Small-Sided Games Are Not as Effective as Intermittent Running to Stimulate Aerobic Metabolism in Prepubertal Soccer Players

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the soccer pitch area during small-sided games (SSG) in prepubertal children on physiological and technical demands, and to compare them, for the physiological demands, to high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Methods: Ten young soccer players (13.0 [0.3] y) performed a HIIT and 3 SSG of various field sizes (30 × 20 m, 42 × 38 m, and 51 × 34 m). Each SSG was performed with 5 players per team, during 4 × 4-minutes interspaced with 1 minute of passive recovery in between. HIIT also followed a 4 × 4-minute protocol with running speed set on an individual basis. Heart rate (HR) was continuously monitored during training sessions. For each exercise modality, time spent above 90% of HRmax (T≥90%,HRmax) was calculated, and technical actions were quantified during SSG by video analysis. Results: T≥90%,HRmax was similar between the 3 SSG (∼587 [276] s; P > .2) but 24% to 37% lower than during HIIT (826 [140] s, P < .05). Coefficients of variations in T≥90%,HRmax were 2.3 to 3.5 times larger in SSG compared with HIIT. For technical actions, greater number of possessions (21 [6] vs ∼14 [4]), and lower ball touches per possession (2.4 [0.6] vs ∼2.9 [0.6]) were found in the small SSG compared with larger SSG, respectively (P < .05). Conclusion: The 3 SSG led to lower acute stimulation of the aerobic metabolism, suggesting a lower potential for chronic aerobic adaptations, compared with HIIT. Moreover, interindividual variability in the physiological response was substantially greater in SSG compared with HIIT, indicating increased heterogeneity among players performing the same training protocol.

Small – sided games: a reflection – what the research says

“…Furthermore, it concluded that 3 SSGs led to less acute stimulation of aerobic metabolism, suggesting a lower potential for chronic aerobic adaptations. 9 Based on this aspect, the results suggest that programs based on SSGs should be complemented by other training methods that benefit training capacities and develop metabolic protection for the long duration of decisive matches in soccer players. 5,10 SSGs are not suitable for simulating and maintaining the physical demands of repeated sprints, repeated displacements at high intensity of competition, pressure marking, rapid recomposition of practiced attack/defense, constant acceleration/deceleration in a pitch much larger than the reduced pitch and that requires an optimal aerobic level (stamina).…”

The Effects of a Supramaximal Intermittent Training Program on Aerobic and Anaerobic Running Measures in Junior Male Soccer Players

“…Thus, the larger improvements displayed in the EG than the CG could be attributed to the better adequacy of more controlled shuttle-run-based interval training sessions to reach this training target zone (>90% HR peak ) and guarantee a similar training stimulus among players than small-sided games or technical-tactical activities. It is well known that interindividual variability in training responses is substantially increased in these game-based activities, indicating greater heterogeneity among players performing the same training session ( Massamba et al, 2021 ). The improvements for the EG of this study were similar to those reported in elite professional Greek soccer players after preseason training ( Kalapotharakos et al, 2011 ).…”

Slow and Steady, or Hard and Fast? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Studies Comparing Body Composition Changes between Interval Training and Moderate Intensity Continuous Training

“…Thus, our findings in this regard cannot necessarily be extrapolated to self-directed exercise programs. Given the high interindividual variability observed in the psychological response to endurance exercise [110], it would seem that allowing for a choice of training intensity would likely help to improve long-term adherence. Future research should endeavor to test this hypothesis under ecologically valid conditions.…”