Soccer and Rectus Abdominis Muscle Asymmetry
Author Information
Author(s): Idoate Fernando, Calbet Jose A. L., Izquierdo Mikel, Sanchis-Moysi Joaquin
Primary Institution: Clínica San Miguel, Pamplona, Spain; University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain; Public University of Navarre, Pamplona, Spain
Hypothesis
Professional soccer is associated with an asymmetric development of the rectus abdominis muscle, with greater volume in the dominant compared to the non-dominant side in regions close to the pubic symphysis.
Conclusion
Professional soccer is associated with marked hypertrophy of the rectus abdominis muscle, which achieves a volume that is 26% greater than in non-active controls.
Supporting Evidence
- Soccer players had 26% greater rectus abdominis volume than controls.
- Hypertrophy was observed in both the dominant and non-dominant sides of the rectus abdominis.
- The degree of side-to-side asymmetry increased from the first lumbar disc to the pubic symphysis in both groups.
Takeaway
Playing soccer makes your stomach muscles bigger and more balanced, helping both sides grow stronger.
Methodology
The volume of the rectus abdominis was determined using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 15 professional male soccer players and 6 non-active male control subjects.
Limitations
The study only included male participants and did not assess long-term effects of hypertrophy on injury risk.
Participant Demographics
15 male professional soccer players and 6 non-active male control subjects.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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