An Investigation of the Relationship Between Horizontal and Vertical Jumping vs Speed Performance in U-12 Soccer Players

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between horizontal and vertical jumps and speed performance in U-12 soccer players. Twenty-six amateur soccer players from a soccer club participated in the study. Speed tests (0-5m/0-10m/0-20m and 0-30m), horizontal jump tests, and vertical jump tests were applied. In the literature review, studies examining the relationship between speed performance with vertical and horizontal jump performance in young soccer players were observed, but, to our knowledge, no study has been found that evaluates horizontal jump as a standing long jump with hands on hips in young soccer players. The relationship between variables was measured by Spearman correlation, with a significance level of α set at 0.05.The mean values of the measured parameters of the U-12 soccer players who participated in the study were; age 10.88 ± 0.81 years, height 142.92 ± 4.65 cm, body weight 35 ± 3.44 kg, 5m speed time 2.36 ± 0.13 sec, 10m speed time 3.45 ± 0.16 sec, 20m speed time 5.40 ± 0.35 sec, 30m speed time 7.19 ± 0.45 sec, horizontal jump (SLJHH) value 140.42 ± 12.85 cm, horizontal jump (SLJHF) value 163.84 ± 13.79 cm, vertical jump (VJ) value 26.57 ± 4.33 cm. The study findings indicated significant relationships between 5m and SLJHF/VJ, 10m and SLJHF/SLJHW, and 20m and 30m with SLJHF/SLJHH/VJ (p < 0.05), while no significant relationship between 5m and SLJHF, and 10m and VJ (p > 0.05). In conclusion, a negative relationship was found between horizontal and vertical jump and speed performance in U-12 soccer players. Therefore, when evaluating speed performance in this age group, horizontal and vertical jump performance should also be taken into consideration. Developing lower extremity strength should be prioritized in training programs tailored to this age group, aiming to improve speed performance.