EFFECTS OF AN 8 WEEK INCLINE RUNNING AND AGILITY TRAINING PROGRAM IN FEMALE SOCCER PLAYERS

Abstract

We have attempted to describe improvements in young female soccer players. PURPOSE: This study measured the effects of Frappier Acceleration Sports Training Program, an 8-week incline running and agility-training program, in female soccer players. METHODS: 12 female soccer players from the same team (mean ± SD, age: 15.8 ± .41 yr.; height: 143.8 ± 4.4 cm; body mass: 49.5 ± 6.3 kg), trained 3 sessions per week for 1.5 hours per session. The subjects alternated treadmill and agility sessions, completing a total of 12 treadmill and 12 agility training sessions. A typical treadmill session included 15–25 sprints 5–20 seconds in length at varying inclines (0–40%). A typical agility session consisted of footwork drills over formations on the floor, box jumps, and jumping on a specific plyo press designed for jumping. A battery of tests included vertical jump, long jump, 10 yard sprint, 20 yard sprint, counted plyometrics, Wingate power test, VO2 economy, and a Cybex strength test were conducted pre and post training. RESULTS: A multivariate repeated measures ANOVA was used to evaluate differences (p < .05) There was significant improvements in jumping, sprinting, and agility, however, there was insufficient statistical power to determine the effect of economy and strength. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that an 8-week incline running and agility training program may increase jumping sprinting and agility in young female soccer players.