Running patterns and force‐velocity sprinting profiles in elite training young soccer players: A cross‐sectional study
Qingshan Zhang, Félicie Pommerell, Adam Owen, Robin Trama, Cyril Martin, Christophe Hautier
Abstract
Abstract The Volodalen® field method permits to classify runners into aerial or terrestrial, based on vertical oscillation, upper‐body motion, pelvis and foot position at ground contact, and foot strike pattern. The present study aimed to compare the sprint running force‐velocity profiles between aerial and terrestrial runners. Sixty‐Four French National‐Level young soccer players (28 females, 36 males) performed three trials of unloaded maximal 40 m sprints. External horizontal power‐force‐velocity relationships were computed using a validated biomechanical model and based on the velocity‐time curve. Accordingly, the participants were classified into patterns in aerial and terrestrial runners. Terrestrial runners showed a higher maximal horizontal force ( F 0 ) (6.73 ± 1.03 vs 6.01 ± 0.94 N·kg −1 ), maximal horizontal power ( P max ) (14.04 ± 3.24 vs 12.51 ± 3.31W·kg −1 ), maximal acceleration ( Acc ) (6.83 ± 0.85 vs 6.26 ± 0.89 m·s −2 ), and maximal rate of horizontal force ( RF max ) (57.41 ± 4.64 vs 52.81 ± 5.69%) compared to aerial runners. In contrast, terrestrial runners displayed a more negative rate of decrease of RF ( D RF ) (−11.65 ± 1.71 vs −10.23 ± 1.66%) and slope of the Force‐Velocity relationship (F‐V slope) (−0.83 ± 0.11 vs −0.77 ± 0.10 N·s·m −1 ·kg −1 ) than aerial runners. The results indicate that terrestrial runners displayed more efficient force production in the forward direction and displayed more “force‐oriented” F‐V profiles. Nevertheless, aerial runners were more effective in maintaining a net horizontal force production with increasing speed. Our results suggest that terrestrial runners could be more adapted to the specific short distance and high acceleration sprints running.