Exploring the Acute Benefits of Manual Soft Tissue Mobilization and Myofascial Release on Dynamic Athletic Performance in National Level Soccer Players
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17309/tmfv.2025.4.07Keywords:
myofascial release, manual soft tissue mobilization, athletic performance, soccer players, explosive power, fascial systemAbstract
Objectives. This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of Manual Soft Tissue Mobilization (MSTM) and Myofascial Release (MFR) on key dynamic performance metrics in national-level male soccer players.
Materials and methods. Twenty-four nationally competitive male soccer players (aged 18–23) were randomly assigned to MSTM (n = 12) and MFR (n = 12) groups. Each participant underwent a single intervention session specific to their group. Pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted to evaluate flexibility (Sit-and-Reach Test), explosive power (Standing Broad Jump and Countermovement Jump), and dynamic balance (Single-Leg Hop Test). Certified professionals used standardized application protocols. Repeated measures ANOVA was employed to determine statistical significance, and partial eta squared (η²p) was used to assess effect size.
Results. Both MSTM and MFR resulted in substantial enhancements (p < .05) across all performance metrics. The MFR group demonstrated superior gains compared to the MSTM group: flexibility (+11.58% vs. +5.29%, η²p = .61), standing broad jump (+4.25% vs. +2.15%, η²p = .70), countermovement jump (+7.68% vs. +4.65%, η²p = .56), and dynamic balance (+4.11% vs. +3.03%, η²p = .29). All changes were statistically significant, with MFR exhibiting larger effect sizes.
Conclusions. The study concluded that both soft tissue techniques significantly improved flexibility, explosive power, and dynamic balance in elite male soccer players, with MFR consistently yielding greater acute benefits. These findings highlight the effectiveness of incorporating MFR into pre-competition warm-up routines for enhancing immediate performance. Further research should focus on exploring the longevity of these effects, sport-specific performance metrics, and combined protocols to refine pre-competition strategies.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Awesh Khati, Rintu Saibya, Namchan Norbu Bhutia, Jinnatunnesha Khatun, Mohit, Harish Singh, Sohom Saha
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