THE EFFECT OF FUNCTIONAL TRAINING ON BASIC STRENGTH AND DYNAMIC BALANCE IN FOOTBALL PLAYERS

Abstract

This research aims to identify the effect of functional training on basic strength and dynamic balance in football players. Specifically, it examines the impact of functional training on basic strength and dynamic balance. The researcher employed an experimental design, deemed most suitable for the nature of the research. A random sample of 26football players was selected, divided into two groups: 13players for a pilot study (validation of tests for reliability and validity) and 13players for the experimental group. The researcher developed a training program using functional exercises, which was implemented with the research sample for two months. The results demonstrated that the functional training program was clearly effective in improving the basic strength of the studied football players. The functional exercises also led to a noticeable improvement in dynamic balance levels, consistent with [the research findings]. Regarding the requirements for skill performance on the field, statistically significant differences were found between the pre- and posttests in favor of the post-test in all basic strength and dynamic balance tests. One of the most important recommendations was the necessity of adopting training programs based on functional exercises within the physical preparation plans for football players, due to their effective impact on developing basic strength and dynamic balance, and including stability and balance exercises within the daily training units of players with the aim of improving neuromuscular control and reducing the risk of sports injuries