This study aimed to investigate the effects of an anterior superficial myofascial
chain strengthening program on maximum ball speed, myofascial elasticity, muscle activation,
and shank kinematics. in young soccer players. A total of 32 licensed soccer players,
aged 13–14 years, were recruited and randomly assigned to either an exercise group
or a control group. Participants in the exercise group underwent an eight-week anterior
superficial myofascial chain strengthening program consisting of three progressive
phases. At baseline and after the eight-week intervention, maximum ball speed during
the instep kick was measured using a radar gun; muscle activation was assessed via
surface electromyography; and shank rotational velocity and acceleration were recorded
using an inertial measurement unit. Myofascial elasticity was evaluated using a myotonometer.
Compared to the control group, the exercise group demonstrated significant improvements
in maximum ball speed, muscle activation, and myofascial elasticity. However, no significant
changes were observed in shank rotational velocities or accelerations. Correlation
analysis revealed that changes in maximum ball speed were significantly associated
with alterations in muscle activation and myofascial elasticity. Anterior superficial
myofascial chain strengthening program increases the maximum ball velocity during
instep kick in young soccer players by improving muscle activation and myofascial
elasticity.
