ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Factors affecting Y-Balance Test in elite adolescent
soccer players
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1
Gyeongsangnam-do Sports Council, Sports Science Center,
Changwon-si, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
2
Kaya University, Department of Physical Therapy, Gimhaesi, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
Submission date: 2024-10-23
Final revision date: 2025-01-14
Acceptance date: 2025-01-14
Publication date: 2025-06-30
Corresponding author
Ki-Jun Park
Department of Physical Therapy, Kaya University, Korea (South)
TRENDS in Sport Sciences 2025;32(2)
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Introduction:
The ability of soccer players to maintain dynamic
balance is crucial for their performance in physical tasks
and matches. Therefore, it is essential to examine the factors
influencing the dynamic balance of these players.
Aim of the study:
This study aimed to analyze the factors affecting the Y-Balance
Test scores of elite adolescent soccer players, including the
dominant and non-dominant leg, leg length, and muscle
strength
Material and methods:
In 2024, a study was carried
out on 40 elite male adolescent soccer players who competed
at an advanced level and trained at a professional center. The
study involved taking measurements for the Y-Balance Test –
leg length measurements, and knee flexor and extensor muscle
measurements. Statistical analyses, including an independent
t-test and Pearson correlation analysis, were performed to
examine the relationship between the Y-Balance Test, leg length,
and knee strength.
Results:
The study found that there is no
significant difference in the Y-Balance Test results between the
dominant and non-dominant legs of elite adolescent soccer
players. Additionally, the Y-Balance Test results for dominant
and non-dominant sides were not affected by leg length.
However, the flexors and extensors of the knee showed a positive
correlation with the Y-Balance Test.
Conclusions:
The Y-Balance
Test results of elite adolescent soccer players show a connection
between their dominant and non-dominant legs. Additionally,
the test score seems to be influenced by knee strength to some
extent. Implementing a systematic approach to managing knee
strength and conducting the Y-Balance Test to enhance players
performance and lower the risk of injury.