A profile of Senaptec Strobe on functional balance in football players

Abstract

Background: Stroboscopic visual training (SVT) is an approach that involves wearing specialised eyewear to improve visual and perceptual abilities, potentially leading to enhanced motor performance in sports.

Aim: The aim of this study is to assess and improve balance in football players using SVT.

Setting: The study was conducted at the Sports Vision Centre, Department of Optometry, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute.

Methods: Ninety-eight male athletes were assigned to the experimental group (EG = 49) and the control group (CG = 49). The pre-tests, including the modified star excursion balance test (m-SEBT), arrowhead agility test and single leg hop test, were done. The EG group underwent SVT and proprioceptive training (PT) for 8 weeks, and the CG group underwent their regular football training. Post-tests were taken after 8 weeks of training. Then the pre- and post-tests were analysed and concluded.

Results: After 8 weeks of SVT, the EG showed significant improvement in their performances compared to the CG, which had a significant improvement in m-SEBT right leg stance (P ≤ 0.001), m-SEBT left leg stance (P ≤ 0.001), arrowhead agility right-side test (P ≤ 0.001), arrowhead agility left-side test (P ≤ 0.001), single right-leg hop test (P ≤ 0.001) and single left-leg hop test (P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion: The 8-week stroboscopic and PT had a great impact on improving balance, agility and jump performance in young football players. This shows that the SVT and PT can be implemented as training regimens in various sports.

Contribution: Stroboscopic visual training and PT can be included in a football training regimen to increase strength and balance.