Young Soccer Players Research Articles

Association Between Spinal Curvature and Mobility and Balance Abilities in Young Soccer Players.

Understanding the relationship between balance, spinal curvature, and mobility in young soccer players is important for optimizing performance and preventing injuries. The aim was to examine the association between balance abilities and spinal curvature and mobility in young soccer players. Forty-two male elite soccer players (mean age: 16.38 ± 1.10 years, mean Body Mass Index: 20.80 ± 1.34kg/m2, years of experience: 6.4 ± 1.6) were enrolled. Balance assessments were performed using Computerized Posturography (ProKin 252, Tecnobody, Dalmine, Italy). Static balance assessments were performed in a unipedal and bipedal stance either with the eyes open or closed. Limits of Stability (LOS) were tested to measure dynamic balance. Spinal curvature, inclination, and mobility were assessed using HocomaValedo® Shape (Idiag, Fehraltorf, Switzerland). There was a significant correlation between thoracic kyphosis angle and LOS and bipedal static balance (r = -0.333, r = 0.323; p < .05, respectively). Furthermore, significant moderate correlations were observed between lumbar and thoracic mobility measurements and LOS and static balance parameters on unipedal stance (r = 0.355 to 0.482, p < .05). No correlation was found between spinal curvature and spinal mobility, and other balance parameters (p > .05). There is a significant association between spinal curvatures, spinal mobility, and balance abilities in young soccer players. Sports professionals should consider this relationship as it may reflect the response of the postural control system to altered spinal curvature and mobility in young soccer players within the maturation period.

Profiling of Physical Qualities of Highly Trained Portuguese Youth Soccer Players

Background: A comprehensive understanding of variations in physical attributes both between and within young players is crucial for accurately identifying talent based on physical performance. This study aimed to compare maximum strength, jump, and sprint test results among young soccer players from different age categories and playing positions. Secondarily, this study aimed to analyze the association between maximum strength, jump, and sprint performances. Methods: A total of 103 players were categorized as U23, U19, U17, and U16. The players were placed into these age categories based on their football abilities. All participants completed standardized warm-ups, and testing procedures followed protocols established in previous studies. Results: Significant differences were found between age categories regarding the Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull (p &lt; 0.001; η2p = 0.33), Countermovement Jump (CMJ) (p &lt; 0.001; η2p = 0.50), Squat Jump (SJ) (p &lt; 0.001; η2p = 0.29), and sprint (p &lt; 0.001; n2p = 0.30) tests. No significant differences were detected in Broad Jump results between age categories. Moreover, no significant differences were observed in any physical capacities between playing positions. Furthermore, significant moderate-to-strong correlations (r = 0.30–0.86) were observed between all physical tests. Conclusions: Age categories can distinguish soccer players’ performance in different physical tests while no differences were observed between playing positions. Similar magnitude correlations were observed across all tests with only the CMJ and SJ being strongly correlated. Coaches and strength and conditioning professionals should apply a variety of tests to assess different physical qualities since they have different patterns between age categories.

Using Small-Sided Games or Their Combination with Speed Endurance Training: Which Is More Effective for Improving Aerobic Capacity in Young Amateur League Soccer Players?

Objectives. This study aimed to analyze the differences in the effects of Small-Sided Games (SSG) and a combination of Small-Sided Games with Speed Endurance Training (SSG+SET) on the aerobic capacity of young amateur league soccer players, as measured by total distance coverage and VO2max. Materials and methods. A total of 36 young amateur league soccer players were selected as samples and divided into two groups using the matching-group technique. The average sample characteristics were 20.08 ± 0.97 years of age, 170.47 ± 4.77 cm in height, 62.98 ± 5.89 kg in weight, and a body mass index of 20.08 ± 0.97 kg/m². Both groups underwent 12 training sessions over four weeks, with a frequency of three sessions per week. Aerobic capacity was measured using the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 to evaluate total distance coverage and VO2max before and after the intervention. Results. Both training methods had a positive impact on improving aerobic capacity. However, the group undergoing the SSG+SET combination showed significantly greater improvements compared to the SSG-only group (p &lt; 0.05). The SSG+SET group demonstrated a larger increase in total distance coverage and higher VO2max values, reflecting physiological adaptations such as improved oxygen utilization efficiency and cardiovascular function. Conclusions. The findings indicate that the combination of Small-Sided Games and Speed Endurance Training is more effective in enhancing the aerobic capacity of young amateur league soccer players, particularly in terms of total distance coverage and VO2max. This method offers a comprehensive approach to improving physical fitness while simultaneously supporting the development of technical and tactical skills through specific game simulations.

Differences in Soccer Matches' Movement Patterns between Two Young Age Groups Players: Under-17 and Under-19

One of the most important issues in soccer training is the analysis and optimization of the players’ physiological characteristics. This study examines movement characteristics of soccer players in an under-17 (U17, n=20) and under-19 (U19, n=23) age groups. Participants played for over 80 minutes in 13 league matches. Using GPS devices, we measured movement patterns, including total distance (TD), with speeds being classified into five categories: (1) walking, 0–3.6 km/h; (2) jogging, 3.6–10.8 km/h; (3) moderate running, 10.8–18.0 km/h; (4) fast running, 18.0–25.0 km/h; and (5) sprinting, &gt;25.0 km/h. High-speed running (HSR) included speed categories 4 and 5. Maximum sprint speed (Max Speed) and the number of accelerations (ACC) and decelerations (DEC) were also recorded. Statistical analysis included independent T-test samples and ANOVA and showed higher measurements in the distance covered in four of the five categories (1, 2, 4, and 5), as well as increased TD, HSR and Max Speed, and higher ACC and DEC among the U19 players compared to the U17 players. These findings emphasize the need for age-specific fitness characteristics training strategies in young soccer players particularly during the transition of age group categories.

Characteristics of Plantar Pressure Distribution During Running and Musculoskeletal Factors Associated With Jones Fracture in Young Female Soccer Players: A Prospective Study.

Jones fracture of the fifth metatarsal is a common overuse injury in soccer players and may cause long-term absence from training. Despite the increasing population of female soccer players, the incidence and risk factors of Jones fracture, including plantar pressure characteristics, among these players have not been clarified. To investigate the association between Jones fracture and plantar pressure distribution during running and musculoskeletal characteristics in young female soccer players. Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. A cohort of female soccer players who played competitively in high school and college teams, aged 15 to 21 years, were followed over a year. All players underwent physical examination at baseline, which included anthropometric measurements, body composition evaluation, joint laxity, double- and single-leg balance measurements, lower limb muscle flexibility, and hip internal rotation angle, foot arch height ratio, and dynamic foot pressure measurements during running. Foot pressure distribution was analyzed by measuring the sum and maximal pressure of 10 areas, and the loading rates of the lateral toes, lateral metatarsal, lateral forefoot, forefoot/rearfoot ratio, and lateral/medial ratio were defined. All these measurements were compared between players who had Jones fracture (Jones group) and players without injuries (control [Con] group). A total of 105 players were included, and 4 players (6 feet) were included in the Jones group. Hamstring flexibility was significantly lower in the Jones group than in the Con group. The Jones group presented a higher forefoot/rearfoot ratio of the maximal pressures, lower sum pressure in the lateral heel, higher maximal pressure in the lateral toes, and higher maximal pressure in the first to third metatarsals than the Con group. No significant differences were found between the 2 groups regarding other factors. Foot plantar pressure with a higher forefoot/rearfoot ratio, less loading on the heel, and higher pressure on the lateral toes and medial metatarsals during running were associated with Jones fracture in female soccer players. Lower hamstring flexibility was identified as a risk factor for Jones fracture, which has not been reported in male soccer players.

High-Load Strength Training Reduces Injury Incidence and Injury Burden and Improves Physical Fitness in Young Highly Trained Soccer Players.

There is little available information on the reduction of injury incidence and injury burden after strength training programs. This study aimed to analyze the effects of a 12-week high-load strength training program on injury incidence, injury burden, and fitness in young, highly trained, soccer players. It was hypothesized that well-targeted high-load training focused on the gluteal and hamstring musculature could aid in injury prevention and increase physical fitness. A randomized controlled trial design was applied, which followed the CONSORT Statement. Level 2. Twenty players were assigned randomly to the experimental group (EG, n = 10 players), who performed a high-load strength training program, or to the control group (CG, n = 10 players), who performed only their usual soccer training. Injury incidence (injuries per 1000 hours exposure) and injury burden (days of absence per 1000 hours exposure) were recorded during the intervention, as well as the physical fitness attributes before and after the training program. A significant (P < 0.05) lower injury incidence was observed in the EG (CG, 11.34 vs EG, 1.31 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure) and a significant (P < 0.001) lower injury burden in the EG (CG, 304.66 versus EG, 19.72 days of absence per 1000 h of exposure). The analysis of covariance model revealed significant between-group differences favoring the EG, showing significantly greater improvements in jumping, change of direction ability, sprinting, and imbalance strength tests (P < 0.001; effect size, 3.02 to -7.23). This study demonstrated the beneficial effects of a 12-week high-load strength training program on injury incidence, injury burden and physical fitness, in highly trained soccer players. This study provides positive information for implementing this type of strength training in the daily training sessions of young soccer players for both performance enhancement and injury prevention.

Effects of a short-term plyometric training on cement and synthetic turf surfaces in young soccer players

Abstract Purpose We investigated the effects of plyometric training on synthetic grass or concrete surfaces on the physical performance of young soccer players. Methods The participants were blocked randomly assigned to a synthetic turf (SYN, n = 9), a concrete surface (CEM, n = 10) or a control group (CON, n = 8). Performance (vertical jump, sprint, and agility) and perceptual measures were performed before and after 4 weeks of plyometric training. Results The within-group effect showed improvements in jump height for CEM, rate of force development during the countermovement jump for SYN, 20-m sprint for CON and CEM, and COD (Change Of Direction) time for all groups (p &lt; 0.05). Significant between-group effects of the training surface were observed only for squat jump height and the ratio between the countermovement jump and squat jump height (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion A short-term plyometric protocol performed on cement or synthetic turf surfaces induced similar jump and sprint performance effects, by not determining specific adaptations in young soccer players.

Dietary intake and training load in youth male soccer players during a microcycle: Analysis of intra-week variation and examination of associations between measures

Purpose: Our study aims to 1) characterize and analyze food intake and typical external load in young soccer players over a normal microcycle; 2) correlate energy and macronutrient intake with external training load parameters. Methods: Eighteen high-level junior male soccer players (17.61 ± 0.49 years old) had their nutritional intake and training load assessed during a typical mid-season competitive week in November 2022, which included two matches and a structured training schedule. Anthropometric measurements, following ISAK methodology, were taken by a certified technician. Dietary intake using self-reported food diaries for all days was analyzed. Players wore a GPS device during training and matches to measure various performance metrics (distance covered, player load, accelerations, decelerations, maximal speed, and metabolic power). Results: The results revealed no significant within-week variations of carbohydrate (p = 0.747), protein (p = 0.199), lipid (p = 0.747), and calorie (p = 0.241) intake. Significant differences were observed between training days on total distance (p = 0.001), total distance standardized to minutes (p &lt; 0.001), player load (p = 0.007), player load standardized to minutes (p &lt; 0.001), and meta energy (p = 0.002). Conclusions: Players maintained a consistent diet throughout the week, while training load measures varied significantly across the same microcycle, indicating a lack of nutritional periodization. This highlights the need for better nutritional strategies to support varying training loads. It is crucial to reflect on the importance of this apparently insufficient intake for the health and performance of young athletes. Future investigations should explore the development of tailored nutritional plans to enhance their overall well-being and athletic performance.

The effect of hypoxic exercises using an altitude training mask on some lung functions after physical exertion for young soccer players

The effect of hypoxic exercises using an altitude training mask on some lung functions after physical exertion for young soccer players

Effects of Neuromuscular Training Applied During Ramadan on Physical Fitness and Injury Prevention in Highly-Trained Male Youth Soccer Players

Abstract Background The intermittent fasting period of Ramadan is associated with reductions in training volumes and intensities to maintain physical fitness levels and reduce injury occurrence. Accordingly, it might be beneficial to include neuromuscular training (NMT) applied during Ramadan to avoid detraining and promote injury prevention in soccer players. This study aimed to analyze NMT effects on physical fitness and injury prevention during the Ramadan fasting period in young soccer players. Methods Forty young highly-trained male soccer players (U17/U19) were randomly assigned to a NMT (n = 20) or a traditional soccer-specific training group (TT, n = 20). NMT was conducted during Ramadan, lasted four weeks, and included two weekly sessions with exercises to promote muscle strength, power (plyometrics), speed, balance. TT contents were similar to the training period before Ramadan and comprised two weekly sessions including endurance and sprint-based exercises. The training volume was similar between groups. Body composition (body fat), linear sprint (5-m, 10-m, 30-m sprint), and change-of-direction (CoD) speed (T-test with and without ball), muscle power (squat [SJ], countermovement jump [CMJ]), peak isokinetic torque of the knee flexors, extensors, and soccer-specific performance (Loughborough soccer passing test [LSPT], Yoyo intermittent test level 1 [YYIRT L1], repeated-shuttle-sprint ability test [RSSA]) were determined before and after the Ramadan period. The overall injury rate per 1000 h of exposure (training, match) was carried out during and after the four-week Ramadan period and until the end of the soccer season (overall 8 weeks). Results No significant between group baseline differences were noted. Group-by-time interactions were significant for most assessed variables (0.001 &lt; p &lt; 0.004, 0.22 &lt; d &lt; 0.76) in favor of NMT. Variations in body mass, body fat, and BMI determined by post-hoc tests indicated significant decreases in NMT but not TT (0.026 &lt; p &lt; 0.047, 0.65 &lt; d &lt; 0.73). Moreover, post-hoc tests showed that NMT provided linear and COD speed improvements, enhanced muscle power (SJ, CMJ) and improved soccer-specific performance (p &lt; 0.001, 0.71 &lt; d &lt; 2.53). Additionally, post-hoc tests revealed significant isokinetic strength increases in favor of NMT for all peak torque variables (0.015 &lt; p &lt; 0.049, 0.64 &lt; d &lt; 0.81). The overall injury rate was significantly lower in NMT (8.00/1000 h exposure) compared to TT (13.33/1000 h exposure) (p = 0.049; d = 0.66). Conclusions Findings suggest that a four-week NMT conducted during Ramadan fasting helped to maintain or even improve measures of physical fitness including isokinetic strength. In addition, significant NMT-related reductions in injury occurrence were noted in highly-trained young male soccer players.

Analysis of Genu Varum in Young Male Professional Soccer Players.

Bowlegs (Genu varum) are well-known leg axis deformities in adult soccer players and are associated with an increased risk of knee osteoarthritis. The time of onset of genu varum is unknown. To analyze the static and dynamic leg axis in young professional soccer players from childhood to adolescence. Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Leg axes of 168 male professional soccer players (336 legs) from 8 age groups (U12-U21) were analyzed. Static and dynamic mechanical femorotibial axis angles (MAAs) were determined using a noninvasive motion analysis system allowing both legs to be evaluated individually. Additionally, the intercondylar and intermalleolar distances were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using a linear mixed model including the variables of age, playing position, shooting leg, and body mass index (BMI). A significant increase in varus alignment for static and dynamic MAA was found with age. Players of the teams U17, U19, and U21 had significantly higher static MAAs (greater varus) compared with the youngest players (U12). The deviation in the dynamic MAA could be observed starting from the U15 onward. In all age groups, the dynamic MAA was significantly lower than the static MAA. No significant association was found for static or dynamic MAA with BMI, playing position, or shooting leg. In this study, the degree of static and dynamic varus alignment was significantly associated with increasing age. On the basis of the study's findings, it is believed that preventive training methods particularly focusing on vulnerable age groups should be tested for efficacy.

Caffeine Effects on Physical Performance and Sport-Specific Skills in Elite Youth Soccer Players: A Randomised Trial Using the Balanced Placebo Design.

The aim of the study was to examine the safety and effects of relatively high caffeine doses on physical performance and sport-specific skills of young elite soccer players. Fifty-four soccer players from an elite Russian soccer academy participated in the blinded randomised placebo-controlled study with a double-blinded and balanced design. Participants were divided into four groups: group 1 CAF/CAF; group 2 CAF/PLA group 3 PLA/PLA and group 4 PLA/CAF. All participants were administered 400 mg of caffeine or the placebo. The data demonstrated that a single 400 mg caffeine administration 60 min before exercise had a positive effect on repeated sprint ability (RSA) test parameters such as fatigue index (for both groups p < 0.001) and percentage decrement score (for both groups p < 0.001). In group 4, statistically significant improvements were also found when performing the fourth and sixth sprint during the RSA test (p = 0.039 and p = 0.005, respectively). Group 1 also showed a statistically significant improvement in dribbling speed performance (p = 0.048). It was demonstrated that the number of adverse events in all four groups was not different (p = 0.56). A single administration of 400 mg of caffeine 60 min prior to maximal intensity physical activity can be considered reasonable and safe for young elite soccer players.

Force-Velocity Profiling among Different Maturational Stages in Young Soccer Players: A Cross-Sectional Study

Speed is a key component of football performance. An individualized approach may be necessary to achieve optimal speed development. Force-velocity profiling breaks down linear sprint performance into force, velocity, and mechanical effectiveness on an individual basis. In young footballers, these factors are related to maturation and have a strong influence on physical performance. The aim of this study is to investigate horizontal force-velocity profiling at different stages of maturation. As an indicator of maturity, the age of peak height velocity (APHV) of 85 young soccer players (age: M = 15.7, ± 1.63 years) was determined using the Mirwald formula. According to temporal distance from their individual estimated APHV, players were divided into four groups (mid-peak-height-velocity (PHV, N = 26); 1-2y-post-PHV (N = 21); 2-3y-post-PHV (N = 21); &gt;3y-post-PHV (N = 17)). 30-meter sprint performance including five split times was measured with timing gates in all athletes. These splits were used to calculate an individual horizontal force-velocity profile with its components maximum theoretical force (FH0), velocity (VH0), and power (Pmax). These profiles also included peak ratio of force (RFmax), actual relationship of maximum force and velocity (FV slope), as well as the theoretically optimal relationship of maximum force/velocity (FVopt). APHV-based group differences were found for FH0, VH0 and Pmax, RFmax, and the difference between FV slope and FVopt. Values of absolute FH0, VH0, RFmax and Pmax were increasing with maturation. In all groups, a lack of velocity in relation to force production of 24% (p &lt; .001, d = 1.15) was detected, with the largest deficit at mid-PHV (M = 35.74 ± 21.73%) and the smallest deficit at &gt;3ypost-PHV (M = 15.90 ± 20.15%). The current finding of a velocity deficit in 30m-sprint performance of young soccer players suggests a need for velocity-oriented training - pronounced around APHV.

Effects of 6-Week Vibration vs. Nonvibration Foam Rolling on Performance-Related Physical Fitness Parameters in Young Male Soccer Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Secer, E and Kaya, DO. Effects of 6-week vibration vs. nonvibration foam rolling on performance-related physical fitness parameters in young male soccer players: A randomized controlled trial. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2024-The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of 6-week vibration foam rolling (VFR) and nonvibration foam rolling (FR) on performance-related physical fitness parameters in young male soccer players. Thirty-six, volunteer, young, male soccer players (mean age: 15.55 ± 0.55 years) were randomly assigned into 3 groups: a VFR group (n = 12), a FR group (n = 12), and a control group (CG) (n = 12). The players in VFR and FR groups performed VFR or FR interventions thrice per week for 6 weeks (3 × 30 seconds for each muscle or body side). Testing measures included reaction time, assessed with the reaction time measuring device; agility, assessed with the t test; sprint, assessed with the 20-m sprint test; and anaerobic power, assessed with the Wingate anaerobic power test. Dominant lower-extremity reaction time improved in the VFR group when compared with the FR group {-1.93 seconds (95% confidence interval [CI]: -3.07 seconds/-0.78 seconds)} and CG [-2.05 seconds (95% CI: -3.43 seconds/-0.67 seconds)]. Agility improved in the VFR and FR groups when compared with the CG [-0.90 seconds (95% CI: -1.26 seconds/-0.53 seconds), -0.53 seconds (95% CI: -0.95 seconds/-0.11 seconds), respectively]. Sprint improved in the VFR and FR groups when compared with the CG [-0.13 seconds (95% CI: -0.18 seconds/-0.07 seconds), -0.14 seconds (95% CI: -0.21 seconds/-0.06 seconds), respectively]. In conclusion, both 6-week VFR and FR increased agility and sprint performances. Vibration foam rolling is more effective than FR for improving lower-extremity reaction time. Vibration foam rolling and FR could be relevant options for strength and conditioning coaches to improve the physical performance of soccer players.

Enhancing change of direction speed in young soccer players through running technique training.

This study explored the impact of running technique training on change of direction (COD) speed in young soccer players across the U11, U13, and U18 age categories. Eighty-nine players participated and were divided into experimental (COD training [CODT]) and control (CON) groups in each category. The CODT group underwent a 4-week training program, conducted twice a week for fifteen minutes before regular training sessions. Pre- and post-testing used the 505 and Pro-Agility (5-10-5) tests. Results indicated significant improvements for CODT U11 players in the 505 Test on the right foot (P=0.04, d=0.48) and the 5-10-5 Test (P<0.001, d=0.86). The U13 CODT players improved in the 5-10-5 Test (P<0.001, d=0.54), as well as the CODT U18 (P=0.001, d=1.04). Significant differences between CODT and CON groups were observed in the U11 category in the 5-10-5 Test. The study concludes that running technique training before regular soccer sessions enhances COD speed, particularly in U11 and U18 players.

No match, more sleep: Greater weekend catch-up sleep in youth soccer players on free weekends.

No match, more sleep: Greater weekend catch-up sleep in youth soccer players on free weekends.

Effect of 5-Week Plyometric Training on Sand Versus Grass on Jumping and Sprinting Performance in Under-20s Soccer Players

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of five-week plyometric training (PT) using different surfaces (sand vs. grass) on sprint and jump performance in young soccer players of the under-20 category. Nineteen soccer players from a professional club in São Paulo (19.3 ± 1.1 years, 1.78 ± 0.06 m; 71.1 ± 6.84 kg) participated in the study. The subjects were divided into 2 groups that performed PT on sand (n=10) or grass (n=9) for five weeks. The PT incorporated exercises like CMJ, drop jumps, and multiple jumps, with the number of jumps increasing from 48 in the initial week to 120 by the final week. ANOVAs were utilized to compare the squat jump (SJ), the countermovement jump (CMJ), the drop jump (DJ), and 15 m sprinting time. A significance level of P ≤ 0.05 was adopted. The results indicated an improvement in performance, as measured by the SJ (Sand: 18.2%; Grass: 17.6%), CMJ (Sand: 12.5%; Grass: 12.4%), DJ from 44cm (Sand: 8.3%; Grass: 5.8%), drop DJ 66 cm (Sand: 7.5%; Grass: 7.1%), DJ from 88cm (Sand: 6.5%; Grass: 5.7%), and 15m sprint time (Sand: -2.2%; Grass: -2.3%). However, no significant difference was found between the two surfaces. In conclusion, 5-week PT on either sand or grass surfaces can improve sprint and jump performance in young soccer players.

Biomechanical characteristics and training interventions of inverted running movements in teenage soccer players

Inverted running, which has a backward and lateral component has recently been especially used for improving agility, proprioception, and injury prevention in young soccer players. This paper investigates the biomechanical and energetic profile of inverted running and assesses the impact of a 6-week intervention program using 62 participants of aged 10–13 months. Anthropometric data improvements include a 27% decrease in the ground reaction forces (GRFs) during the landing, 18% improvement in the agility score and 32% improvement in balance metrics. Increased muscle stimulation was measured in the muscles of the hamstrings and glutes and a 25% and 22% levels respectively proving that the muscle groups reduced their susceptibility to the anterior knee injuries. The intervention program included exercises of increasing complexity such as backward bounding, lateral hops, and soccer specific drills and participants were able to perform 70% an average of implemented training sessions. Post-intervention testing revealed significant improvements in proprioception and dynamic stability compared to the control group (p &lt; 0.05). These findings underscore the value of incorporating atypical movement patterns, such as inverted running, into soccer training regimens to promote comprehensive physical development and reduce injury risk in young athletes.

Inter and intra-session reliability and validity of the Performanz JumpR device for measuring different jump performances in young male soccer players

Inter and intra-session reliability and validity of the Performanz JumpR device for measuring different jump performances in young male soccer players

Combined small-sided games and resistance training: Acute impact on physical capacity in young soccer players

Background Problems: There are not many studies concerning a method combining resistance training (RT) and small-sided games (SSG) shortly on young soccer players. Research Objectives: This study reveals the acute impact of the combination of resistance training with small-sided games on the physical capacity of young soccer players. Methods: Quasi Experiment with a pretest-posttest group design, involving sixty students of Undiksha Soccer Student Activity Unit using a simple random sampling technique. Thirty samples each entered the combined group (SSG+RT), the small-sided games only (SSG) group, and all were involved in training four times a week (four weeks). Two sessions of aerobic endurance, agility, and leg muscle power (LMP) data collection were conducted in the field. Data were analysed using one-way MANOVA assisted by SPSS 16.0 with a significance level of 5%. Findings and Results: One-way MANOVA test showed F value = 61.390 and sig. value 0.000 (p &lt; 0.05), which means there was a significant effect on aerobic endurance, agility, and LMP in both groups. There was no difference in aerobic endurance results in the SSG+RT and SSG groups with a sig. value of 0.092 (p &gt; 0.05), but there was a difference in the two groups in agility with a sig. value of 0.000 (p &lt; 0.05) and LMP with a sig. value of 0.000 (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: To improve aerobic endurance, agility, and LMP simultaneously, a combined training method can be implemented, namely integrating resistance training into small-sided games. The current findings can help to improve the performance of young soccer players in a short time. However, it is necessary to study more deeply other variables that have the potential to affect the results of the current findings, such as longer training times.