Effects of pelvic stability on instep shooting speed and accuracy in junior soccer players

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of wearing a pelvic compression belt on ball speed and accuracy in instep shoots of youth soccer players. Design: Randomized cross-over design. Methods: We included 20 male junior soccer players with experience of more than 5 years. Participants were randomly assigned to two conditions: application of a pelvic compression belt and instep shooting or no application. Instep shooting was performed three times at a distance of 20 meters from the position of the goal post, and the ball speed was measured using a speed gun at a position 5 meters behind the goal post. The shooting accuracy was measured based on a 5-point scale. The shooting accuracy was measured by scoring 5 points at 2.44 meters in the middle of the goal area of area A, 3 points at 2.44 meters in the goal area of area B, and 0 in the case of shooting outside the goal area C. Results: After applying a pelvic compression belt, the mean speed of the ball was significantly increased (p<0.05). The maximum speed of the ball was significantly increased (p<0.05). The accuracy of the ball was significantly increased (p<0.05). Conclusions: Through this study, we expect that the use of the pelvic compression belt can be applied as a training method to improve the shooting ability of soccer players. Clinically, pelvic compression belts are expected to help rehabilitation soccer players to improve their shooting accuracy.