Publication details
The use of horizontal force-velocity profile in soccer: a rapid systematic review
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2025 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | BMC SPORTS SCIENCE MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| web | https://bmcsportsscimedrehabil.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13102-025-01232-0 |
| Doi | https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-025-01232-0 |
| Keywords | football; soccer; acceleration; performance; FVP |
| Description | Background: The ability to accelerate and reach high sprinting velocities is crucial for soccer performance. In this context, the horizontal force-velocity profile (H-FVP) has emerged as a practical tool to assess neuromuscular capabilities relevant to sprinting. This rapid review aims to critically describe the H-FVP utilisation in soccer and the characteristics of the existing methods used for its measurement and assessment. Methods: A rapid systematic review was conducted in accordance with Cochrane Rapid Reviews Guidance and PRISMA guidelines. The search of the MEDLINE (via PubMed), SPORTDiscus (via EBSCOhost) and Web of Science databases were conducted in February 2025. Eligibility considers studies that assessed H-FVP in soccer players of any competitive level and both sexes. Results: Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, analysing 1320 soccer players across different competitive levels. Most studies aimed to explore the relationship between H-FVP parameters and sprint or change of direction performance, while others focused on player position differences, maturation effects, fatigue responses, or injury status. For the characteristics of tests, linear sprints of 30 to 40 meters were the most common tests, often including split distances. The Samozino method was consistently used for H-FVP analysis. The most frequently assessed parameters were theoretical maximal force (F0), velocity (V0), and power (Pmax), with some studies also including the ratio of force (RF) and its decrease with speed (DRF). Radar systems, mobile applications, and photocells were the primary measurement tools. Conclusion: H-FVP plays a critical role in performance assessment and designing individualised training interventions in soccer, yet variations in testing methodologies limit comparability. The establishment of standardised assessment methodologies is essential to enhance the practical application of H-FVP in soccer. |
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