Effects of a small-sided game-based training program on repeated sprint and change of direction abilities in recreationally-trained soccer players

Abstract

To examine the effects of 6-week periodized small-sided game (SSG) training intervention on change of direction [COD], sprint and repeated sprint ability [RSA] in recreational male soccer players. Twenty-three young soccer players (age: 20.86 years) were randomized in a control group (N.=11) and an experimental group (N.=12). The SSG program was included in the experimental group's training sessions. The players completed two variations of a SSG (i.e. 2 vs. 2 and 4 vs. 4 players) during intervention. To examine the changes in physical performance after the 6-week periodized SSG training intervention, all players were tested 6 weeks apart (i.e. pre-test and post-test) in sprint, COD Ability Test, and RSA Shuttle Test. A 2x2 ANOVA showed that 6-week SSG training intervention induced significant improvements (P<0.05, ES>0.7) in COD Ability Test, and variables related to both Sprint Test and RSA in the experimental group, whereas the control group remained unchanged (P≥0.05, ES<0.4). Regarding the response to the RSA Test - in terms of BLa, both the experimental group (P=0.001, ES=1.270) and the control group (P=0.010, ES=0.939) increased BLa after the intervention. The current study indicates that a 6-week SSG-based training program could improve decisive parameters in performance in soccer, such as COD, RSA and sprint in recreationally trained soccer players.