Effects of balance training combined with stroboscopic visual training on balance ability in college-aged male soccer players

BACKGROUND: Balance training combined with stroboscopic visual training (SVT) has emerged as a potential intervention for enhancing athletic performance. However, limited evidence exists regarding its effectiveness on soccer players' balance abilities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a 12-week SVT combined with balance training program on balance ability in college-aged male soccer players. METHODS: Thirty male soccer players (aged 18-22 years) were randomly assigned to either an experimental group (SVT + balance training, n = 15) or a control group (traditional training, n = 15). Balance assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention using the Stork Stand Balance Test (SSBT), Static Single Stance Test (ST), Y-Balance Test (YBT), Sensory Organization Test (SOT), Motor Control Test (MCT), and Adaptation Test (ADT). The experimental group underwent thrice-weekly training sessions combining SVT (3 Hz frequency) with progressive balance exercises. RESULTS: Significant improvements were observed in the experimental group compared to the control group across multiple parameters (p < 0.05). The experimental group demonstrated superior performance in SSBT (Cohen's d = 3.431), ST under eyes-closed conditions (d = 1.318), YBT for both dominant (d = 2.582) and non-dominant legs (d = 3.699), SOT composite score (d = 1.579), and ADT toes-down condition (d = 1.581). Additionally, significant enhancements were noted in visual (VIS) and vestibular (VEST) indices of the SOT. CONCLUSION: The 12-week balance training combined with SVT significantly improved static and dynamic balance abilities in college-aged male soccer players, particularly under visually challenging conditions. This integrated training approach may provide an effective strategy for enhancing balance control in soccer players. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2500103857). Registered 06 June 2025 (Retrospectively registered).