Functional Movement, Balance, and Strength in Professional and Amateur Soccer Players

Comparison of Functional Movement, Dynamic Balance, and Lower Extremity Muscle Strength Between Professional and Amateur Soccer Players

This observational comparative study aims to evaluate differences in functional movement quality, dynamic balance, lower extremity muscle strength, and jumping performance between professional and amateur male soccer players. A total of 144 licensed soccer players (72 professional and 72 amateur) will undergo standardized assessments, including the Functional Movement Screen (FMS), Y-Balance Test (YBT), countermovement jump (CMJ), vertical jump (VJ), one-repetition maximum (1RM) strength tests, and eccentric hamstring strength assessment using the NordBord system. The findings are expected to improve understanding of how competitive level influences physical performance characteristics and may contribute to the development of evidence-based training, injury prevention, and athlete development strategies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male licensed soccer players.
• Professional or amateur soccer players actively competing during the study period.
• Regular participation in team training (4-5 sessions per week) and official competitions.
• Ability to complete all physical performance assessments.
• Provided written informed consent before participation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current musculoskeletal injury or pain affecting performance.
• History of lower-extremity injury preventing full participation in testing.
• Neurological, cardiovascular, or other medical conditions limiting physical performance.
• Inability or unwillingness to complete all assessment procedures.
• Withdrawal of informed consent.