Comparison of the Physical, Physiological, and Psychological Responses of the High-Intensity Interval (HIIT) and Small-Sided Games (SSG) Training Programs in Young Elite Soccer Players

Abstract

We investigated the effects of high-intensity interval (HIIT) and small-sided games (SSG) training programs on physiological and psychological responses in young soccer players. Twenty-four male soccer players (age 16.7 ± 0.9 years) were divided into two groups (HIIT and SSG) and completed a 6-week training programs consisting of two training sessions a week. HIIT consisted of intermittent runs lasting 15 s at the 110% maximum aerobic speed followed by a passive recovery lasting 15 s; SSG was instead structured in a 4 versus 4 players games on a playing field of 25 × 35 m. The muscular power of the lower body was assessed before and after each training session using the 5-jump test to leg length, and two incremental field tests (VAMEVAL test and modified agility t-test). Our results show that HIIT and SSG have similar beneficial effects on the variables connected to the soccer-specific performance and the endurance with little influence on neuromuscular performances. Psychological responses were assessed using the “physical activity enjoyment scale”, the Hooper index and the POMS variables. Results showed that SSG offers greater perceived enjoyment than what can be achieved with HIIT. In conclusion, SSG can be considered an effective, more motivating, and fun soccer-specific training that brings about physiological responses and neuromuscular adjustments in young soccer players.

Effect of Intensified Training Camp on Psychometric Status, Mood State, and Hematological Markers in Youth Soccer Players

“…In the present study, mood states were negatively affected by training camp with decreased vigor scores and increased fatigue and tension scores. The POMS questionnaire is commonly used to assess athletes’ mood state [ 6 , 9 , 31 , 32 , 33 , 34 ]. During intensive training cycles, players have generally reported negative mood states [ 6 ].…”

The effects of adapted physical education sessions on the empathy of female students with overweight

“…The Vameval is a cardiorespiratory fitness test, performed to obtain the maximal aerobic speed (MAV; Cazorla and Léger, 1993 ). The test was performed as previously described ( Ouertatani et al, 2022 ).…”

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

“…The inclusion of studies conducted across different stages of the season provides valuable representativeness in terms of seasonality. Within the analyzed research, studies were identified that focused exclusively on the pre-season [72,73,77], first half of the competitive season [36,70,85,86], second half of the competitive season [74,[87][88][89], and post-competitive season [37]. Additionally, some studies examined combined periods, such as pre-season and early competitive season [71,90].…”

“…Unauthorized distribution is strictly prohibited. [69] Boraczynski et al [83] Castillo et al [74] Clemente et al [37] Dellal et al [105] Eniseler et al [90] Faude et al [70] Herazo-Sánchez et al [106] Hill-Haas et al [88] Impellizzeri et al [71] Koral et al [73] Los Arcos et al [89] Mohr et al [76] Nayiroglu et al [72] Ouertatani et al [86] Radmiminski et al [30] Safania et al [75] VO2max…”

“…Boraczynski et al [83] Castillo et al [74] Clemente et al [37] Dellal et al [105] Eniseler et al [90] Faude et al [70] Herazo-Sánchez et al [106] Hill-Haas et al [88] Impellizzeri et al [71] Koral et al [73] Los Arcos et al [89] Mohr et al [76] Nayiroglu et al [72] Ouertatani et al [86] Radmiminski et al [30] Safania et al [75] VO2max Boraczynski et al [83] Hill-Haas et al [88] Impellizzeri et al [71] Radmiminski et al [30] D1: randomization process; D2: deviations from the intended interventions; D3: missing outcome data; D4: measurement of the outcome; D5: selection of the reported result.…”