The Effect of Proprioceptive Training on Technical Soccer Skills in Youth Professional Soccer
MEDICINA-LITHUANIA, vol.61, no.2, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 61 Issue: 2
- Publication Date: 2025
- Doi Number: 10.3390/medicina61020252
- Journal Name: MEDICINA-LITHUANIA
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Directory of Open Access Journals
- Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
- Gazi University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study analyzes the effects of proprioceptive training on the physical fitness and soccer-specific technical skills of young professional soccer players. Materials and Methods: Twenty-eight male professional soccer players from the T & uuml;rkiye Football Federation's Third League, aged 20.46 +/- 1.60 years (average), participated voluntarily. Body composition was assessed with the Inbody270 bioelectrical impedance analyzer, while agility and maximal VO2 cardiorespiratory fitness were measured using the ChronoJump smartspeed mat. Soccer-specific technical skill assessments were also conducted. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22, with paired sample t-tests for comparisons, Cohen's d test for effect size, and repeated measures two-way ANOVA for interaction effects (group x time). Eta squared (eta(2)) values were reported for effect size. A 95% confidence level and p = 0.05 were used. Results: Proprioceptive training significantly improved body fat percentage (p < 0.05; eta(2) = 0.006) and soccer-specific technical skills, including free juggling (p < 0.05; eta(2) = 0.302), alternating foot juggling (p < 0.05; eta(2) = 0.271), right foot juggling (p < 0.05; eta(2) = 0.250), and shooting performance (p < 0.05; eta(2) = 0.513). Conclusions: A 12-week proprioceptive training program, when incorporated into soccer practice, significantly enhances soccer-specific technical skills and reduces body fat percentage.