EFFECTS OF VIRTUAL REALITY TRAINING ON ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE IN PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL PLAYERS

ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE IN VIRTUAL REALITY: THE USE OF VIRTUAL REALITY FOR TRAINING IN PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL PLAYERS

This study aimed to investigate the effects of virtual reality (VR)-assisted training compared with traditional training and routine practice on physical and neurophysiological performance in young professional football players. Thirty-nine male football players aged 18-19 were randomly assigned to VR training, traditional training, and control groups. The intervention lasted for several weeks and included structured training sessions integrated into regular team practice.

Physical performance was assessed using balance, 30-meter sprint, and muscle strength tests, while neurophysiological outcomes were evaluated using electroencephalography (EEG). Measurements were conducted before and after the intervention period. The VR group performed immersive exercise-based training using VR applications designed to improve coordination, strength, endurance, and cognitive-motor interaction, while the traditional group performed the same exercises without VR support.

The study hypothesized that VR-assisted training would lead to greater improvements in both physical performance and brain activity compared to traditional and control conditions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• - Male professional football players participating in licensed competitions within a professional club youth academy
• Age between 18 and 19 years
• 5-8 years of active football playing experience
• No chronic pain or musculoskeletal injury affecting performance
• Willingness to participate and signed informed consent form
• Ability to attend both virtual reality and training sessions regularly
• Training frequency of approximately 3 sessions per week
• Use of supplements only for general health purposes without performance enhancement effects

Exclusion Criteria:

• - Any injury that may impair performance or interaction with virtual reality training
• Neurological or psychological disorders affecting VR interaction
• Previous experience with VR-based training programs
• History of epilepsy or seizure disorders
• History of frequent headaches or migraines
• Balance disorders or vestibular dysfunction
• Visual impairments such as depth perception problems or color blindness
• Non-compliance with study protocol or missing informed consent