Effects of a Back Squat Training Program on Leg Power, Jump, and Sprint Performances in Junior Soccer Players

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of voluntary maximal leg strength training on peak power output (Wpeak), vertical jump performance, and field performances in junior soccer players. Twenty-two male soccer players participated in this investigation and were divided into 2 groups: A resistance training group (RTG; age 17 +/- 0.3 years) and a control group (CG; age 17 +/- 0.5 years). Before and after the training sessions (twice a week for 2 months), Wpeak was determined by means of a cycling force-velocity test. Squat jump (SJ), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 5-jump test (5-JT) performances were assessed. Kinematics analyses were made using a video camera during a 40-m sprint running test and the following running velocities were calculated: The first step after the start (V(first step)), the first 5 m (V(first 5 meters)), and between the 35 m and 40 m (V(max)). Back half squat exercises were performed to determine 1-repetition maximum (1-RM). Leg and thigh muscle volume and mean thigh cross-sectional area (CSA) were assessed by anthropometry. The resistance training group showed improvement in Wpeak (p < 0.05), jump performances (SJ, p < 0.05 and 5-JT, p < 0.001), 1-RM (p < 0.001) and all sprint running calculated velocities (p < 0.05 for both V(first step) and V(first 5 meters), p < 0.01 for V(max)). Both typical force-velocity relationships and mechanical parabolic curves between power and velocity increased after the strength training program. Leg and thigh muscle volume and CSA of RTG remained unchanged after strength training. Back half squat exercises, including adapted heavy loads and only 2 training sessions per week, improved athletic performance in junior soccer players. These specific dynamic constant external resistance exercises are highly recommended as part of an annual training program for junior soccer players.

Effects of Pre-Season Short-Term Daily Undulating Periodized Training on Muscle Strength and Sprint Performance of Under-20 Soccer Players

“…These findings are corroborated with previous research that observed that increases in back squat strength were associated with better sprint performance after seven (Ronnestad et al, 2008) and eight weeks (Chelly et al, 2009) of resistance training in soccer players.…”

Looped Band Placed Around Thighs Increases EMG of Gluteal Muscles Without Hindering Performance During Squatting

“…1,2 It is strongly correlated with various sport performance measures such as vertical jumps and sprints, 3,4 and it is commonly prescribed by exercise professionals to enhance sport performance. 5,6 Because it is such an effective exercise, both strength and conditioning and rehabilitation professionals are continually searching for technical or external aids to help increase squatting proficiency. One possible training strategy includes the placement of resistance bands or looped elastic tubing modalities around different aspects of the lower limbs (feet/ankles/distal-lateral thighs).…”

Relationship between Explosive Performance Measurements of the Lower Limb and Repeated Shuttle-Sprint Ability in Elite Adolescent Handball Players

“…The force-velocity test Force-velocity measurements for the lower limbs were performed on a standard Monark cycle ergometer (model 894 E , Monark Exercise AB, Vansbro, Sweden) as described elsewhere [14,15]. In brief, the instantaneous maximal pedaling velocity during a 7-second all-out sprint was used to calculate the maximal anaerobic power for each braking force, and the subject was judged to have reached peak power (Wpeak) if an additional load induced a decrease in power output.…”