Performance In Soccer Players Research Articles

Small-sided-games with coaches' verbal encouragement have a positive effect on aerobic performance, mood state, satisfaction and subjective effort in male semi-professional soccer players

The study aimed to examine the impact of high-intensity Small-Sided Games (SSGs) with coaches’ verbal encouragement (VE) on soccer players’ aerobic performance, mood state, satisfaction and subjective effort. Forty-three semi-professional male soccer players were randomly assigned to three distinct groups: a control group (CG, n = 14), an experimental group with verbal encouragement (EGVE, n = 14), and an experimental group without verbal encouragement (EGNE, n = 15). Participants performed the VAMEVAL aerobic test, Total-Mood-Disorder (TMD), and the Satisfaction Scale for Athletes (SSA) tests before and following the 6-week SGGs program that included ten training sessions. Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) was collected 5-minutes post-training session. The SGGs program with coaches’ VE showed a significant improvement in maximal aerobic velocity (MAV) and TMD scores (p < 0.05). Except for the SSA scores (p = 0.268), the percentage of change was higher for MAV (p = 0.001; d: 1.36–1.48 (large)) and TMD scores (p = 0.001; d: 1.45–1.48 (large)) in the EGVE group when compared with the other groups (i.e., EGNE and CG). Overall, RPE scores were significantly higher (p ˂ 0.05; d: 0.99–5.00 (large)) in the EGVE group than other groups. The present study highlights the positive effects of integrating SSGs with coaches VE to improve aerobic performance and mental well-being of semi-professional soccer players. Nevertheless, notably the SSA did not exhibit a statistically significant difference. Furthermore, the experimental EGVE group reported elevated RPE, potentially suggesting that SSGs may entail greater physical and mental challenges, yet may yield more sport-specific outcomes for soccer players.

Effects of linear and change of direction high-intensity interval training on physical performance of elite female soccer players

Effects of linear and change of direction high-intensity interval training on physical performance of elite female soccer players

Do small-sided games prepare players for the worst-case scenarios of match play in elite young soccer players?

The aim of the study was to determine whether the physical performance of young soccer player during various small sided games (SSGs) underloads, replicates or overloads the requirements of the worst-case scenarios (WCS) during match play. A total of 521 SSGs' individual observations and 15 different formats of SSGs with different areas per player (ApP) (ApP100: < 100; ApP200: ranged from 101 to 200; ApP300: > 201, all in m2 · player-1) were taken into consideration. Whole (90-min average; OM) and 15-, 5- and 1-min worst-case scenarios (WCS15, WCS5 and WCS1, respectively) were analysed. Total distance covered relative (m · min-1) (TDCR), high-speed distance relative (m · min-1) (HSDR), very high-speed distance relative (m · min-1) (VHSDR) and sprint distance relative (m · min-1) (SDR), player load relative (PLR) and both total (ACCR) and high intensity relative accelerations (n · min-1) (ACCHR) were collected. All external load measures analysed were significantly higher in WCS1 compared to WCS of longer duration and SSGs with different ApP (p < 0.001). The analysis demonstrated interactions between game type and player positions (p < 0.001) for TDCR, VHSDR, PLR and ACCHR. The SSG formats did not sufficiently stimulate the WCS for locomotor demands (VHSDR and SDR). SSGs played on an ApP100 overestimated the mechanical values compared to WCS15 and WCS5. The analysed SSG formats did not sufficiently stimulate players to cope with all external load demands that occurred during WCS1. This study provides useful information for practitioners on the heightened impact of different SSG formats on external load in relation to the WCS of competitive match play.

Methodological Rigor in Reference Chart Development: A Comment on "Normative Reference Centiles for Sprint Performance in High-Level Youth Soccer Players: The Need to Consider Biological Maturity".

Methodological Rigor in Reference Chart Development: A Comment on "Normative Reference Centiles for Sprint Performance in High-Level Youth Soccer Players: The Need to Consider Biological Maturity".

Impaired pre-competition wellbeing measures can negatively impact running performance in developmental youth female soccer players.

This study aimed to determine the association between pre-competition perceived player wellbeing measures and subsequent relative and peak running performance of developmental youth female soccer players (n = 15, age: 16 ± 1 years). Total distance (TD), high-speed (> 3.5 m/s) (HSRD) and very high-speed (> 5.3 m/s) running (VHSRD) were expressed using 1-, 2- and 5-minute epochs and relative (per minute) calculations. Fatigue, sleep quality, upper and lower-body muscle soreness, stress, and mood wellbeing measures were collected via a self-reported questionnaire (1-5 Likert scale). Menstrual cycle phase was collected via a calendar-based countback method. Results demonstrated that reductions in stress was associated with decreased relative and peak TD in all epochs (p = 0.008-0.040), relative and peak HSRD (p = 0.006-0.039) in 2- and 5-minute epochs as well as VHSRD in 2-minute epochs (p = 0.026). For example, a one-point reduction of 'normal' to 'relaxed' is associated with a decrease of 7 m/min in peak TD for 1-minute epochs. One-point increase in fatigue (e.g., 'normal' to 'more tired than normal') displayed a decrease of 7 m/min peak TD for 2-minute (p = 0.048) and 9 m/min for 5-minute (p = 0.007) rolling epochs. Likewise, one-point increase in lower-body muscle-soreness (e.g., 'normal' to 'increase in soreness/tightness') was associated with a reduction of 6 m/min peak VHSRD for 1-minute epochs (p = 0.034). Results suggest that perceived player wellbeing can influence running performance. However, the magnitude of the change in player wellbeing should be considered in a practical sense.

Normative Reference Centiles for Sprint Performance in High-Level Youth Soccer Players: The Need to Consider Biological Maturity.

To compute reference centiles for 5- and 30-m sprint times relative to chronological and skeletal age in youth soccer players. Subsequently, to compare individual's sprint performance scores derived from the chronological and skeletal age reference centiles. Sprint times were collected for a sample of male U11 to U19 soccer players (n = 1745 data points). Skeletal age data were available for a subsample (n = 776 data points). Reference centiles were fitted using generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape. Individual z scores relative to chronological and skeletal age reference centiles were computed and compared for each maturity group (late, on-time, early, and very early) using standardized mean differences (SMD). Reference centiles for chronological age increased more rapidly between 10.5 and 15.5years, while reference centiles for skeletal age increased more rapidly between 13.0 and 16.5years. Differences in chronological and skeletal z scores for very early (SMD: -0.73 to -0.43) and late (SMD: 0.58 to 1.29) maturing players were small to large, while differences for early (SMD: -0.30 to -0.19) and on-time (SMD: 0.16 to 0.28) were trivial to small. Reference centiles provide a valuable tool to assist the evaluation of sprint performance in relation to chronological and skeletal age for talent identification purposes in youth soccer players.

Match running performance is similar in lower and higher competitive standards of Spanish professional soccer accounting for effective playing time.

This study aimed to compare match running performance of players in the top two competitive standards of Spanish professional soccer, accounting for effective playing time (the duration of play after subtracting the game interruptions). A total of 2,784 match observations from 44 teams competing in the Spanish First Division (LaLiga Santander) and the Second Division (LaLiga Smartbank) were undertaken during two consecutive seasons (from 2021/22 to 2022/23). Total distance (TD), medium-speed running (MSR, distance 14.1-21 km · h-1), high-speed running (HSR, > 21 km · h-1), very high-speed running (VHSR, 21.1-24 km · h-1) and sprinting speed running distance (Sprint, > 24 km · h-1) were analyzed using a computerized tracking system (TRACAB, Chyronhego, New York, NY). These physical performance variables were calculated for both total and effective playing time. The main results showed that the mean effective playing time was significantly higher in matches of the First Division than in the Second Division (p < .01). In contrast to those observed when total playing time was considered, there were no significant differences (p > .05) between both competitive standards on medium speed running (MSR), high speed running (HSR), very high-speed running (VHSR), and sprint distances when the effective playing time was considered. Such findings demonstrate that contrary to previous research match running performance of players was similar in lower and higher competitive standards. Thus, effective playing time should be taken into account when interpreting the match running performance of professional soccer players.

A multi-criteria system for performance assessment and support decision-making based on the example of Premier League top football strikers

The effective management of sports teams plays a pivotal role in achieving substantial success. In this pursuit, an increasing number of teams are resorting to information systems to enhance decision-making processes. These systems ensure the implementation of well-informed decisions, thereby contributing additional insights into training management. Through their assistance, it becomes feasible to optimize both player potential and overall team performance. In this paper, we propose a decision system rooted in the Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) approach, complemented by sensitivity analysis, to assess the performance of soccer players. The evaluation focused on football players in the forward position in the Premier League during the seasons 2015-2021. Subsequently, a sensitivity analysis of the results was conducted to delineate key elements in the game that significantly influence performance quality. Based on these findings, adjustments to a player's training plan can be made, targeting specific aspects of the game to enhance the player's potential. The study's results underscore that, with appropriate enhancements to players' performance, they can achieve markedly superior ratings compared to their counterparts.

Acute effect of ischemic preconditioning on physical performance and heart rate of young Soccer players during Soccer Match

Acute effect of ischemic preconditioning on physical performance and heart rate of young Soccer players during Soccer Match

The Effect of Integrative Training Program on Youth Soccer Players’ Power Indexes

Integrative neuromuscular training (INT) is commonly employed for preventing injuries, yet there is a scarcity of studies examining its impact on the physical capabilities of young athletes. This study sought to explore the influence of a brief, in-season INT intervention on the performance of adolescent soccer players. The participants included thirty-one U15 (under 15 years old) soccer players who were randomly assigned to either the control group (CG) (engaged solely in soccer training, n = 14, 14.6 ± 0.6 years) or the exercise group (EG) (where INT was incorporated into traditional soccer training, n = 17, 14.1 ± 0.6 years). Early or late maturers were excluded from the study. The INT program lasted for 5 weeks (two sessions per week) and mainly included single-leg exercises. At the commencement and conclusion of the intervention program, measurements were taken for acceleration (10 m), speed (30 m), jumping ability (squat jump, SJ, and countermovement jump, CMJ), and change of direction ability (COD) (Illinois agility test). The data analysis employed a two-way repeated-measures ANOVA. The INT program resulted in enhanced performance for the EG in SJ (28.4–32.3, p &lt; 0.001, η2 = 0.463), CMJ (30.6–35.3, p &lt; 0.001, η2 = 0.426), and COD ability (18.11–17.64, p = 0.003, η2 = 0.545). No changes in performance were observed in the CG. The results suggest that the addition of a short-duration in-season INT program in U15 soccer players can induce positive adaptations in their performance.

Effects of Two Different Low-Volume Resistance Training Programs Applied During the Off-Season Period on the Speed-Power Performance of Elite Youth Soccer Players.

Loturco, I, Nunes, RFH, Lampert, RR, Silva, RLP, Hespanhol, JE, Novack, LF, Conde, JHS, Pereira, LA, and McGuigan, MR. Effects of two different low-volume resistance training programs applied during the off-season period on the speed-power performance of elite youth soccer players. . J Strength Cond Res 38(3): 571-576, 2024-The aim of this study was to analyze the changes in the speed-power performance of elite youth soccer players submitted to 2 different low-volume resistance training programs during the off-season period. Twenty under-17 players were randomly allocated to "traditional nonballistic" or "ballistic training" groups. Countermovement jump (CMJ), 20-m sprinting speed, and half-squat (HS) power tests were performed after the final match of the season (pretesting session) and at the beginning of the subsequent season (post-testing session), after 4 weeks of detraining. Between-group differences were assessed using a 2-way ANOVA with repeated measures followed by the Tukey's post hoc test. Performance variations were individually analyzed with the use of the "true changes" calculation. At post-tests, CMJ height and HS power remained unchanged ( p > 0.05) but similar and significant improvements in sprint speed were observed in both groups ( p < 0.05). However, notably, a larger number of players in the ballistic group exhibited "true changes" in HS power (i.e., 55 vs. 33%, compared with the traditional group, respectively). In conclusion, either low-volume ballistic or traditional resistance training schemes were able to increase sprint speed and maintain power output during a short interseason break in youth soccer players. Despite this apparent similarity, at the individual level, ballistic movements were more efficient at improving lower-body power. Practitioners can use the strategies described here to improve the sprint and power performance of soccer players during short periods of soccer-specific training cessation.

Match-play, training workloads and sensorimotor and neuromuscular performance of elite young soccer players

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess sensorimotor and neuromuscular performance capabilities over an in-season microcycle in early-career professional soccer players and to examine the relationship with training and match-play workload. Methods: Sensorimotor and neuromuscular performance capabilities (isometric knee extensor: force replication error, peak force, electromechanical delay, rate of force development) of 12 professional soccer players were assessed over a 7-day period. Training and match-play workload was also recorded over the same period for each player (high-intensity running distance). Fluctuations in sensorimotor and neuromuscular performance and workload variables were analysed. Results: There was evidence of fluctuations in sensorimotor and neuromuscular performance capability over the microcycle that reached statistical (p &lt; .005) and practical (18.1% [baseline-to-peak]) significance alongside heterogeneity in training and match workload (264% [coefficient of variation], p &lt; .0005). Some temporal congruence among fluctuating patterns of intra-microcycle training and match-play load and concomitant electromechanical delay performance was noted (p &lt; .005). Asynchronous responses were observed for peak force, but rate of force development and force replication error capabilities were unchanged during the microcycle. Conclusion: While some neuromuscular performance capabilities fluctuate over an in-season microcycle and are influenced partially by high-intensity running workload, sensorimotor performance capabilities were unchanged during the microcycle.

A ANTROPOMETRIA ESTÁ RELACIONADA ÀS HABILIDADES MOTORAS E FUTEBOLÍSTICAS EM JOGADORES SUB-13?

Introduction: Anthropometric profile of soccer players is known to have a strong effect on performance. However, there are limited studies in the literature as to which component of anthropometric profile has the greatest impact on performance among youth soccer players. Objectives: The aim of the study was to investigate body composition’s relationship with biomotor abilities and soccer specific skills in U13 soccer players. Methods: 84 soccer players participated to the study. Body composition parameters, subcutaneous fat tissue, vertical jump, horizontal jump, sprint performance, agility, balance and soccer skills of soccer players were evaluated. Results: Balance, sprint performance, agility and vertical and horizontal jump performances were negatively correlated with body fat percentage (p&lt;0.05). Agility, vertical and horizontal jumps were negatively correlated with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (p&lt;0.05). Sprint time was positively correlated with waist circumference (p&lt;0.05). Positive correlation was found between body fat percentage and dribbling time (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Waist circumference and body fat percentage may serve as a better predictor on performance compared to BMI and FFM in U13 soccer players. Therefore, coaches of youth soccer players should adopt a multidisciplinary approach and monitor body fat percentage to improve their players’ biomotor abilities and soccer skills.

Change of Direction Performance in Soccer Players: Comparison Based on Horizontal Force–Velocity Profile

Background: The study aimed to analyze the relationship between the mechanical parameters of the horizontal force–velocity profile (Hzt FV profile) and performance over two different change of direction (COD) protocols (505test and modified 505test [M505test]) to assess the influence of mechanical parameters of Hzt FV profile on COD deficit (CODD) in soccer players among different categories. Methods: Seventy-seven soccer players, divided into playing levels, participated in the following assessments: Hzt FV profile, 505test and M505test. Spearman correlation coefficient (rs [p &lt; 0.05]) and a linear regression model were used to determine the relationship between COD performance and mechanical parameters of sprint (maximum power output [Pmax], maximum horizontal force production [F0] and maximum velocity application [V0]). Results: Results suggest that: (1) V0 is highly correlated with 505test [Professional (rs = −0.682, p &lt; 0.01); Amateurs (rs = −0.721, p &lt; 0.01); U18DH (rs = −0.736, p &lt; 0.01); U18LN (rs = −0.569, p &lt; 0.01)]; (2) F0 is strongly correlated to M505test F0—M505test [Professional (rs = −0.468, p &lt; 0.05); Amateurs (rs = −0.690, p &lt; 0.01); U18DH (rs = −0.642, p &lt; 0.01); U18LN (rs = −0.658, p &lt; 0.01)]; and (3) significant differences were observed in Professionals vs. U18LN comparison [505test (U = −37.7, p = 0.000); M505test (U = −26.9, p = 0.000)]. Conclusions: A significant relationship exists between strength levels and COD performance depending on task demands. Horizontal force (F0) is crucial in statics COD, while high-speed force production (V0) is decisive in dynamics COD. Finally, higher-level players demonstrate greater efficiency in COD.

Match performance of elite soccer players in ratio to contextual variables and game structure in the attack and defense phases using InStat Kinematic System. A longitudinal study

The practical value of using the wearable devices for monitoring running performance and contextual variables is that well-chosen performance indicators can help coaches identify good and bad performances of individuals or teams. The aim of the article was to investigate running trends in the ratio to the structure of the game in the offensive and defensive phases of professional soccer players on home and away pitches in Montenegro in three competitive matches of different seasons. The research included 82 professional soccer players. The first sub-sample included 44 professional soccer players, height 185.89 ± 6.29 cm, mass 81.06 ± 5.47 kg, BMI 23.47 ± 0.96 kg/m2, age 28.86 ± 3.85 years. The second sub-sample includes 38 professional football players, height 181.88 ± 6.35 cm, mass 77.28 ± 6.78 kg, BMI 23.32 ± 1.08 kg/m2, age 29.43 ± 5.68 years old. The InStat kinematic system recorded field players using six cameras placed around the perimeter of the field at a minimum height of 12 m, 25 frames per second. Our study indicated some contrasting findings. Statistically significant differences were obtained in all three years in running performance and contextual variables. Our results indicate a decreasing trend in high speed runs distance both in the attack phase and in the defense phase for both teams. The conclusion of this study provided information on performance in soccer, which could consequently improve the applicability of running performance in training and competitions Keywords: performance analysis, match location, sprint, run distance, kinematic monitoring.

How effective are external cues and analogies in enhancing sprint and jump performance in academy soccer players?

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effect of external (EC) and internal coaching cues (IC), analogies with a directional component (ADC) on sprint (20 m) and vertical jump performance in academy soccer players (n = 20). A repeated-measures analysis, with post-hoc comparisons, was used to identify any differences between these cues and a neutral (control) cue. Significant differences were found for both sprint (p < 0.001) and jump (p = 0.022) comparisons among cue types. In post-hoc analyses for the 20 m sprint, significant differences were observed between the EC and the IC, favouring the EC (p < 0.01, ES = 1.27 [CI: 0.24, 2.30]), and “away” ADC and the IC, favouring the “away” ADC (p < 0.01, ES = 1.21 [CI: 0.19, 2.22]). No other cues showed significant differences. For vertical jump, there was just one significant difference between comparisons, that being for the “away” ADC vs. the neutral cue, favouring the latter (p = 0.023, ES = 0.4 [CI: −0.04 to 0.84]). It appears that ECs and ADCs are most effective when coaching sprinting performance in academy soccer players. However, simply encouraging maximal effort from a youth athlete also appears to be a reasonable cueing strategy to drive performance in youth athletes.

Determinants of Performance in Professional Soccer Players at 2 and 5 Years After ACL Reconstruction

Background: A number of studies have investigated return to play after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) in professional soccer players, but it is unclear which factors are associated with a return to the preinjury performance and ability to play over time. Purpose: To identify factors that contribute to a professional soccer player's return to preinjury performance after ACLR, as well as to report their playing performance at 2 and 5 years after ACLR compared with their preinjury performance. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: A consecutive cohort of professional soccer players undergoing primary ACLR were analyzed between 2005 and 2019. A minimum 2-year follow-up was required. The effect of patient, surgical, and postoperative factors on performance rates, defined as a combination of league level and playing time, was evaluated with univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: A total of 200 male professional soccer players were included. When combining league level and playing time, 30% of athletes returned to their preinjury performance at 2 years and 22% at 5 years. However, 53% of athletes returned to their preinjury performance for at least 1 season by year 5. At 2 years, a chondral lesion of grade 3 or 4 decreased the odds of return to preinjury performance (odds ratio [OR], 0.37; P = .010). Athletes receiving an ACLR with the addition of a lateral extra-articular tenodesis procedure were 2.42 times more likely to return to preinjury performance at 2 years than athletes with ACLR alone (P = .004). By 5 years after ACLR, athletes aged ≥25 years at the time of reconstruction were 3 times less likely to be performing at their preinjury performance (OR, 0.32; P < .001), and those with a grade ≥3 chondral lesion were >2 times less likely to be performing at their preinjury performance (OR, 0.43; P = .033). Conclusion: The presence of >50% thickness chondral pathology, ACLR without lateral extra-articular tenodesis, and age >25 years at the time of surgery were all significant risk factors of worse performance rates after ACLR. Significant decreases in performance rates were noted at 2 and 5 years postoperatively.

Examining the Link between Isokinetic Strength Metrics and Ball Speed in Women’s Soccer

The shot performance of female soccer players is one of the most critical factors in winning a soccer match. It is essential to thoroughly clarify the kinetic factors that can improve shot performance. This study explores the connections between ball velocity post-shooting and isokinetic knee extension (EXT) and flexion (FLX) strength performances among female soccer players. Thirteen voluntary players from professional leagues took part in the research study. The study analyzed the average and peak concentric (Con) and eccentric (Ecc) torques, isometric (Iso) strength performances at angular velocities of 60°/s, 180°/s and 300°/s, the time required to reach peak torque, and ball velocities during shooting. The relationships among these variables were investigated separately for the dominant (D) and non-dominant (ND) legs. The analysis unveiled significant correlations between ball velocities and D-EXT (Absolute) peak torque at an angular velocity of 60°/s (r = 0.597; p &lt; 0.05), D-%IPS (r = −0.580; p &lt; 0.05), and ND-FLX (Absolute) average torque (r = 0.559; p &lt; 0.05). Moreover, notable associations were observed between ball velocities and ND-EXT (Absolute) (r = 0.581; p &lt; 0.05), as well as ND-FLX (Absolute) (r = 0.602; p &lt; 0.05) average torques at an angular velocity of 180°/s. Additionally, significant relationships were found between ball velocities and peak (r = 0.664; p = 0.013) and average (r = 0.660; p = 0.014) torques generated during ND-EXT (Absolute) at an angular velocity of 300°/s. However, the connections between the time to reach peak torque, eccentric and isometric forces, and ball velocities were not statistically significant (p &gt; 0.05). The results of the study indicate that enhancing concentric isokinetic strength development at 60°/s, 180°/s, and 300°/s angular velocities, along with balanced strengthening of the ND extremity, holds paramount importance in elevating shot performance among female soccer players, particularly in the context of rapid shot strategies.

Relationship Between Cognitive Functions and Agility Performance in Elite Young Male Soccer Players

Abstract Matlák, J, Fridvalszki, M, Kóródi, V, Szamosszegi, G, Pólyán, E, Kovács, B, Kolozs, B, Langmár, G, and Rácz, L. Relationship between cognitive functions and agility performance in elite, young, male soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 38(1): 116–122, 2024—The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between agility performance and cognitive functions measured under laboratory conditions among elite young soccer players. Twenty-five, elite, young, male soccer players (12.3 ± 0.4 years, 155.4 ± 7.6 cm, 42.6 ± 6.9 kg) completed a battery of field tests, including 5-, 10-, 20-m sprints, change of direction speed (CODS), standing long jump, and an agility test based on a human stimulus. Subjects also completed choice reaction (RT, S3) and reactive stress tolerance (DT, S1) tests on the Vienna Test System. There was a moderate significant relationship (p &lt; 0.05) found between mean reaction time and mean motor time during the choice reaction task and decision time in the agility test. Decision time also showed a large significant correlation (p &lt; 0.05) with total time in the agility test. No significant correlation was found between total time in the agility test and variables measured during RT and DT tests. No significant correlations were found between agility test results and results from straight line sprints, CODS, and standing long jump tests. The results of this study suggest that choice reaction time is related to decision-making speed during the agility task used in this study and can have an indirect effect on agility performance in elite young soccer players. Further studies assessing the relationship between different cognitive functions and agility performance in different sports and age categories could help in the identification of determinant cognitive functions in perceptual and decision-making factors of agility.

Internal and external load during on-field training drills with an aim of improving the physical performance of players in professional soccer: a retrospective observational study.

Extensive research has led to evidence-based methodological recommendations for appropriate prescription and implementation of different training drills to improve the physical performance of professional soccer players, while also pointing out limitations of drills. Less is known about the current methods used in an ecological context and the extent to which evidence-based considerations are applied. Knowledge of current practices might also enable to identify pitfalls in successful implementation and/or deficiencies in the communication of scientific knowledge. Thus, the aim of this study was to quantify and compare the load that players experience in an ecological context during drills that are frequently used, and in which there is an intention to improve the players' physical capacities. Therefore, a retrospective observational cohort study was conducted over a 14-month period, analyzing 9 load measures during training drills of 39 players of a team competing in the highest Swiss league. The load experienced by players was statistically significant different between the assessed drill categories for each load measure (all p < .001). This indicates different drills provide different stimuli. HIIT drills proved to be a more powerful tool of getting players to cover distances at high-speed and to spend time at an intensity ≥90% HRmax compared to sided games. The sprint distance of players was very low in all sided games and in most cases also in HIIT drills, in the latter the players also hardly performed any deceleration. In small goal-oriented sided games, players covered a greater distance per minute when outside floaters were present. Particularly regarding an improvement of the players' aerobic capacity, the present data emphasize the relevance for coaches to ensure an appropriate exposure. In general, the importance of individual load management in professional soccer is highlighted.