Multidimensional predictors of soccer dribbling performance: a motor control perspective in physical education students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55040/81bt4e61Keywords:
soccer dribbling, motor control, coordination, change of direction, physical educationAbstract
This study examined multidimensional predictors of dribbling performance in soccer from a motor control perspective in physical education students. A cross-sectional predictive approach was used with 120 participants (72 men, 48 women; mean age = 21.3 ± 1.4 years). Dribbling performance was assessed using a standardized slalom test. Predictor variables included linear sprint speed, off-ball change of direction ability, lower limb power, and dynamic coordinative control with the ball. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression techniques. The regression analysis was statistically significant (F = 28.4, p < 0.001), explaining 53% of the variance in dribbling performance (adjusted R² = 0.53). Among the predictors, dynamic coordinative control with the ball proved to be the most influential factor (β = 0.41, p < 0.001), followed by linear sprint speed (β = 0.31, p < 0.001) and change-of-direction ability (β = 0.26, p = 0.001), while lower limb power was not a significant independent predictor (β = -0.09, p = 0.158). These findings suggest that dribbling performance in soccer is best explained by multidimensional motor control, emphasizing the central role of coordination in the context of physical education.
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