09/15/2025
Are You Built Like a Soccer Player? ⚽️ Muscle Imbalances to Watch For
Soccer requires speed, agility, and endurance, but it also imposes unique stresses on the body. Over time, these demands can lead to muscle imbalances, increasing the risk of injury and limiting performance.
Common imbalances observed in soccer players include:
• Thigh dominance: Overused quads & hip flexors causing tightness at the knee and hip
• Weak hips & hamstrings: higher risk of knee injuries, reduced power and increased injury risk while sprinting and cutting
• Tight hip flexors & calves: shorter stride, increased groin & Achilles injury risk
Tyler Kent, a therapist at YKP and the Head Physiotherapist for HFX Wanderers FC, helps players address these imbalances with a targeted approach:
✅ Strength & Activation: Glutes & hamstrings for powerful, injury-resistant movement
✅ Mobility & Flexibility: Hip flexors, quads & calves for better running mechanics
✅ Neuromuscular Control: Correcting patterns for balance, agility & cutting
Research shows that addressing these imbalances can significantly reduce the risk of injury and enhance on-field performance.
At YKP, Tyler uses evidence-based, individualized programs to keep Wanderer FC players strong, balanced, and game-ready.
References:
1. Hewett TE, et al. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2006;36(6):385–401.
2. Croisier JL, et al. Am J Sports Med. 2008;36(4):779–787.
3. Ekstrand J, et al. Br J Sports Med. 2011;45:553–558.
