Factors Associated with Endurance of Amateur Soccer Players

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of physical function of amateur soccer players on their levels of competition and to evaluate the relationship between each physical function item. [Participants and Methods] A total of 28 male soccer players, 21 from a high level team (group H) and 7 from a low level team (group N), were included in the study. Mean power and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) were measured as muscle and total body endurance, respectively, and in addition, jump power, lower limb muscle strength, and muscle mass of the lower limbs and trunk were compared between the two groups to evaluate the correlation between muscle and total body endurance and other physical parameters. [Results] Athletes in group H had significantly higher mean power than those in group N. Mean power was significantly correlated with jump power, lower limb strength, and lower limb and trunk muscle mass, and VO2max was significantly correlated with lower limb and trunk muscle mass. [Conclusion] These results suggest that differences in the competition level of amateur soccer players may be related to muscle mass.