Analysis of physical variables as an indicator of performance in a sample of Colombian women's soccer players: influence of being a starter and a non-starter
A summary of the research:
The article "Analysis of Physical Variables as an Indicator of Performance in a Sample of Colombian Women's Soccer Players: Influence of Being a Starter and a Non-Starter" investigates how physical performance differs between starting and non-starting players in a youth women’s soccer team in Colombia. The study examined several physical variables, including squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), hamstring strength, change of direction (COD), and sprint speed over 5, 10, and 15 meters. The researchers found that starters generally performed better in strength and agility-related tests, such as the SJ and CMJ, while non-starters demonstrated slightly better sprint speeds. Interestingly, while there were observed differences between starters and non-starters, these differences were not statistically significant at the 5% level, with leg asymmetry being the only variable that approached significance at the 10% level.
The findings suggest that although starters tend to show higher performance in certain strength and agility metrics, the overall physical capacities of starting and non-starting players are relatively similar. This may reflect the high physical standards required of all players, regardless of their starting status. The study emphasizes the importance of considering multiple factors, beyond physical variables, in determining player performance and the potential need for further research to explore other influences, such as tactical and psychological elements.
Key Takeaways:
Starters show better strength and agility: Starting players had higher performances in tests like the squat jump and countermovement jump compared to non-starters.
Non-starters excel in sprinting: Non-starters demonstrated slightly faster times in short-distance sprint tests (5, 10, and 15 meters).
No significant differences: Despite observed trends, no physical variables, except for leg asymmetry at 10%, showed statistically significant differences between starters and non-starters
Authors: Boyri Becerra-Patiño, Juan David Paucar-Uribe, Carlos Felipe Martínez-Benitez, Carlos Felipe, Juan Diego Ávila-Martínez, Juan Diego, Juan Carlos Sarria-Lozano,
You can read the whole article here.
