Since soccer players often perform sprints that include fast speed variations, a SBS test could be more indicative of their performance than a linear run test. Since results do not support a correlation between SL and SBS tests, more specific analysis is needed to evaluate the player`s ability to run fast with speed variations. The methodology adopted in this study allowed to characterize the execution of the required motor task highlighting kinematic and energetic quantities observed. The inverse correlation observed between the anterior and lateral mechanical powers during braking revealed that, to reduce progression velocity during braking, subjects absorbed anterior power and generated lateral power proportionally. The contribution of the vertical power in braking was minimal, which might be due to the characteristic run of soccer players and the motor task they usually have to solve during a match.
© Copyright 2008 World Congress of Performance Analysis of Sport VIII. Published by Otto-von-Guericke-Universität, Department of Sports Science. All rights reserved.