By: Alexander Grøne Larsen & Mikkel Halle Sørensen
Background
Flexibility is considered a fundamental component of athletic performance and is defined as a joint’s ability to move through its full range of motion (ROM). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between active hip joint range of motion and performance in seven football-specific tests.
Methods
Eleven male non-elite football players participated in the study. Active range of motion in hip flexion, adduction, and internal rotation was assessed using a goniometer on a specialized screening mat. Participants completed a series of tests evaluating balance, change of direction, jumping ability, shooting, passing, and dribbling performance. Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation coefficients were calculated using SPSS for statistical analysis.
Results
The analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between performance in the dynamic leap balance test (right) and internal rotation of the right hip joint (r = −0.786, p = 0.004), as well as between the dynamic leap balance test (left) and internal rotation of the right hip joint (r = −0.791, p = 0.004). No significant correlations were identified between hip joint range of motion and performance in the remaining tests.
Conclusion
Greater hip joint range of motion appears to have a positive influence on dynamic balance performance. However, the findings provide no significant evidence that range of motion affects technical or physical performance in the other football-specific tests. Consequently, further research is required to better understand the role of joint flexibility in football performance.