Information about project titled 'Examination of Physical Characteristics and Positional Differences in Professional Soccer Players in Qatar'
Examination of Physical Characteristics and Positional Differences in Professional Soccer Players in Qatar
| Details about the project - category | Details about the project - value |
|---|---|
| Project status: | Published |
| Project manager: | Eirik Halvorsen Wik |
| Coworker(s): | Sean Mc Auliffe, Paul Read |
Description
Background: Physical characteristics in professional soccer differ between competition levels and playing positions, and normative data aid practitioners in profiling their players to optimize performance and reduce injury risk.
Aims: To provide position-specific normative values for professional soccer players competing the Qatar Stars League.
Methods: One hundred and ninety-five players completed a musculoskeletal assessment as part of an annual periodic health examination. Tests included measures of range of motion, bilateral and unilateral jump performance, and quadriceps, hamstring, hip and groin strength.
Results: Defenders were the strongest relative to body mass, and these differences were significant versus goalkeepers and strikers. No meaningful differences were apparent for jumping or range or motion tests. Compared to mean values from other professional leagues, soccer players in Qatar appear to be shorter, lighter and display inferior strength and jump capacities.
Conclusions: These data can be used to tailor training and rehabilitation programs to the specifics of the league and position in which the athletes compete.