Core stability training to optimize physical performance in soccer: Scoping review on intervention protocols

Identify, analyze and synthesize core stability training protocols used in soccer players.

Scoping review conducted according to Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines and reported according to the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Bireme was conducted from database inception through November 15, 2024, employing a strategy designed to identify studies that will employ core stability training in soccer players. Two reviewers conducted article screening on the Rayyan platform in two phases: review of titles and abstracts, and full-text evaluation. Data extraction followed an independent, blinded approach, and the results were synthesized in a descriptive way.

Of 2965 articles identified, 42 studies were selected after a rigorous screening process. These included 19 randomized clinical trials (45.23 %), 19 nonrandomized trials (45.23 %), three case series (7.14 %) and one randomized crossover trial (2.38 %). The studies involved 1233 soccer players aged 9-30 years. Six studies were published in Q1 journals, four in Q2, one in Q3, five in Q4, and 25 in non-indexed or de-indexed journals. The training protocols included static, dynamic and combined exercises, with durations of 3-12 weeks and frequencies of 2-5 sessions per week.

This review is pioneering in synthesizing core stability programs in soccer players, highlighting the predominance of clinical trials and providing a solid background for future systematic reviews and meta-analyses, facilitating future understanding of the effects of core stability training in soccer players.