Core Exercises and Their Effects on Sprint, Jump, Agility, and Balance in Amateur Soccer Players

The Effects of Core Exercises on Change of Direction, Vertical Jump, Sprint, and Postural Sway: An Experimental Study

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 4-week core exercise program on sprint, vertical jump, agility, and postural sway performance in amateur male soccer players aged 18-23. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (core training) or a control group (regular training). Physical performance tests were conducted before and after the training program. The results are expected to help coaches and sports scientists better understand the performance benefits of core training.

This randomized controlled study investigated the effects of a 4-week core exercise program on sprint, vertical jump, agility, and postural sway performance in amateur male soccer players aged 18 to 23. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to either a core training group (n=15) or a control group (n=15). The core training group performed additional core stability exercises three times per week, while the control group continued their regular training routine. All participants completed physical performance tests, including 10- and 20-meter sprint, change of direction test, countermovement jump (CMJ), and postural sway assessment using a force platform. Pre- and post-test comparisons were conducted to evaluate the intervention's effectiveness. Ethical approval was obtained from the Gazi University Ethics Committee (Approval No: 2024-1685). The study was designed to help coaches and sport scientists understand how core training may improve athletic performance parameters in amateur football players.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male amateur soccer players aged 18 to 23 years
• Actively participating in regular soccer training (minimum 3 sessions/week)
• No musculoskeletal injuries within the last 6 months
• Provided informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of lower extremity surgery
• Any neurological or vestibular disorders
• Participation in core training within the past 3 months
• Use of medication that may affect balance or neuromuscular performance