Abstract
This study evaluated the reliability, sensitivity, and performance changes in physical
tests in highly trained adult female football players over the course of a competitive
season. Twenty players (21.1±2.72 years) participated in this study. Tests included
bilateral and unilateral countermovement jumps, unilateral horizontal jumps, 40-m
linear sprints, and change-of-direction (COD) tests (COD180° and V-cut). Relative
and absolute reliabilities were analyzed. Sensitivity was determined by comparing
the smallest worthwhile change to the typical error of measurement and, in addition,
changes in performance over the season were assessed in short-, medium-, and long-term
periods. Results demonstrated high reliability across all tests, with intraclass correlation
coefficient values ranging from 0.70 to 0.94 and coefficient of variation (CV) below
5%, meeting a priori reliability criteria. Vertical jumping exhibited the highest
reliability (0.89–0.92) and was sensitive in detecting moderate-to-large changes.
COD tests showed moderate-to-high reliability (0.70–0.89), with CODR180° sensitive
to seasonal adaptations. Sprint tests also displayed good reliability (0.80–0.94);
however, their sensitivity was limited. Notably, the unilateral jump tests and CODR180°
exceeded CV thresholds, highlighting their potential to monitor significant improvements
over time. Unilateral and COD-specific assessments emerged as particularly valuable
for detecting performance changes, underscoring the need for sport-specific testing
protocols in women's football.
Keywords
soccer - power - linear speed - change of direction - women
