RSA response to preseason training in semiprofessional soccer players

Abstract

This study has investigated the effect of 8 weeks of preseason training on the repeated sprinting ability (RSA) in semiprofessional soccer players (SPSP). An RSA test, consisting of 7 × 30 m sprint with 25 s active rest, was administered to 12 SPSP (age 23 ± 6 years) pre- and post-8 weeks of preseason soccer training. Preseasonal training consisting of aerobic sessions (high-intensity intermittent training) was provided three times a week on alternate days with the strength training sessions (basic and functional strength training) and sprint training drills. Analysis of variance for repeated measures was conducted to assess differences (p < 0.05) in RSA test and fatigue index with time (i.e., pre−post) as within factor. Multivariate analysis of variance, with the seven repeated sprint tests as dependent variables and time (i.e. pre−post) as within factor, was conducted to test differences in sprint performance over the time. The main effect (p < 0.001) was found before (pre-) and after (post-) the preseasonal training in global RSA performance; conversely, no statistical differences were found between fatigue index values. An overall significant effect was found for the seven sprints performed pre- and post. Univariate analysis shows that each sprint time was significantly (p < 0.001) lower in the pre- than in the post-RSA tests. This study provides useful information for the coach to understanding the training process of SPSP and to maximize the best physical condition of the whole team.