Neuromuscular and athletic performance following core strength training in elite youth soccer: Role of instability

Abstract

Cross-sectional studies revealed that inclusion of unstable elements in core-strengthening exercises produced increases in trunk muscle activity and thus potential extra stimuli to induce more pronounced performance enhancements in youth athletes. Thus, the purpose of the study was to investigate changes in neuromuscular and athletic performance following core strength training performed on unstable (CSTU) compared with stable surfaces (CSTS) in youth soccer players. Thirty-nine male elite soccer players (age: 17 ± 1 years) were assigned to two groups performing a progressive core strength-training program for 9 weeks (2-3 times/week) in addition to regular in-season soccer training. CSTS group conducted core exercises on stable (i.e., floor, bench) and CSTU group on unstable (e.g., Thera-Band® Stability Trainer, Togu© Swiss ball) surfaces. Measurements included tests for assessing trunk muscle strength/activation, countermovement jump height, sprint time, agility time, and kicking performance. Statistical analysis revealed significant main effects of test (pre vs post) for trunk extensor strength (5%, P < 0.05, d = 0.86), 10-20-m sprint time (3%, P < 0.05, d = 2.56), and kicking performance (1%, P < 0.01, d = 1.28). No significant Group × test interactions were observed for any variable. In conclusion, trunk muscle strength, sprint, and kicking performance improved following CSTU and CSTS when conducted in combination with regular soccer training.

Does Core Stability Training Affect Fundamental Movement Skills in Low Proficiency Children? Evaluation of Performance Process

“…For example, a 9-week core training programmed by Prieske et al (2016) indicated that there were significant improvements in sprint time and kicking performance (25). Our results are also consistent with Stray-Pedersen et al Tse, McManus, and Masters (2005) examined the effect of 8-week core endurance training program on college age rowers and found no improvement in the 40-m sprint, overhead medicine-ball throw or2000-m maximum rowing test.…”

Effect of abdominal bracing training on strength and power of trunk and lower limb muscles

“…Many studies have already examined the effects of core stabilization training on muscle strength, jump height, and various athletic performances in trained individuals (e.g., Prieske et al 2016a). Among these findings, some studies have reported that, as shown in the current study, the effects of core stabilization training on the strength capability of trunk or limb muscles vary with muscles examined even within the same body segments (Hoshikawa et al 2013;Prieske et al 2016b;Stanforth et al 1998). For example, Hoshikawa et al (2013) observed a significant gain in hip extension torque, but not in hip flexion torque.…”

“…For example, Hoshikawa et al (2013) observed a significant gain in hip extension torque, but not in hip flexion torque. Furthermore, Prieske et al (2016b) and Stanforth et al (1998) observed a strength improvement in trunk extension, but not in trunk flexion. In addition, it is known that core stabilization training has produced significant gains in muscle strength, assessed by maximum load which can be lifted in a given repetition, during multi-joint moments (right).…”

Associations of maximal voluntary isometric hip extension torque with muscle size of hamstring and gluteus maximus and intra-abdominal pressure

“…Core stabilization exercise and training have recently received remarkable attention and been reported to improve athletic performance such as sprint running and jump (Hoshikawa et al 2013;Jamison et al 2012;Prieske et al 2016). Although it is considered that a strong and stable trunk is beneficial for achieving high sport performances by providing a foundation for greater force production by limbs (Kibler et al 2006;Willardson 2007), the precise mechanism for the improvement in athletic performance remains unclear.…”