The aim of the study was to determine the profile of muscular strength and strength asymmetries of national male soccer players (n = 25, age = 15.6 ± 0.2 years, body height = 177.4 ± 6.8 cm, body mass = 67.0 ± 7.7 kg).The muscular strength of the lower limbs was assessed using a CybexHumac Norm isokinetic dynamometer (Cybex NORM ®, Humac, CA, USA). The maximum peak muscle torque of the knee extensors (PTE) and flexors (PTF) of the dominant (D) and non-dominant leg (N) during concentric contraction were measured at several angular velocities of movement (60, 120, 180, 240 and 300 °/s). The muscular strength of knee extensors and flexors were significantly reduced with increasing movement velocity in both extremities (p<0.05). Significant differences were found between muscle strength of extensors at 240 and 300 °/s, and flexors at the lowest velocity (p<0.05). Hamstring to quadriceps ratio (H:Q) between legs at 240 °/s was significantly different (p<0.05).Our study indicated that almost 60 % of young male players have at least one strength asymmetry (bilateral knee flexor or quadriceps) regardless of their limb`s preferences. Screening examination of muscle strength asymmetries is a useful tool for prevention of muscle injuries in young soccer players. The strength asymmetries represent a potential risk of a player`s injury; therefore the detected asymmetries should be systematically monitored and compensated using specific exercises.
© Copyright 2015 Acta Kinesiologica. DPTZK Ljubuški. All rights reserved.