Abstract
Several studies reported the immediate positive effect of core stability exercises on postural balance in different populations. However, other studies documented no significant immediate effect on balance performance. It remains unclear whether a single session of core stability exercises can improve postural balance in soccer players with groin pain (GP). This study aimed to investigate the acute effect of core stability exercises on this parameter in these players. A total of 15 male soccer players with GP carried out a single session of 15 core stability exercises lasting 40 min. Static (force platform) and dynamic (Y-Balance test) postural balance outcomes were assessed 4 times: just before (T(0)), post-1 min (T(1 min)), post-30 min (T(30 min)), and post-24 h (T(24h)) of the core exercises. Soccer players with GP showed significantly improved (p < 0.05 - 0.001) static (bipedal; firm surface-eyes closed, injured limb; eyes opened and closed) and dynamic (injured and non-injured limbs) postural balance at T(24h), T(30min), T(1min) compared to T(0). Additionally, better dynamic postural balance measures on injured limb were observed at T(24h) and T(30min) when compared to T(1min). Findings revealed that a single session of core stability exercises acutely improved static and dynamic postural balance in soccer players with GP 1 min and 30 min after exercises, extending over 24 h. Therefore, trainers and coaches could consider integrating core exercises into warm-up programs for soccer players with GP who need to maintain balance during training and competitive events. Given that warm-up sessions typically last 25-30 min and the core exercises in this study require 40 min, players should complete an extra 25 min of core exercises before joining their teammates for the scheduled pre-warm-up and warm-up sessions. The remaining 15 min should be incorporated into the pre-warm-up session. Additionally, it is recommended to include these exercises into pre-event routines to optimize preparation time and balance performance during training sessions and competitive matches in soccer players with GP.