Jorge Rifo Polanco

University of Alba, Chile

Abstract Title: Effectiveness of Foot-Core Training on Speed and Acceleration Parameters in Youth Football Players

Biography: Jorge Alejandro Rifo Polanco is a Physical Therapist from Chile and university instructor specializing in biomechanics, functional assessment, and sports medicine. He holds a master’s degree in clinical exercise physiology, which strengthens his ability to integrate physiological principles into performance assessment, rehabilitation, and training. He has participated in national scientific conferences, including the Chilean Sports Medicine Society Congress, where he presented research on strength training and dynamic balance in older adults. His work combines clinical evaluation, biomechanical analysis, and academic teaching, contributing to the development of students and the advancement of evidence‑based practice in human movement and injury prevention.

Research Interest: Introduction: Conventional training in youth football players typically emphasizes strength and plyometric exercises, often neglecting the intrinsic foot musculature that forms the foot core system. This musculature contributes to load absorption, propulsion, and stability during running. Insufficient foot core training may limit the development of essential biomechanical abilities, potentially affecting sprint performance, changes of pace, and directional control. This study evaluates whether foot core training effectively complements conventional training to improve sprint speed, changes of pace, direction, and acceleration in youth football players. Methods: A quantitative, quasi-experimental, cross-sectional design was used. The sample included 29 youth football players from the Ñublense club, divided into a control group (n = 14) and an experimental group (n = 15). The experimental group completed a four‑week foot core training program (two sessions per week), incorporating short foot, tower curl, and doming exercises. Performance was assessed through the Bangsbo sprint test and the Illinois agility test, measuring acceleration, sprint speed, and changes of pace and direction. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS with Wilcoxon and Mann–Whitney U tests. Results:The experimental group showed significant improvements (p < 0.001) in all performance variables, particularly sprint speed and changes of pace. No meaningful changes were observed in the control group. These results suggest that strengthening intrinsic foot musculature enhances neuromuscular efficiency and biomechanical stability, contributing to improved functional performance in youth football players. Discussion: The findings align with prior evidence supporting intrinsic foot muscle strengthening to optimize lower‑limb mechanics and reduce injury risk. Foot core training appears to complement conventional training by improving stability, force transfer, and movement control. Conclusion: Foot core training proved effective, feasible, and low‑cost, improving acceleration, sprint speed, and biomechanical stability. Its incorporation into youth football conditioning programs is recommended, with potential applications in other sports and athletic populations.