Assessment of Linear Speed and Change of Direction Ability in Elite Male Soccer: A Systematic Review of Test Protocols Used in Scientific Literature

ABSTRACT Linear sprinting and turning actions are frequently performed in a soccer game, linked with crucial game moments. A comprehensive and systematic search in linear speed and change of direction (COD) ability assessment procedures in elite soccer is needed. The aims of the systematic review were (a) to identify the tests and outcome variables used to assess linear speed and COD ability of elite male soccer players, (b) to provide normative values for the most common tests of linear speed and COD ability, and (c) to report the reliability values of the identified linear speed and COD tests. For linear speed testing, sprint distances ranged from 5 to 50 m, with 10 m (72 studies), 20 m (54 studies), 5 m (46 studies), and 30 m (46 studies) being the most frequently assessed. For COD testing, the zig-zag test (14 studies), the agility T-test (11 studies), and the 505 COD test (8 studies) represented the most frequently performed tests. Distances shorter than 30 m prevailed in linear speed testing. COD tests used a wide range of distances, modes of travel, angles, and number of turns, with no gold-standard protocol being evident. Standardized methods are imperative for accurate benchmarking and transferability of the results.