A descriptive-comparative study of performance characteristics in futsal players of different levels

Gamonales J, Paulo R. Study of Body Composition and Motor Skills of Futsal Athletes of Different Competitive Levels

This study aimed to verify whether there are differences in the body composition, functionality, lower-limb power, agility, and cardiorespiratory capacity in futsal players, comparing futsal athletes by competitive level. The athletes (N = 84) were divided into three groups: group Elite (N = 29), group Sub-Elite (N = 29), and group Non-Elite (N = 26). Anthropometric variables were analyzed through a bioimpedance scale (Inbody 270), and functionality was analyzed through a functional movement screen battery. The power of the lower limbs was tested with the Abalakov jump, the agility with the zigzag agility test, and the cardiorespiratory capacity through the futsal intermittent endurance test. Anthropometric data from futsal athletes revealed a homogeneity in relation to the variables analyzed, regardless of the level of competition in which they operate. In performance variables, the power of the members and functionality was considered a discriminating factor of the level of competitiveness of the athletes, with the Elite group athletes presenting the best values. We concluded that there were no differences in relation to the body composition of the athletes. However, the athletes of higher levels, as a rule, present better performances in physiological aspects, results that can be explained by the fact that there is a better periodization in terms of training, with more intense loads and more complex competitive calendars, thus resulting in a greater specialization of these athletes.

Exploring countermovement jump variables across competitive levels and playing positions in futsal

Introduction

The aims of this study were to compare several countermovement jump (CMJ) kinetic variables between professional (PRO) and semi-professional (SEMI-PRO) futsal players and examine the differences amongst playing positions.

Methods

CMJ performance from 56 male futsal players (25.2 ± 4.8 years; weight: 74.4 ± 6.4 kg) was analysed. Players were separated into PRO (n = 29; 27.0 ± 4.4 years; 75.4 ± 6.0 kg) and SEMI-PRO (n = 27; 22.7 ± 4.3 years; 73.1 ± 6.8 kg), and according to playing position: defenders (n = 16; 25.4 ± 3.7 years; 75.2 ± 6.0 kg), wingers (n = 26; 23.5 ± 4.5 years; 72.0 ± 6.9 kg), and pivots (n = 14; 28.0 ± 5.6 years; 77.8 ± 4.3 kg). Linear mixed models and effect sizes were used for the analyses based on the mean of two jumps for each variable.

Results

PRO players presented a deeper center of mass (COM) displacement (p = 0.002, ES = 0.83), greater eccentric (Ecc) absolute (p = 0.019, ES = 0.61) and relative peak power (p = 0.046, ES = 0.52), and achieved greater Ecc peak velocities (p = 0.004, ES = 0.76) when compared to SEMI-PRO. Non-significant and trivial-to-small differences were observed in all the other CMJ variables according to the competitive level and playing position.

Discussion

Ecc capabilities (i.e., deeper COM displacement, greater Ecc absolute and relative peak power, and peak velocity) during vertical jump seem to differentiate PRO and SEMI-PRO players. However, CMJ variables do not discriminate amongst playing positions in futsal players.

Differences in Psychological Variables and the Performance of Female Futsal Players according to Playing Position, Match Result and Menstruation

Futsal performance has been extensively investigated in previous studies, demonstrating that the psychological state of the players or the playing position condition performance. However, research with female indoor soccer players is scarce; therefore, menstruation has not been considered as a determinant aspect for performance in females. Previous research has shown the influence of menstruation on the psychological state and performance of players of different sports; however, there is no known research on female futsal players. For this reason, the aims of the present research were to establish the differences in pre-match psychological variables and offensive performance as a function of playing position, match result and menstruation. A total of 132 s division Spanish players participated in the research. All participants completed the Questionnaire of Psychological Needs of the Athlete-15, and their regular league matches were recorded and subsequently analyzed to determine their offensive performance. The results showed differences according to playing position: pivots and closers showed greater motivation than wings, while the pivots showed greater activation and shots on goal than the wings and closers. Regarding match results, pivots demonstrated more shots on goals than closers only when the match was lost. In addition, the motivation and activation of the pivots, as well as the number of shots on goal, were higher than that of the wings and closers only when they were not menstruating.

Systematic review of the anthropometric profile of female futsal players 2010-2020

The objective was to summarize the scientific literature on the anthropometric characteristics of female futsal players. A systematic review documentary study was carried out. SCOPUS, PUBMED and SCIELO databases were used to search for information on primary studies related to the anthropometric profile of women's indoor soccer (elite and non-elite). The keywords used were: futsal, female, anthropometry. The range of years for the search was from 2010 to 2020. To analyze anthropometric differences, two groups were formed: group A: elite and group B: non-elite. 31 primary studies were identified, 22 (71%) in Scopus, 5 (16.1%) in PUBMED and 4 (12.9%) in SCIELO. Three publication languages were considered (English, Spanish and Portuguese) and 6 countries were identified (Brazil, Spain, Iran, Turkey, Venezuela and Italy). Players in the elite group evidenced higher weight, height, and BMI relative to their non-elite counterparts. Discrepancy in anthropometric characteristics between elite and non-elite players was verified. These results suggest that in order to participate in competitions at the highest level in women's futsal, they should have greater weight, height and BMI than their non-elite counterparts.

Can the Supido Radar Be Used for Measuring Ball Speed during Soccer Kicking? A Reliability and Concurrent Validity Study of a New Low-Cost Device

The aim was to analyze the reliability and validity of a low-cost instrument, based on a radar system, to quantify the kicking ball speed in soccer. A group of 153 male soccer players (under-13, n = 53; under-15, n = 54; under-18, n = 46) participated in this study. Each player performed three kicks on the goal in a standardized condition while the ball speed was measured with three different devices: one Radar Stalker ATS II^® (reference criterion) and two Supido Radar^® (Supido-front of the goal and Supido-back of the goal). The standard error of measurement (SEM) expressed as a coefficient of variation (CV) and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were employed for assessing the reliability of each instrument. Stalker and Supido-back showed very high absolute (CV = 4.0-5.4%) and relative (ICC = 0.945-0.958) reliability, whereas Supido-front resulted in moderate to low reliability scores (CV = 7.4-15%, ICC = 0.134-0.693). In addition, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) values revealed an 'almost perfect' agreement between Stalker and Supido-back for the average (r = 0.99) and maximal (r = 0.98) ball speed, regardless of the ball speed range analyzed. However, Supido-front resulted in a poor degree of concordance (CCC = 0.688) and a high magnitude of error (17.0-37.5 km·h^-1) with the reference Stalker radar gun. The Supido Radar^® placed behind the goal could be considered a reliable and valid device for measuring ball speed in soccer.

Selected vs. Non-Selected Under-20 National Futsal Players: Differences between Physical Performance and Training Intensity Experienced in Training Camps

The aim of this study was two-fold: (i) analyze the variations in the physical fitness of selected and non-selected under-20 male national futsal players; and (ii) analyze the variations in training intensity monitored during training camps. Thirty-three Taiwan under-20 national futsal players were monitored for training intensity during 18 training camps. They were divided into two groups: selected (n = 14) and non-selected (n = 17) players. The physical assessments included the following measures: body mass, distance covered at Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test Level 1, final velocity at 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (30-15 IFT), standing long jump, maximum heart rate (HR), and 1-min sit-up. The training intensity was monitored using the rate of perceived exertion (RPE), HR at different intensity zones, and locomotor demands measured at different speed thresholds. The results revealed that the selected players were significantly faster in the 15-m sprint with ball (p = 0.001) and 30-m sprint (p = 0.001). Additionally, the selected players presented significantly greater HRaverage and time spent above 90% maximum HR during the three-to-six-day training camps (p < 0.05) compared to the non-selected players. Interestingly, the NS demonstrated a greater number of sprints during the training camps (p = 0.001), while the selected players presented greater distance/minute and average speed (p = 0.001). A regression analysis showed that the distance/minute and average speed was a significant predictor of maximum HR in the selected players. As conclusions, the physical fitness outcomes are different between the selected and non-selected national futsal players. The selected players spent more time in high intensity HR demands in training sessions.

Generic motor abilities and anthropometrics are poorly related to futsal-specific agility performance; multiple regression analysis in professional players

Study aim: This study aimed to evaluate predictors of futsal-specific change-of-direction speed and futsal-specific reactive agility in professional male futsal players.

Material and methods: The players (n=75) studied were members of seven futsal teams that competed at the highest national level in Croatia and in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The predictors in this study included measures of generic power, speed, agility, and anthropometrics. The univariate and multivariate relationships among the predictors and the criteria (futsal-specific change-of-direction speed and futsal-specific reactive agility) were assessed by using Pearson’s correlations and multiple regression analysis, respectively.

Results: The predictors were poorly related to the different facets of agility (all trivial to moderate correlations). Multiple regression models were not successfully cross-validated for any of the types of agility performance.

Conclusion: Generic power, speed, agility, and anthropometrics are not valid predictors of futsal-specific change-of-direction speed and futsal-specific reactive agility. As these futsal performances were used to mimic real-game situations in futsal, these findings suggest that superiority in generic motor abilities and anthropometrics may not have a significant effect on performance in futsal matches.

Effects of acute caffeine ingestion on futsal performance in sub-elite players

PURPOSE

To date, no previous investigation has studied the effect of acute caffeine ingestion on futsal performance during futsal-specific testing and during a simulated match. Therefore, the aim of this investigation was to establish the effects of acute caffeine intake on futsal-specific tests and match-play running performance in male futsal players.

METHODS

Sixteen high-performance futsal players participated in a randomized, crossover, placebo-controlled and double-blind experiment. Each player completed two identical trials after ingesting either caffeine (3 mg/kg) or a placebo (cellulose). The trials consisted of a battery of futsal-specific tests (countermovement jump, 20-m sprint test, and a futsal kicking velocity and accuracy test) followed by a simulated futsal match (2 halves of 7.5 min). During the match, players' running performance was assessed with local positioning system devices.

RESULTS

In comparison to the placebo, caffeine ingestion increased jump height by 2.8% (p = 0.048; ES = 0.29) and reduced the time to complete the 20-m sprint test by -2.2% (p = 0.044; ES = - 0.54). Additionally, acute caffeine intake improved the distance covered at above 14.4 km/h by 19.6% (p = 0.021; ES = 0.58), the number of body impacts by 8.1% (p = 0.040; ES = 0.27) and the number of accelerations/decelerations by 4.2% (p = 0.044; ES = 0.57) during the simulated futsal match. However, no differences were reported in ball velocity or shooting accuracy in the futsal kicking test. There were no differences in the prevalence of side effects reported in the hours after the ingestion of the treatments.

CONCLUSION

Three mg/kg of caffeine enhanced several physical variables associated with futsal such as jump and sprint performance, and improved high-speed running and accelerations/decelerations during a simulated futsal match. Caffeine supplementation with a moderate dose can be considered as an effective ergogenic aid for futsal performance with low prevalence of side effects.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the following ID: NCT04852315. The study was retrospectively registered by 18 April 2020.

Updating futsal physiology, immune system, and performance

Futsal promotes stress by handling the ball, physical contact, and exhaustive muscle contractions, elevating the risks for injury, oxidative stress, and inflammation after a training session or a match. In this review, we critically evaluate the more recent advances in the performance and health of futsal players. We searched the effects of futsal on performance, physiological parameters, muscle injury, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Although the stressful factors apply to all futsal players, goalkeepers require special attention during the competition and the recovery phase. We also show that the FIFA injury prevention programme, called The 11+, is effective in improving athletic performance and avoiding injury in futsal players. Research with different training durations and intensities and a wider range of studies involving oxidative stress, inflammation, and physiological mechanisms are of interest to design a more precise map of the biochemical regulation of training load and competition season in futsal.

Physiological and Anthropometric Determinants of Performance Levels in Professional Futsal

There is an evident lack of studies examining the pursuit of excellence in futsal. The aims of this study were to evaluate anthropometric and physiological variables that may contribute to distinguishing among performance levels in professional futsal players and to evaluate correlates of those variables. The participants were 75 male professionals (age = 25.1 ± 5.1 years, body height = 182.3 ± 6.2 cm, body mass = 80.8 ± 10.4 kg), who were divided into performance levels using two criteria: (i) starters (first teams) vs. non-starters (substitutes) and (ii) top-level players (members of the national team and players who participated in top-level team competition in Europe) vs. high-level players (team players competing at the highest national competitive rank). Variables included anthropometrics (body height and mass, BMI, body fat percentage), generic tests of physiological capacities [5- and 10-m sprints, countermovement jump, broad jump, 20-yard test, reactive strength index (RSI)], and futsal-specific fitness tests [kicking speed by dominant and non-dominant leg, futsal-specific tests of change of direction speed, and reactive agility (FSRAG) involving/not involving dribbling the ball]. Top-level players outperformed high-level players in RSI, broad jump, kicking speed, and FSRAG involving dribbling. Starters achieved better results than non-starters in fewer variables, including kicking speed and RSI. Body fat percentage negatively influenced FSRAG involving dribbling, and RSI. FSRAG, RSI, and kicking speed were significantly correlated, indicating the similar physiological background of these capacities. The findings suggest that enhanced reactive strength and the ability to rapidly change direction speed in response to external stimulus while executing futsal-specific motor tasks (e.g., dribbling), along with players' ability to kick the ball speedily, can be considered essential qualities required for advanced performance in futsal. Consequently, futsal strength and conditioning training should be targeted toward lowering relative body fat, maximizing lower-body reactive strength and including futsal-specific skills (e.g., dribbling, shooting) in reactive agility drills.

Slow-Speed Resistance Training Increases Skeletal Muscle Contractile Properties and Power Production Capacity in Elite Futsal Players

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of slow-speed resistance training with low intensity (SRT) on muscle power output in elite futsal players with respect to traditional resistance training. The authors hypothesized that the muscle deoxygenation during SRT causes early recruitment of fast twitch fibers that would positively affect strength and power performance. Thirty male elite futsal players were recruited and randomly assigned either to SRT group or to traditional resistance training (TRT) group. All players underwent an 8-weeks experimental protocol consisting of 2 training sessions per week at both leg curl and leg extension machines. In the SRT, players lifted 50% of one maximum repetition (1RM) involving 3 s for eccentric and concentric actions. In the TRT, players lifted 80% of 1RM involving 1 s for eccentric and concentric actions. All players were tested twice (pre and post) for sprint and jump performances, maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MVC) and maximal isokinetic peak torque (Peak TQ) and total work (TW) at 60 and 120°/s (on knee extensors and flexors). The two groups presented remarkable differences in the within-group changes for all the variables. SRT exhibited greater improvements in both Peak TQ and TW for knee extensors and flexors at 120°/s. Conversely, TRT showed greater improvements in MVC, and in both Peak TQ and TW for knee extensors and flexors at 60°/s, except for Peak TQ of the knee extensors, where no significant difference was found between TRT and SRT. Countermovement jump showed a decrease in eccentric time and an increase in concentric force in SRT group. SRT and TRT resulted effective to enhance the strength performance indices during the 8-weeks experimental protocol. Peak torque at 120°/s explained more of the contractile characteristic effects of SRT training than MVC, suggesting that slow-speed training can cause fast twitch fibers hypertrophy in elite athletes. Since slow-speed training is supposed to produce a decreased exercise-induced muscle damage, SRT method is a suitable option in strength training for futsal and team sports.

Physical and Physiological Match-Play Demands and Player Characteristics in Futsal: A Systematic Review

Futsal, also known as five-a-side indoor soccer, is a team-sport that is becoming increasingly popular. In fact, the number of futsal-related investigations is growing in recent years. This review aimed to summarize the scientific literature addressing the match-play demands from the following four dimensions: time-motion/external load analysis and physiological, neuromuscular, and biochemical responses to competition. Additionally, it aimed to describe the anthropometric, physiological, and neuromuscular characteristics of elite and sub-elite male futsal players, contemplating the differences between competition levels. The literature indicates that elite futsal players cover greater total distance with higher intensities and perform a greater number of sprints during match-play when compared to sub-elite players. The physiological demands during competition are high (average intensity of ≥85% maximal heart rate and ~80% maximum oxygen uptake [VO2max]), with decrements between the two halves. Research suggests that neuromuscular function decreased and hormonal responses increased up to 24 h after the match. Considering anthropometric characteristics, players present low percentage of body fat, which seems commonplace among athletes from different on-court positions and competition levels. Elite players display greater values and at VO2max with respect to sub-elite competitors. Little is known regarding elite and sub-elite futsal players' neuromuscular abilities (strength, jumping, sprinting, and change of direction [COD]). However, it appears that elite players present better sprinting abilities compared to lower-level athletes. Futsal players aiming to compete at the highest level should focus on developing maximal speed, lower-body power and strength, aerobic capacity, and lean muscle mass.

Fitness profiles of professional futsal players: identifying age-related differences

Study aim: The aim of this study was to determine the fitness profiles of senior and junior futsal players and to identify potential differences between the studied age groups.

Materials and methods: 44 male futsal players from 5 professional futsal teams participated in this study. Subjects were divided into two age groups (seniors [>18 years; n = 26] vs juniors [<18 years of age; n = 18]). Players were tested for anthropometrics (body mass, body height and body fat percentage), jumping capacity (countermovement jump and standing broad jump), kicking speed (for dominant and non-dominant leg), sprinting capacity (5- and 10-meter sprints), 20-yard test, futsal-specific reactive agility, and futsal-specific change-of-direction speed tests.

Results: No significant differences between age groups were apparent for anthropometrics. Seniors achieved better results than juniors in tests of kicking speed, for both the dominant (106.81 ± 6.94 km/h and 100.94 ± 5.33 km/h, respectively, t-test: 3.02 [p < 0.001], Cohen’s d: 1.02) and nondominant leg (95.54 ± 8.57 km/h and 85.28 ± 8.71 km/h, respectively, t-test: 3.88 [p < 0.001], Cohen’s d: 1.25).

Conclusions: Seniors did not achieve significantly better results than juniors in most of the observed variables. Since the maximum biological maturity occurs up to 18 years, and studied juniors were in their late adolescence, we can assume that differences between groups are related to other indices (i.e. technical skills, tactical knowledge).

Local Positioning System Analysis of Physical Demands during Official Matches in the Spanish Futsal League

The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of the match half and the playing position on physical requirements in the Spanish Professional Futsal League players during official games. The external load from distance, speed, acceleration and deceleration variables were obtained from fourteen elite futsal players during 10 official matches of the 2019–2020 season using a Local Positioning System with ultra-wideband technology installed on the futsal pitch. The results revealed similar results from physical requirements between first and second half (p > 0.05). Wingers demonstrated greater high-speed running distance (+4.04 m·min⁻¹; CI95%: 0.35 to 7.72; ES: 0.87) than pivots (p > 0.05). There were a high number of accelerations (7.42–9.41 n·min⁻¹) and decelerations (7.37–9.12 n·min⁻¹) per minute in all player positions. The principal finding of the current manuscript did not evidence differences in the physical performance of players between the first and second half. The physical requirements varied among pivots and wingers regarding high-intensity actions. These outcomes add new contributions to the understanding of futsal physical demands.

Reliability and Validity of a Novel Futsal Special Performance Test Designed to Measure Skills and Anaerobic Performance

PURPOSE

To examine the validity and reliability of a novel futsal special performance test (FSPT) as a measure of futsal performance and skills.

METHODS

Thirty-six futsal players with different levels of experience were recruited and divided into 2 groups (elite and nonelite). Players participated in 4 sessions (at least 7 d apart): (1) familiarization session, (2) anaerobic power (Wingate test), (3) FSPT trial 1, and (4) FSPT trial 2. The FSPT was carried out on a futsal court (wooden sprung floor) and skills such as dribbling, rotation, long and short passing, and shooting were examined. Content validity was assessed by 6 experienced futsal coaches and instructors.

RESULTS

There was a significant correlation between FSPT and various aspects of anaerobic power (r = .5-.91; P ≤ .001). Moreover, significant large correlations were observed between test and retest of FSPT (r = .77; 95% confidence interval [CI], .56-.98; P ≤ .001). All instructors and coaches confirmed the content validity. There was high interrater reliability of the FSPT (r = .89; 95% CI, .85-.93; P < .001). FSPT total time (P = .001), penalty time (P = .022), and performance time (P = .001) were superior in elite relative to nonelite players. Anaerobic power was greater in elite players (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The results support the use of the FSPT to assess futsal players' performance in conjunction with skill and anaerobic fitness.

The Relationship of Age and BMI with Physical Fitness in Futsal Players

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of age and body mass status with field and laboratory measures of physical fitness in futsal players. Futsal players (n = 65, age 12.9 ± 2.8 years), who were classified into U11 (n = 28, 9-11 years), U13 (n = 21, 11-13 years), and adults (n = 16, >18 years), performed a physical fitness battery consisting of both laboratory and field tests. A similar prevalence of overweight (25%) was observed in all age groups (χ² = 1.94, p = 0.380, φ = 0.17). Age groups differed for all parameters, except body fat percentage, with adult players showing higher values than the younger groups (p < 0.05). U13 was heavier, taller, and had larger fat-free mass than U11 (p < 0.05). Adult players had superior values than their younger counterparts for all physical fitness parameters (p < 0.05). Body mass index (BMI) correlated inversely with aerobic capacity (U13), jumping ability, relative isometric muscle strength, and relative mean power in the Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) (U11) (p < 0.05). Also, it correlated directly with absolute isometric muscle strength (U11) and peak power, mean power (all groups), and fatigue index (U11, U13) in WAnT (p < 0.05). Considering the results of this study, it was concluded that the prevalence of overweight in futsal players should be an important concern for practitioners working in this team sport. Optimizing BMI should be considered as a training and nutrition goal in order to improve sport performance.

Effects of Low-Moderate Load High-Velocity Resistance Training on Physical Performance of Under-20 Futsal Players

Resistance training (RT) is an effective methodology to improve physical performance of athletes. However, up to now, no studies have addressed the RT benefits in under-20 futsal players. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of six weeks of RT with high-velocity movements, low-to-moderate loads, and low volume on physical performance of under-20 futsal players. A total of 21 players were divided into two groups: A control group (CG, n = 10) and a RT group (RTG, n = 11). The RTG performed two weekly training sessions constituted by leg-press, jumps, and sprints, along with three futsal training sessions, while the CG only performed the futsal training. Before and after the intervention, the sprint time in 0–10 m (T₁₀), 10–20 m (T_10–20), and 0–20 m (T₂₀), the countermovement jump (CMJ) height, the T-Test time, the kicking ball speed (KBS), and the maximum dynamic strength in the leg-press, were assessed. In post-test, significant improvements in CMJ, T-Test, KBS, and leg-press were found for the RTG, whilst a significant decrease in T_10–20 was evidenced in the CG. The present results suggested that RT based on high velocity movements, low-to-moderate loads, and low volume produce positive effects on physical performance of under-20 futsal players.

Differences in Physical Performance According to the Competitive Level in Futsal Players

The purpose of the present study was to describe performance in acceleration capacity, change of direction ability, vertical jump, horizontal jump, repeated sprint ability, and endurance (Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1) in futsal players, and analyze the differences according to competitive categories or levels. The total sample (n = 40) was divided into three groups depending on the category in which the participants competed: Second Division B (n = 15), Third Division (n = 12) and juniors (n = 13). All the tests were performed with participants’ regular competition shoes and on the usual playing surface, in an indoor pavilion with a floating wood floor. The results of the study did not show significant differences in acceleration capacity (5 and 15 m) or change of direction ability among the different categories. In contrast, significant differences were found among the categories with regard to horizontal jump and vertical jump capacity (p < 0.05); but not in all the variables analyzed. Performance in repeat sprint ability varied significantly among the different categories in 30 m (p < 0.01) but not in 5 m (p > 0.05). The distance covered in the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 by the Second Division B and the Third Division groups was greater than that covered by the junior group. In the light of these results repeated sprint ability and aerobic endurance could be two discriminating qualities of the competitive level among different futsal categories.

Physical and physiological demands of futsal

Futsal, the 5-a-side version of soccer (i.e. 1 goalkeeper and 4 outfield players), was introduced in 1930 and continues to grow in popularity around the world. Competitive games comprise of two 20-min periods of high-intensity and intermittent activities requiring substantial physical, tactical, and technical efforts from the players. A greater understanding of the physical and skill requirements will aid the development of futsal and enable practitioners to undertake appropriate training regimes for the demands of the sport. The objective of this review is to examine key aspects of futsal such as match analysis, physiological demands, energy requirements, fitness measurements, and skill requirements. Futsal players experience fatigue as the game progresses due to the high-intensity nature of the game and the repeated maximal sprint efforts required. The intermittent nature of the sport necessitates the use of aerobic and anaerobic energy pathways throughout exercise. Therefore, a futsal player needs to have a great capacity of intermittent endurance, repeated sprint ability, and leg power, while technical aspects include the ability of high level shooting and passing skills, agility and coordination. Future research is warranted to help practitioners develop more specific tests into futsal performance, especially with regards skill.

Acute effect of stretching modalities on global coordination and kicking accuracy in 12-13year-old soccer players

The aim of the study was to compare the effect of stretching procedures on global coordination and accuracy in instep soccer kicks achieved in different stress conditions. Twenty male young soccer players completed the global coordination test (GC), the instep kicking accuracy test in free (FKA) and in time-pressure (TPKA) conditions, either after static (SS), dynamic (DS), ballistic (BS) or no-stretching (CTR) protocols, on nonconsecutive days and in a randomized order. After performing a 5min standardized intensity jogging (70% of MAV), followed by stretching exercises for 10min, each participant completed, successively, the GC, FKA and TPKA tests. Accuracy data, heart-rate, rating of perceived exertion and task difficulty perception were recorded and analyzed using a two-way ANOVA. GC scores were analyzed using one way ANOVA with repeated measures. The results showed higher GC and TPKA performances after DS and BS procedures. However, there was no effect of the stretching procedures on FKA. The GC scores increased by 10.8% and 7.2% after DS and BS, respectively, but were not affected by SS. Compared to FKA, the TPKA accuracy significantly decreased by 20.2% after CTR (p<0.01) and 30.7% SS (p<0.001) with no significant difference after DS (10.1%; p>0.05) and BS (11.0%; p>0.05). The use of dynamic and ballistic stretching yielded to better GC scores and helped reducing the adverse effect of time-pressure on instep kicking accuracy. Consequently, dynamic and ballistic exercises can be recommended before practicing activities requiring coordination and lower limbs speed and accuracy.

Futsal Match-Related Fatigue Affects Running Performance and Neuromuscular Parameters but Not Finishing Kick Speed or Accuracy

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of futsal match-related fatigue on running performance, neuromuscular variables, and finishing kick speed and accuracy.

Methods: Ten professional futsal players participated in the study (age: 22.2 ± 2.5 years) and initially performed an incremental protocol to determine maximum oxygen uptake (V˙O2max: 50.6 ± 4.9 mL.kg⁻¹.min⁻¹). Next, simulated games were performed, in four periods of 10 min during which heart rate and blood lactate concentration were monitored. The entire games were video recorded for subsequent automatic tracking. Before and immediately after the simulated game, neuromuscular function was measured by maximal isometric force of knee extension, voluntary activation using twitch interpolation technique, and electromyographic activity. Before, at half time, and immediately after the simulated game, the athletes also performed a set of finishing kicks for ball speed and accuracy measurements.

Results: Total distance covered (1st half: 1986.6 ± 74.4 m; 2nd half: 1856.0 ± 129.7 m, P = 0.00) and distance covered per minute (1st half: 103.2 ± 4.4 m.min⁻¹; 2nd half: 96.4 ± 7.5 m.min⁻¹, P = 0.00) demonstrated significant declines during the simulated game, as well as maximal isometric force of knee extension (Before: 840.2 ± 66.2 N; After: 751.6 ± 114.3 N, P = 0.04) and voluntary activation (Before: 85.9 ± 7.5%; After: 74.1 ± 12.3%, P = 0.04), however ball speed and accuracy during the finishing kicks were not significantly affected.

Conclusion: Therefore, we conclude that despite the decline in running performance and neuromuscular variables presenting an important manifestation of central fatigue, this condition apparently does not affect the speed and accuracy of finishing kicks.

Light-load maximal lifting velocity full squat training program improves important physical and skill characteristics in futsal players

This study aimed to compare the effect of 6 weeks of resistance training or combined resistance training and change of direction exercises on physical performance and motor skills in futsal players. Thirty-four futsal players were divided into full squat group (SG, n = 12), combined full squat and change of direction exercises group (S+CDG, n = 12) and control group (CG, n = 10). The resistance training for SG consisted of full squat with low load (~45-58% 1RM) and low volume (4-6 repetitions), whereas the S+CDG performed the same resistance training program combined with loaded change of direction. Sprint time in 10 and 20 m, change of direction test, countermovement vertical jump (CMJ) height, maximal strength and force-velocity relationship in full squat exercise, kicking speed ball (BS_mean) and repeated sprint ability (RSA_mean) were selected as testing variables. Both experimental groups showed significant improvements for CMJ, BS_mean and all strength parameters. Only SG resulted in significant sprint gains, whereas S+CDG also achieved significant improvements in RSA_mean. The CG remained unchanged after training period. No significant differences were found between both experimental groups. These findings suggest that only 12 sessions of either lightweight resistance training alone, lifting the load at maximal intended velocity or combined with change of direction exercises is enough to improve several physical and skills capacities critical to futsal performance in adult players.