The Effects of 6-Week Core Training on Selected Biomotor Abilities in Soccer Players

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effects of 6-week core training on certain biomotor abilities for footballers in the pubertal period. Accordingly, 30 male footballers who attend football courses regularly participated in the study. Footballers were divided into two groups; 15 of them were assigned to the Core Training Group (CTG) (age: 9.73 years; height: 139 cm; and body weight: 33.66 kg.) while 15 of them were assigned to the Conventional Training Group (CONTG) (age: 10.06 years; height: 139 cm; and body weight: 35.32 kg). While CONTG was applying the traditional training protocol, CTG additionally applied core strength exercises (two days a week for 10-15 min.). The selected biomotor tests were applied to both groups before and after the 6-week application. Between pre- and post-test values in the CTG, a statistically significant difference was found in flamingo balance, core stabilization balance, hand grip strength, 30 sec. abdominal crunch and 30 m sprint tests (p<0.05). In the CONTG, a statistically significant difference was found in 30-second push-up test values between pre- and post-tests (p<0.05). Comparing the pre-tests between groups, a statistically significant difference was found in flamingo balance and vertical jump tests (p<0.05). Also, comparing the post-tests, a statistically significant difference was found in core stabilization balance and vertical jump tests (p<0.05). As a result of this study, it was found that core training to be performed in addition to the traditional football training positively contributed to basic motor development.