Journals Information
International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences Vol. 13(5), pp. 1033 - 1041
DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130503
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Shadow Play as a Neuro-Muscular Coordination Tool: Evidence from a Soccer Training Intervention
Krishnakumar S , Ramakrishnan R *
Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (Deemed to be University), Padur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India
ABSTRACT
This study evaluates shadow play, a simulation-based motor imitation technique, for soccer neuromuscular coordination. The need to optimize team sports performance has led researchers and coaches to develop new physical and perceptual-cognitive training methods. Traditional conditioning emphasizes strength and endurance, but neuro-motor synchronization is crucial for quick and accurate game responses. To fill this gap, this research examined how a 12-week shadow play intervention affected agility, reaction time, and hand-eye coordination in NCAA male soccer players. A randomized controlled trial with pretest-posttest design was used to randomly assign 40 Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham students from Amritapuri, Kerala, India, to an experimental (shadow play) or control group. Performance characteristics were assessed using standard tests. Data analysis included paired-sample t-tests for within-group differences, and ANCOVA for between-group comparisons, adjusting for baseline scores. Effect sizes (Cohen's d) and Bayes Factors determined effect magnitude and strength. The experimental group exhibited significant gains in all three measures (p < 0.001), with high effect sizes (d > 1.0) and strong Bayes Factors (BF10 > 70), while the control group showed minimal or non-significant changes. ANCOVA results revealed significant between-group differences in post-test performance after adjusting for pre-test scores (p < 0.01, partial 畏2 > 0.2). These results suggest that shadow play enhances neuromuscular coordination by engaging the mirror neuron system and improving anticipatory and reactive abilities. This study contributes to the emerging field of perceptual-motor training by providing empirical evidence on the practical benefits of shadow play. Overall, shadow play presents a promising, neuroscience-informed approach to athletic development.
KEYWORDS
Shadow Play, Neuromuscular Coordination, Soccer
Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Krishnakumar S , Ramakrishnan R , "Shadow Play as a Neuro-Muscular Coordination Tool: Evidence from a Soccer Training Intervention," International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences, Vol. 13, No. 5, pp. 1033 - 1041, 2025. DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130503.
(b). APA Format:
Krishnakumar S , Ramakrishnan R (2025). Shadow Play as a Neuro-Muscular Coordination Tool: Evidence from a Soccer Training Intervention. International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences, 13(5), 1033 - 1041. DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130503.