The influence of soccer-specific fatigue on functional stability

M. Greig, C. Walker-Johnson

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle (journal)peer-review

36 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Objective To quantify the influence of soccer-specific fatigue on functional stability. Participants and design Ten male semi-professional soccer players completed a 90 min treadmill protocol replicating the activity profile of match-play with a passive 15 min half-time interval. Main outcome measures At 15 min intervals players completed a 30 s single-legged balance task on an unstable platform. Balance performance was quantified as a stability index and the mean deflection of the platform. Results There was no significant (P>0.05) main effect for exercise duration in the stability index, suggesting that balance performance was maintained throughout the simulated match. However, the mean deflection of the platform was significantly (P<0.05) shifted toward anterior displacement during the last 15 min of each half. Conclusion A change in balance strategy was evident during the latter stages of match-play, which may increase injury risk. It is recommended that soccer players perform proprioception training in the rested and exercised state to further develop neuromuscular control.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)185-190
JournalPhysical Therapy in Sport
Volume8
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2007

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The influence of soccer-specific fatigue on functional stability'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this