Biology · 2021 · 45 citations · 28 references
This study aimed to compare the order effects of combined small-sided games (SSGs) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the psychophysiological responses and physical and technical performances of young soccer players. Twenty-four soccer players (aged 14.63 ± 0.71 years) were randomly divided into SSGs + HIIT (<i>n</i> = 12) and HIIT + SSGs (<i>n</i> = 12) for 6 weeks. The SSGs consisted of two 4-16 min rounds of 2, 3, and four-a-side games with 2 min of passive resting, whereas the HIIT consisted of 6-10 min of high-intensity runs at varying intensities (from 90 to 100%). Pre-test and post-test elements included a 5-30 m sprint test, countermovement jump test, zigzag agility test with the ball and without the ball, repeated sprint ability test, speed dribbling ability test, three-corner run test, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1. Both combined training interventions produced similar improvements in physical performance and technical responses (<i>p</i> ≥ 0.05, <i>d</i> values ranging from 0.40 to 1.10). However, the combined HIIT + SSGs training produced meaningfully lower perceived exertion (<i>p</i> = 0.00, <i>d</i> = 2.98) and greater physical enjoyment (<i>p</i> = 0.00, <i>d</i> = 4.28) compared with the SSGs + HIIT intervention. Furthermore, the SSGs + HIIT group showed a higher training load than those from the HIIT + SSGs group for all weeks (<i>p</i> ≤ 0.05, <i>d</i> values ranging from 1.36 to 2.05). The present study's results might be used by coaches and practitioners to design training programmes for youth soccer players.
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