Effects of foam rolling on blood lactate concentration in elite futsal players

Abstract

Purpose. Foam rolling (FR) is a known recovery method based on self-myofascial release. Detailed data on FR to reduce muscle fatigue and enhance performance in futsal athletes are still limited. The study aimed to assess whether FR was a suitable recovery method for futsal athletes to enhance performance and reduce their lactic acid concentration. Methods. A total of 30 male futsal athletes participated in this study. They were randomly divided into 2 groups: 15 subjects assigned to the experimental (FR) group practised foam roller exercises, while 15 individuals assigned to the control group were given slow jogging recovery. Both groups completed pre- and post-recovery tests for anaerobic capacity and agility. Blood lactate was measured before the experiment, immediately after the tests, and immediately after recovery. A 2 × 2 repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to calculate each parameter results. Results. In the post-recovery lactate concentration, the independent t-test revealed a significant decrease between pre- and post-test values in the FR group (p = 0.033). Conversely, an increase in lactate between pre- and post-test measurements occurred in the control group (p = 0.058). Furthermore, ANOVA revealed significant time × group interactions (p = 0.002) and a significant main effect for group (p = 0.001). Conclusions. FR after exercise-induced muscle fatigue had an effect on the recovery of elite futsal players by increasing the rate of blood lactate clearance. There was no increase in performance in 20-m sprint or agility (t-test).