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Physical load imposed on soccer players during small-sided training games
1Sports Biomechanics Laboratory, Faculty of Physical Activity and Sports Sciences, Polytechnical University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain. javier.mallo@upm.es
The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness
|April 23, 2008
Summary
Small-sided soccer games impose a high physical load, exceeding that of competitive matches. These training drills effectively enhance players' specific endurance capacity, mimicking real match demands.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Soccer Training
Background:
- Small-sided games (SSGs) are common in soccer training.
- Understanding the physiological and technical demands of SSGs is crucial for effective program design.
- Previous research has explored various SSG formats, but specific analysis of 3-a-side games on artificial turf is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the kinematical, physiological, and technical load on soccer players during 3-a-side SSGs.
- To compare the demands of SSGs with and without goalkeepers.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of SSGs in replicating competitive match intensity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a bidimensional photogrammetric video system for kinematic analysis.
- Monitored heart rate (HR) at 5-second intervals using Polar Accurex Plus monitors, expressed as a percentage of maximal heart rate (HRmax).
- Employed a custom notation sheet for technical parameter registration.
Main Results:
- Overall intensity of SSGs surpassed that of competitive matches.
- Drills without goalkeepers resulted in higher distance covered and mean HR compared to drills with goalkeepers.
- The inclusion of goalkeepers decreased high-intensity running and increased low-intensity activities, altering the game's tempo and intensity distribution.
Conclusions:
- Small-sided games are effective for developing soccer players' specific endurance.
- Coaches can integrate SSGs into training schedules to simulate the physiological and technical demands of match play.
- Adjusting SSG format (e.g., with/without goalkeepers) allows for manipulation of training load and intensity.
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