Optimizing Muscle Performance in Young Soccer Players: Exploring the Impact of Resisted Sprint Training and Its Relationship with Distance Covered

Abstract

Background: Speed training with resisted sprints has been shown to positively affect neuromuscular performance in soccer players. Various loads, ranging from 10% to 120% of body mass, have demonstrated performance improvements across the spectrum. However, the impact of sprint distance with optimal load on these adaptive responses has yet to be thoroughly described.

Objective: To analyze the influence of sprint distance in resisted sprints on muscle performance in young soccer players.

Methods: This quantitative study utilized a pre-post experimental design. The sample consisted of 24 young soccer players (15.3 ± 0.68 years; 61.4 ± 7.08 kg; 1.60 ± 0.06 m) randomized into three groups (10, 20, and 30 m) and subjected to 12 sessions of resisted sprint training over six weeks. The volume was homogenized across groups, with a total distance of 120 m for each. The intervention's effect was analyzed through performance in the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), countermovement jump (CMJ), modified 505 agility test (505 m), and linear sprint tests. Differences were analyzed using a mixed ANOVA, incorporating a between-subjects factor (training group) and a within-subjects factor (pre- and post-intervention).

Results: Time-dependent differences were observed in all groups for peak force (PF) (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.62), time to PF (TPF) (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.53), impulse at 50 (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.57), 100 (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.60), and 200 ms (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.67) in IMTP; jump height by impulse-momentum (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.64), rate of force development (p = 0.04; η²p = 0.14), yielding impulse (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.49), and concentric impulse (p = 0.01; η²p = 0.19) in CMJ; time (p < 0.001; η²p = 0.46) in 505 m; and average speed in linear sprint (p = 0.003; η²p = 0.36), with moderate to large effect sizes, regardless of the distance covered. No differences were observed for the interaction between the time* and group or between groups.

Conclusion: Performance improvements were independent of the sprint distance, with no differences between training groups. Distances between 10 and 30 m may enhance muscle performance in young soccer players.

Keywords: football; muscle strength; physical fitness; puberty players; resistance training.

Figure 1

Experimental design. Temporal sequence of resisted sprint training protocol. Total volume: nine weeks (Week 1 = familiarization; Week 2 and 9 = pre- and post-test, respectively; Week 3 to 8 = resisted sprint training). IMTP: Isometric mid-thigh pull; CMJ: Countermovement jump; COD: Change of direction; D: Day.

Figure 2

Design protocol resisted sprints, typical week. Duration: six weeks, weekly frequency: two sessions. G1: Experimental group 10 m; G2: Experimental group 20 m; G3: Experimental group 30 m.