Seasonal variation of speed, agility and power performance in elite female soccer players: effect of functional fitness

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes of speed, agility and power performance during one soccer season and the impact of functional fitness on changes in motor performance in elite female soccer players. This study was conducted with 18 members of the Polish Women's National Football Team. The analyzed training season was divided into four training phases. Physical performance was assessed by a test of quickness - the 5m sprint, tests of maximal speed - the 30 m sprint, test of agility L-run test and tests of lower limb explosive power - counter movement jump (CMJ) and counter movement jump with arm swing. Functional fitness was assessed using the Functional Movement Screen (FMS). Individual functional training as well as a training plan based on FIFA 11+ prevention were utilized. The analysis showed significant improvement in the CMJ test (F=3.02, p<0.05) and FMS score (F=5.959, p<0.01) during the in-season. Other parameters of physical performance were stable during the evaluation period. Positive correlations between baseline FMS score and changes of athletes' 30m sprint performance (r=-0.48, p<0.05), total in-season change of FMS score and total inseason change of 5m sprint performance ( r=-0.53, p<0.05) were observed. Female soccer players during the in-season demonstrated a relatively good level of physical performance which corresponds to their particular training phase. Functional fitness intervention appears to be an effective way of improving speed, acceleration, and power performance in elite female soccer players.