Assessing jump strategy changes in collegiate women’s soccer players

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to assess jump strategy changes and determine which variables were sensitive to change over three days in collegiate women’s soccer players. Methods: This study assessed 16 soccer players using a countermovement jump from pre- to post-practice for three consecutive days. A paired t-test was conducted for each day of testing to determine the differences in performance pre- to post-practice. A single-subject analysis was conducted to determine whether the individuals experienced a true potential change. Results: Significant changes were observed on each day for propulsive impulse. Jump height and RSImod were significant on Days 2 and 3. At the individual level, not every participant saw improvements pre- to post-practice for each day. Conclusions: This study shows that when assessed for three days, collegiate women’s soccer players see similar changes in jump performance pre- to post-practice. The intensity of the session is important for understanding how CMJ performance will be impacted post-practice. Coaches and staff should consider session intensity when looking at how individuals respond post-practice.