Normative Performance Test Metrics in Professional Female Club Soccer
A summary of the research:
This study establishes normative performance metrics for professional women’s soccer players, focusing on key lower-body strength and power tests. Researchers evaluated 28 players from an NWSL club using three common performance assessments: the Counter-Movement Jump (CMJ), Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull (IMTP), and Nordic Hamstring Curl (NHC). The results showed that professional female players had an average jump height of 28.9 cm, peak vertical force of 1869 N in the IMTP, and notable limb asymmetries in hamstring strength. The study highlights that these benchmarks provide valuable reference points for assessing player fitness, rehabilitation progress, and injury risk.
One of the key findings was the presence of significant limb asymmetry in strength metrics, with over 50% of players demonstrating an imbalance of more than 10%. This could be linked to previous injuries or insufficient access to high-performance training and rehabilitation, an issue often noted in women’s sports. The study emphasizes the need for individualized training and monitoring to help reduce asymmetries and prevent injuries, providing sports scientists, coaches, and medical staff with critical data to optimize player performance and health.
Key Takeaways:
Monitor and Address Limb Asymmetry – Over half of the players showed significant strength imbalances between their left and right legs. Regular screening and individualized strength programs can help correct these asymmetries and reduce injury risk.
Use Performance Metrics to Guide Training – Baseline tests such as CMJ, IMTP, and NHC provide critical insights into player strength and power. Clubs should use these data points to tailor training programs and ensure athletes maintain optimal performance levels.
Invest in Injury Prevention Programs – Given the high proportion of lower-body injuries in women’s soccer, teams should incorporate eccentric hamstring strengthening and force profiling into their conditioning routines to reduce injury risk and improve player longevity.
Authors: Andy Seraphin, Christi Edson, Cory Price, Barrett Jones, & Amanda Jagielo
You can read read the entire article here.
