Effects of hip flexor exercises applied to football players on some physical and physiological parameters

This study aims to examine the effects of hip flexor exercises, integrated into the training programs of young football players, on specific performance parameters within groups classified according to strength, endurance, and speed. Motor abilities such as endurance, strength, and speed are considered fundamental determinants of football performance. The study sample consisted of 30 volunteer male football players in the U-18 age category residing in Istanbul. Participants were selected based on specific criteria, including age, active engagement in sports, and the absence of any disabilities or health problems. The 30 athletes meeting these criteria were randomly assigned into three experimental groups of 10 participants each. These groups were categorized as endurance, strength, and speed groups, with training programs specifically designed for each group. In addition to their group-specific training programs, all participants regularly performed a common hip flexor exercise protocol. The training interventions were conducted over a 12-week period, with sessions held three times per week. Pre-test and post-test measurements were taken before and after the intervention period. The data obtained were analyzed using the SPSS 27.0 statistical software package. The Shapiro-Wilk normality test indicated that the data were normally distributed. For statistical analyses, a One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to compare pre-test and post-test values, while a Two-Way ANOVA was employed for within-group comparisons. The significance level for all statistical analyses was set at p<0.05. As a result, following the 12-week hip flexor exercise intervention integrated into football training programs, no statistically significant differences were found in the parameters of sit-and-reach flexibility, standing long jump, Star Excursion Balance, and shuttle run when evaluated in terms of the main effect of time. However, statistically significant differences were observed in medicine ball throw, T-drill agility, back and leg strength, vertical jump, 20-meter sprint, and body fat percentage parameters. In the shuttle run test results, although no statistically significant difference was detected in terms of the main effect of time, significant differences were found in the Time x Group interaction and between-group comparisons. Consequently, it was concluded that the additional hip flexor exercises contributed positively to the parameters of medicine ball throw, T-drill agility, back and leg strength, vertical jump, 20-meter sprint, and body fat percentage.