Comparison of Cardiovascular Fitness using Two Different Measurement Instruments in U16 Soccer Players

Abstract

This study aims to compare the cardiovascular fitness of U16 soccer players using two measurement instruments: the Multi Fitness Test (MFT) and the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test (YYIR1). The research method used is a descriptive quantitative approach, which allows numerical analysis of participants’ cardiovascular fitness characteristics. The analysis shows that the average MFT score was 44.2957, while the average YYIR1 score was 33.7477, indicating better cardiovascular fitness according to the MFT. In addition, the frequency distribution shows that 97% of participants were in the moderate category according to the MFT, while 93% were in the low category according to the YYIR1. This difference in results can be explained by the characteristics of each test, which measure different aspects of fitness; MFT focuses more on general endurance, while YYIR1 emphasizes aerobic capacity and recovery after intense activity. These findings highlight the importance of using multiple measurement instruments to evaluate cardiovascular fitness in young athletes. Thus, coaches can design more effective training programs tailored to the needs of U16 soccer players. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the development of more targeted training policies and help improve player performance and competitiveness on the field. This study also emphasizes the need to incorporate cardiovascular training into soccer programs to achieve optimal results.