Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare how 6 weeks of strength- vs. plyometric training, which were matched upon direction of motion and workload, influences change of direction (COD) performance. Twenty-one experienced male soccer players (age: 22.2 ± 2.7) were pair-matched into a strength- (n = 10) and a plyometric (n = 11) training group. CODs of 45°, 90°, 135° and 180° performed from either a 4 m or 20 m approach distance were compared before and after intervention. Results showed no significant difference between groups. Significant effects were only found within the plyometric training group (−3.2% to −4.6%) in 90°, 135° and 180° CODs from 4 m and a 180° COD from a 20 m approach distance. Individual changes in COD performances showed that with the 4 m approach at least 55% and 81% of the strength and plyometric training group, respectively, improved COD performance, while with the 20 m approach at least 66% of both groups improved performance. This study showed that the plyometric training program can improve most CODs, with angles over 90°, although this is dependent on the distance approaching the COD. Considering the limited time of implementing physical conditioning, in addition to regular soccer practice in most soccer environments, the current plyometric training program can be advantageous in improving CODs at maximal intensity.
Highlights
The development of competitiveness in soccer requires an emphasis on physical conditioning [1].Among multiple determinant factors in soccer, the sport requires substantial effort to improve forceful and explosive movements, known as “maximal actions” [2,3]
This study showed that the plyometric training program can improve most Change of direction (COD), with angles over 90◦, this is dependent on the distance approaching the COD
The training groups were matched in terms of workload as measured by impulse (∆mv = Fdt) based upon the study of Ettema, et al [33] and direction of motion to determine its effect on time to complete different changes of direction tests that were the dependent variable
Summary
Among multiple determinant factors in soccer, the sport requires substantial effort to improve forceful and explosive movements, known as “maximal actions” [2,3]. Sheppard and Young [5] defined it as a pre-planned rapid whole-body movement with changes in velocity and direction. Change of direction (COD) is referred to as agility when the movement is unanticipated and involves games-specific perceptual and decision-making components [6]. It was shown that agility is a discriminating factor between higher and lower levels of play in sports, while the differences are less substantial regarding COD [7,8]. There will occur situations in games where CODs are pre-defined [9]. As such, training COD speed can increase the chances of evading opponents, creating space and scoring goals [10,11]
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