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This study was conducted to systematically compile and sythesize the studies about taper training in literature and in the most current form, to reveal the physiological changes caused by taper trainings. Qualitative research methods were used for in-depth study and interpretation of the studies on taper applications published between 1985-2020. Document analysis was used as data collection method and the obtained data were analyzed by content analysis method. Taper training is a complex training method that facilitates the systematic reduction of the training load and the attainment of the physiological harmony. Before the major competitions the reductions in load, density, volume or frequency of the training in order to achieve optimal performance are made which is called the taper. The aim of taper training is to reduce fatigue and increase physiological adaptation and performance in athletes through intensive training. Since each sport branch has different physiological demands, taper trainings are applied differently in individual and team sports. The effects of these practices may vary in athletes in different branches. In the literature studies, some increases were found in the blood volume and red blood cells values, muscular glycogen deposits, some enzymes, blood lactate and VO2 max. values and the movement economies of athletes. However, in some studies, some decreases were found in the levels of the respiratory threshold, creatine kinase in the blood and the values of the submaximal ventilation, the diastolic and systolic blood pressures of the athletes. Keywords: Taper training, athlete, performance improvement, physiological changes

Aim: The purpose of this study was made a comparison of young soccer players according to their positions in game in terms of structural and motoric properties. Method: Total 41 soccer players who were between 16-18 ages participated voluntary to this study. Age, height, weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, vertical jumping, anaerobic power,10m -30m speed values were determined. The data were analyzed statistically with SPSS program. Results: At the end of this study, the defender players were taller and heavier than the other position’s players. But this difference was not significant statistically (p<0.05). Conclusion: The attack players were faster than the others in 10m speed test. This difference was significant (p<0.05). In other measurements, there were no relations statistically according to the player’s positions.

Aim:The purpose of the current study was to investigate the relationship between vertical jump performance and change of direction ability in female soccer players. Method: Nineteen female soccer players (Age=18,20±2,44 years, Height=160,24±3,52 cm, Weight=57,24±6,28 kg, Body mass index=19,46±4,48) from second division team in Turkish Professional Soccer Female League were tested for vertical jump (countermovement jump) and change of direction ability with zig zag test. Relationship between zig zag test and vertical jump were assessed by Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient test. Results: According to study results, there was a low correlation (r =0.62, p < 0.05) between vertical jump and zig zag tests. Conclusion: As a result, it is recommended that high-intensity exercises, especially jumping, change of direction and sprint drills, should be included sufficiently in the training planning so that female football players can demonstrate their optimal performance during the game.

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