The effect of skill training on visual reaction time, dynamic balance, explosive force and speed in 9-10 year old soccer players

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 8-week skill development training on reaction time, dynamic balance, explosive strength and speed in soccer. For this purpose, male athletes aged 9-10 years (9,5±0,5 years) with at least 1 year of football training were randomly divided into 2 equal groups as study (n: 40) and control (n: 40) groups. In both groups, pre-test and post-tests determining reaction time, dynamic balance, explosive strength and speed were performed at the same time. Selective visual reaction for reaction time determination, dynamic balance for balance, vertical jump for explosive strength and 30 m sprint run for speed tests were performed. Reaction time test was determined with 8-spark adjustable octopus arm visual reaction device, dynamic balance measurement, explosive force test with adjustable spring system balance device, vertical jump on a jumping mat by digital measurement, and 30 m sprint measurement was determined using photocell devices. During the study period, while both groups continued their football club training, the study group also received skill development training for 8 weeks. This training program was applied 2 days a week for 1 hour for 8 weeks. As a result of the study, it was determined that the skill training applied for 8 weeks significantly improved the speed values in favor of the study group from pretest to posttest (p<0.05). Another result of the study was that there was no significant difference in other tested characteristics (reaction time, dynamic balance and explosive power) p>0,05). Due to the significant difference in the speed variable between the study and control groups, it is recommended that coaches should give importance to speed training especially in 9-10 years old soccer players.