The role of leg volume and leg mass in determining the anaerobic performance and isokinetic knee strength in male soccer players

Aim. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of leg volume and leg mass in the anaerobic performance and isokinetic knee strength of 21 (20.3 +/- 1.08 years) male soccer players. Methods. In order to determine body composition, subjects' height, body weight and skinfold thicknesses were taken. Body fat percentage was determined by the Jackson and Pollock formula (1978). Circumferential measurements were used to determine leg volume (LV) by the Frustum Method and then, a regression formula was used. For this formula, the R square (R-2) value was 0.95 and the standard error value was 0.057. Leg mass (LM) was determined by the Hanavan Method. Wingate Anaerobic Power Test (WAnT), squat jump (SJ) and counter movement jump (CMJ) were used to determine anaerobic performance and peak isokinetic knee extension. Flexion torques were measured at 60, 150, 180 and 240 degrees/s. Results. LV and LM were significantly correlated with peak power (PP), mean power (MP), CMJ and Si (r=0.50 to 0.59; P<0.05-R-2=%24.9 to 35.5). Conclusion. The findings of the present study indicate that LV and LM play an important role in anaerobic performance in soccer players. The coach who wishes to improve performance over such short distance sprints, jumping, shooting, turns and dribbles should seek to increase leg volume and mass. In addition, the implication is that specific lower strength training to increase leg volume and mass will enhance anaerobic and strength performance.