Abstract
Combined training (CT) may combine strength and endurance training within a given time period, but it can also encompass additional protocols consisting of velocity, balance, or mobility as part of the same intervention. These combined approaches have become more common in soccer. This systematic review was conducted to (1) characterize the training protocols used in CT studies in soccer, (2) summarize the main physiological and physical effects of CT on soccer players, and (3) provide future directions for research. Methods: A systematic review of Cochrane Library, PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The PICOS were defined as follows: P (soccer players of any age or sex); I (CT combining strength and endurance or sprinting or balance or mobility training); C (the control group (whenever applicable), with or without comparative interventions in addition to usual soccer training); O (acute and/or chronic responses: biochemical, physiological and physical); S (must have at least two groups, either randomized or non-randomized). The database search initially identified 79 titles. From those, eight articles were deemed eligible for the systematic review. Three studies analyzed acute responses to concurrent training, while the remaining five analyzed adaptations to CT. In those tested for acute responses, physiological (hormonal) and physical (strength and power external load, internal load) parameters were observed. Adaptations were mainly focused on physical parameters (strength and power, sprints, jumps, repeated sprint ability, aerobic, change-of-direction), with relatively little focus on physiological parameters (muscle architecture). Short-term responses to CT can affect hormonal responses of testosterone after resistance training with internal and external load. In turn, these responses’ effects on strength and power have produced mixed results, as have adaptations. Specifically, strength and hypertrophy are affected to a lesser extent than speed/power movements. Nevertheless, it is preferable to perform CT before endurance exercises since it is a limiting factor for interference. Volume, intensity, rest between sessions, and athletes’ fitness levels and nutrition dictate the degree of interference.
Highlights
Combined training (CT) combines different modalities of training, often involving both strength/resistance and endurance training to improve muscular strength, power, and aerobic capacity and power [1]
The scoping review strategy was conducted according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines [26]
The searching of databases identified a total of 79 titles. These studies were exported to reference manager software (EndNoteTM X9, Clarivate Analytics,6Pohf 4il3adelphia, PA, USA)
Summary
Combined training (CT) combines different modalities of training, often involving both strength/resistance and endurance training to improve muscular strength, power, and aerobic capacity and power [1]. CT can be helpful in specific contexts, such as in intermittent sports that require more than one determinant physical quality to achieve favorable athletic performance [3]. Due to its high metabolic, physiological and physical demands [4,5], soccer is an example of a sport in which CT can be employed [6,7], considering that an optimal strength and endurance program is essential. The game of soccer consists of periods of low- to moderate-intensity, interspaced by high-intensity or all-out efforts [8]. Despite the prevalence of low-intensity actions, high-intensity actions such as accelerations, sprints, jumps, duels, and kicks strongly influence a team’s and player’s performance, considering specific important moments (e.g., counter-attacks, transitions, goals) [10] that can change a game’s outcome [11]
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