Differences between the kick performed with the dominant and non-dominant limbs in futsal (indoor soccer): variability, linear joint speed, ball speed and performance

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the hip, knee and ankle movement variability in kicks performed with dominant and non-dominant limbs in indoor soccer and to evaluate the performance, ball speed and the linear velocity of these joints and of the foot during the kicks. The participants performed five maximal instep kicks with each limb, which were recorded
by digital cameras at a sampling frequency of 120 Hz. The subjects had to hit a 1 x 1 m target positioned in the center of the goal. Images of the kicks were analyzed using DVIDEOW
software and the raw data was refined using the LOESS function. Results showed better performance, greater ball speed and smaller variability for the dominant limb and greater linear speed for the non-dominant side.