bp). The ACTN3 XX homozygotes in defenders had lower quadriceps and hamstring isokinetic strength in all tested speeds than ACTN3 RX and RR genotypes (p < 0.05). The ACTN3 RR homozygotes in defenders had higher quadriceps strength in all tested velocities than the RX heterozygotes (p < 0.05). We also found other associations between playing-position in soccer and increased strength of lower limbs for AMPD1 CC and NOS3 Glu/Glu genotypes, and IL1RN*2 allele carriers. Total genetic score regression explained 26% of the variance in jump performance and isokinetic strength. The ACTN3 R allele, NOS3 Glu/Glu genotypes, and IL1RN*2 allele pre-disposed the attackers and defenders playing position in elite soccer, where those positions have higher strength and power measures than midfielders. Midfielders have lower strength and power conditions than other playing positions without relation to strength and power genes.

 

 

#20 Training, psychometric status, biological markers and neuromuscular fatigue in soccer

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):319-327. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.104065. Epub 2021 Apr 9.

Authors: Okba Selmi, Ibrahim Ouergui, Danielle E Levitt, Hamza Marzouki, Beat Knechtle, Pantelis T Nikolaidis, Anissa Bouassida

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919895/pdf/JBS-39-104065.pdf

Summary: The study examined the relationship between psychometric status, neuromuscular, and biochemical markers of fatigue in response to an intensified training (IT) period in soccer. Fifteen professional soccer players volunteered to participate in the study (mean ± SD: age: 25 ± 1 years; body height: 179 ± 7 cm, body mass: 73.7 ± 16.2 kg, experience: 13.2 ± 3 years). Training load, monotony, strain, Hooper index and total quality recovery (TQR) were determined for each training session during a 2-week of IT. Counter-movement jump (CMJ) and biochemical responses [testosterone, cortisol, testosterone-to-cortisol ratio (T/C ratio), creatine kinase, and C-reactive protein] were collected before and after IT. Results showed that IT induced significant increases in cortisol, creatine kinase and C-reactive protein and significant decreases in T/C ratio and CMJ performance from before to after IT (p < 0.01, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively). However, testosterone did not differ from before to after IT (p > 0.05). Training loads were positively correlated with Hooper index (p < 0.05) and negatively correlated with total quality recovery (p < 0.05). Hooper index was positively correlated with cortisol (p < 0.05), T/C ratio (p < 0.01), and creatine kinase (p < 0.01), and negatively correlated with CMJ (p < 0.05). Furthermore, TQR was negatively correlated with T/C ratio (p < 0.01), creatine kinase (p < 0.001), and C-reactive protein (p < 0.05), and positively correlated with CMJ (p < 0.01). Neuromuscular fatigue, muscle damage, and change in the anabolic/catabolic state induced by the IT were related to well-being and perceived recovery state among professional soccer players.

 

 

#21 Resisted sprint training with partner towing improves explosive force and sprint performance in young soccer players - a pilot study

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):379-387. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.103574. Epub 2021 Apr 21.

Authors: Anis Chaalali, Khalil Bouriel, Mehdi Rouissi, Moktar Chtara, Bessem Mkaouer, John Cronin, Anis Chaouachi, Karim Chamari

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919874/pdf/JBS-39-103574.pdf

Summary: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of non-resisted (NRS) and partner-towing resisted (RS) sprint training on legs explosive force, sprint performance and sprint kinematic parameters. Sixteen young elite soccer players (age 16.6 ± 0.2 years, height 175.6 ± 5.7 cm, and body mass 67.6 ± 8.2 kg) were randomly allocated to two training groups: resisted sprint RS (n = 7) and non-resisted sprint NRS (n = 9). The RS group followed a six-week sprint training programme consisting of two "sprint training sessions" per week in addition to their usual soccer training. The NRS group followed a similar sprint training programme, replicating the distances of sprints but without any added resistance. All players were assessed before and after training: vertical and horizontal jumping (countermovement jump (CMJ), squat jump (SJ), and 5-jump test (5JT)), 30 m sprint performance (5, 10, and 20 m split times), and running kinematics (stride length and frequency). In the RS group significant (p < 0.05) changes were: decreased sprint time for 0-5 m, 0-10 m and 0-30 m (-6.31, -5.73 and -2.00%; effect size (ES) = 0.70, 1.00 and 0.41, respectively); higher peak jumping height (4.23% and 3.59%; ES = 0.35 and 0.37, for SJ and CMJ respectively); and 5JT (3.10%; ES = 0.44); and increased stride frequency (3.96%; ES = 0.76). In the NRS group, significant (p < 0.05) changes were: decreased sprint time at 0-30 m (-1.34%, ES = 0.33) and increased stride length (1.21%; ES = 0.17). RS training (partner towing) for six weeks in young soccer players showed more effective performances in sprint, stride frequency and lower-limb explosive force, while NRS training improved sprint performance at 0-30 m and stride length. Consequently, coaches and physical trainers should consider including RS training as part of their sprint training to ensure optimal sprint performance.

 

 

#22 Biological maturation influences selection process in youth elite soccer players

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):435-441. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.106152. Epub 2021 Jun 1.

Authors: Marcelo Massa, Alexandre Moreira, Renato A Costa, Marcelo R Lima, Carlos R Thiengo, Walter Q Marquez, Aaron J Coutts, Marcelo S Aoki

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919873/pdf/JBS-39-106152.pdf

Summary: This study examined the influence of birth date, salivary testosterone [sT] concentration, sexual maturity status, and general strength on the selection process of an elite Brazilian soccer club during a 12-month period, which was a 2nd phase of a 24-month selection process. The stature, body mass, sT, sexual maturity status [Tanner scale], and hand grip strength were assessed for 143 players during 2 weeks. From these 143 players, 100 players were dismissed [DIS] and 43 players were selected to integrate the club's under-14 squad. Following 1-year training period, the under-14 team was assembled with 9 players designated as starters [STA], and then, comparisons were conducted taking into account a group of non-starters (selected; SEL = 34 players) and STA (n = 09). The DIS, SEL, STA players, and reference population, were compared for birth distribution. A greater proportion of players was born in the first trimester in the STA [75.0%], SEL [57.1%] and DIS [50.0%] groups compared to the reference population [25.8%]. One-way ANOVA showed a higher sT for STA group [516.0 ± 129.9 pmol·L-1], compared to SEL [415.5 ± 117.9 pmol·L-1] and DIS groups [390.9 ± 84.9 pmol·L-1; p = 0.003), and Kruskall-Wallis test showed a higher gonadal development for STA compared to DIS [p = 0.001]. The current findings suggest a strong influence of birth date and biological maturation on young soccer players selection process. Soccer coaches should consider these influences when making decisions about player selection of elite youth players.

 

 

#23 Effects of melatonin ingestion on physical performance and biochemical responses following exhaustive running exercise in soccer players

Reference: Biol Sport. 2022 Mar;39(2):473-479. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2022.106385. Epub 2021 Jul 2.

Authors: Mohamed Amine Farjallah, Ahmed Graja, Lobna Ben Mahmoud, Kais Ghattassi, Mariem Boudaya, Tarak Driss, Kamel Jamoussi, Zouheir Sahnoun, Nizar Souissi, Omar Hammouda

Download link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8919877/pdf/JBS-39-106385.pdf

Summary: Antioxidant supplementation has become a common practice among athletes to boost sport achievement. Likewise, melatonin (MEL) has been ingested as an ergogenic aid to improve physical performance. To date, no study has checked whether the multiple beneficial effects of MEL have an outcome during a maximum running exercise until exhaustion. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of MEL ingestion on physical performance and biochemical responses (i.e., oxidative stress) during exhaustive exercise. In a double blind randomized study, thirteen professional soccer players [age: 17.5 ± 0.8 years, body mass: 70.3 ± 3.9 kg, body height: 1.80 ± 0.08 m; maximal aerobic speed (MAS): 16.85 ± 0.63 km/h; mean ± standard deviation], members of a first league squad, performed a running exercise until exhaustion at 100% of MAS, after either MEL or placebo ingestion. Physical performance was assessed, and blood samples were obtained at rest and following the exercise. Compared to placebo, MEL intake prevented the increase in oxidative stress markers (i.e., malondialdehyde), alleviated the alteration of antioxidant status (i.e., glutathione peroxidase, uric acid and total bilirubin) and decreased post-exercise biomarkers of muscle damage (i.e., creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase) (p < 0.05). However, physical performance was not affected by MEL ingestion (p > 0.05). In conclusion, acute MEL intake before a maximal running exercise protected athletes from oxidative stress and cellular damage but without an effect on physical performance.