Comparing the physical effects of combining small-sided games with short high-intensity interval training or repeated sprint training in youth soccer players: A parallel-study design

Abstract

Most of the research combining small-sided games (SSGs) with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) is using the short or long forms of HIIT. However, other types of HIIT as repeated sprint training (RST) could enhance different stimuli. The purpose of the current research was to analyze the within- and between-group variations of physical fitness and body composition of two combined training interventions: (i) SSGs combined with a short high intensity interval training (sHIIT); and (ii) SSGs combined with a RST. This study followed a randomized parallel study design. Twenty-eight youth soccer players (age: 17.3 ± 0.5) belong to the same team were assigned equally to two intervention groups: SSG + sHIIT versus SSG + RST. Training intervention lasted 4 weeks, with a 2-session/week frequency. The players were tested twice, once before and after the intervention with the following tests: skinfolds (fat mass); Sargent jump test (SJT); standing long jump; sprinting time at 10-, 20-, or 30-m; 5-0-5 for time and deficit; 30-15 intermittent fitness test (30-15IFT) based on the final velocity, and repeated sprint ability (RAST) for peak, minimum, average power, and fatigue index. A mixed analysis of variance was conducted to considering factor × time effect. Between-group analysis revealed no significant differences at baseline and post-intervention period for fat mass, sprinting time at 10-, 20-, and 30-m, change-of-direction (COD) time and deficit, SJT and standing long jump, final velocity at 30-15IFT and RAST peak, average power, and fatigue index ( p > 0.05). Within-group analysis revealed that both groups significantly reduced fat mass ( p ≤ 0.001), SJT ( p ≤ 0.001), standing long jump ( p ≤ 0.001), sprint time at 10- and 20-m ( p ≤ 0.001), 30-m ( p = 0.002), COD time ( p ≤ 0.001) and deficit ( p < 0.05), RAST average ( p < 0.05), and final velocity 30-15IFT ( p ≤ 0.001). Only SSG + RST had significant improvements on COD deficit and peak power ( p < 0.05). The result of the current research suggests that either SSG + sHIIT or SSG + RST are effective for improving physical fitness in youth soccer players, with a multiple beneficial effect on locomotor profile, speed and COD, jumping performance and repeated sprint ability.

Evaluating the Effects of Consecutive Phases of Plyometric Jump Training on Athletic Performance in Male Soccer Players: The Effect of Training Frequency and Volume Manipulations

“…Change-of-Direction Test. As per similar investigations (22,25), the 5-0-5 test protocol was used to measure the COD performance time of the players. Electronic timing gates were used (Newest Power timer 300-series testing system, Finland), and the test has been shown to be highly reliable in the measurement of COD ability (ICC 5 0.93) in soccer players of a similar age (24).…”

“…Distances of 10 and 40 m were used to determine the sprinting speed of the players. Subjects started in a split-legged stance with the preferred foot positioned 70 cm behind the first pair of photocells that marked the starting line (22,25,26). Three pairs of photocells were used (starting line, 10 m, and 40 m).…”

Effect of vertical, horizontal, and combined plyometric training on jump, sprint and change of direction performance in male soccer players

“…The best performance of these two jumps (cm) was recorded for further analysis. The intra-class coefficient (ICC) in this test was 0.88 [ 14 ].…”

Endurance Performance Adaptations between SSG and HIIT in Soccer Players: A Meta-analysis

“…Given the ongoing debate over which approach may be superior between runningbased HIIT and SSGs, some studies have compared the effects of both on the endurance chronic adaptations of soccer players [26,27,36,37]. Also, some experimental approaches have been testing the possibility of combining both (i.e., SSGs + runningbased HIIT) against using only one type [38,39]. Despite that, no systematic review has This article is protected by copyright.…”

“…Also, some experimental approaches have been testing the possibility of combining both (i.e. SSGs + running-based HIIT) against using only one type [38,39]. Despite that, no systematic review has summarized the evidence for comparing the endurance chronic adaptations between SSGs and running-based HIIT.…”