Running Symmetry in Professional Football: Are We Measuring What Matters?

The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between running symmetry measured by GPS devices and the risk of injury and performance metrics among professional soccer players. A total of 18 professional football players from a club competing in the Turkish Super League participated in the research. Throughout the 2022-2023 season, running symmetry data of the players were recorded using a GPS system. Football players’ running symmetry and performance metrics can be affected by training history, physical adaptation and cultural training differences. Whether there are differences in such parameters between local and foreign football players who have trained in different leagues and with different methodologies has also been included in the study. The study aims to evaluate not only whether running symmetry is a biomechanical parameter but also its effect on performance variables related to injury risk. Also, metrics such as total distance, high intensity running distance, high metabolic power distance, player load, accelerations and decelerations were also recorded throughout the season. Analysis of the data revealed significant differences in running symmetry among players. Statistical differences were found between defender and attacker and midfielder players in terms of player load values. Moreover, a positive correlation was observed between running symmetry and certain performance metrics, suggesting a potential link between running symmetry and sports performance. Consequently, running symmetry measured via GPS technology may serve as a valuable indicator for performance and injury risk among professional soccer players.