KINETIC ADJUSTMENTS OF SUBMAXIMAL SOCCER INSTEP KICKING

We aimed to demonstrate segmental dynamics during submaximal effort of soccer instep kicking. Eight male university level soccer players volunteered. Their kicking motions at 50, 75 and 100 % effort levels were captured at 500 Hz and the resultant ball velocities were monitored simultaneously using a pair of photocells. Apparent kinetic adjustments (angular impulses due to resultant joint and interaction moments) were clearly identified in both proximal and distal segments in response to the three target effort levels, thereby supporting the interpretation that the velocity of the distal end of the leg (foot) is controlled in a context of a proximal to distal segmental sequential system. Additionally, these players tended to hit the lower, off-centre part of the ball and also hit the ball more on the medial side of the foot using a less upright foot position to meet the lowered demands