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German Journal of Exercise and Sport Research

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19.10.2021 | Main Article

Relationship of executive functions and physical abilities in elite soccer players

verfasst von: Hans-Erik Scharfen, Daniel Memmert

Erschienen in: German Journal of Exercise and Sport Research | Ausgabe 3/2022

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Abstract

Objectives

This study investigated the relationship of executive functions and physical abilities in youth and adult elite soccer players.

Design and methods

In all, 172 elite soccer players (12–34 years of age) performed a computer-based test battery assessing multiple-object tracking, working memory capacity, cognitive flexibility, and inhibition. Another series of tests measured endurance-performance at the individual anaerobic threshold (IAT), ability to repeatedly perform intense exercises (RIEA), and maximal anaerobic performance parameters (squat jump, counter movement jump, drop jump quotient, sprint time).

Results

Executive functions and maximal anaerobic parameters showed small to moderate correlations for example, working memory capacity and cognitive flexibility with sprint, countermovement- and drop jump along with a correlation of inhibition and RIEA.

Conclusion

These findings favor specific motor–cognition associations rather than a one-fits-all association. Specifically, sprint and jump seem to be more closely linked to cognitive skills than endurance parameters and represent fundamental associations across several age groups.

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Titel: Relationship of executive functions and physical abilities in elite soccer players
verfasst von: Hans-Erik Scharfen
Daniel Memmert
Publikationsdatum: 19.10.2021
Verlag: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Erschienen in: German Journal of Exercise and Sport Research / Ausgabe 3/2022
Print ISSN: 2509-3142
Elektronische ISSN: 2509-3150
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12662-021-00767-x

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Relationship of executive functions and physical abilities in elite soccer players

Abstract

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Design and methods

Results

Conclusion

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