Assessing the impact of body composition and physical fitness parameters on performance prediction in youth soccer players
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v73.117113Keywords:
Body composition, 10m sprint, youth soccer players, performance, VO₂ maxAbstract
Introduction: In youth soccer, athletic performance depends on biological maturation, body composition, and physical fitness. Although age and maturation influence performance, it is necessary to further explore how these factors interact.
Objective: To examine the evolution of body composition and fitness indicators in athletes enrolled in a professional soccer academy and to study the relation between these variables and performance outcomes.
Methodology: 131 male players aged 10 to 15 years were stratified into three age groups (U11, U13, U15) and further classified by team level (A, B, C). Anthropometric assessments, along with tests measuring countermovement jump (CMJ), 10-m sprint, change of direction (505 test), and aerobic capacity (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1), were conducted. Data analysis involved ANOVA, post-hoc comparisons, adjusted ANCOVA controlling for age, and correlation and regression analyses to identify relationships and predictors of performance.
Results: U15 athletes exhibited significantly lower body fat percentages and superior performance in explosive and aerobic tests compared to younger cohorts, with large effect sizes. U11 players demonstrated faster sprint times and higher levels of body fat. Post-hoc analyses confirmed these performance disparities, and ANCOVA results showed that these differences remained significant after adjusting for chronological age. Moderate correlations between CMJ and sprint times suggested that greater jumping ability was associated with faster sprints. In the U13 group, CMJ negatively correlated with VO₂ max, indicating a potential trade-off. Regression analyses identified CMJ as a key predictor, accounting for approximately 44-47% of the variance in sprint performance.
Discussion: These findings underscore the intricate relationship between maturation, body composition, and fitness in youth soccer players. The development of power, agility, and aerobic capacity appears to progress with age, although individual variability linked to maturation status persists. Conclusion: Recognizing such differences is critical for refining talent identification processes and tailoring training interventions. Future longitudinal studies are needed to further elucidate developmental trajectories and optimize athlete development pathways.
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