The order of concurrent training does not affect soccer-related performance adaptations

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Soccer Performance Training

Background:

• Limited research exists on soccer-specific concurrent training, particularly concerning the impact of training order.
• Understanding optimal training sequencing is crucial for maximizing player development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the effects of concurrent high-intensity run-based training (HIT) and strength- and power-based training (STR) on soccer-specific performance.
• To investigate if the order of HIT and STR within training sessions influences performance adaptations.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen semi- and fully-professional soccer players participated in a 5-week pre-season intervention.
• Players were pair-matched into two groups, completing 3 weekly sessions: HIT followed by STR, or STR followed by HIT.
• Performance was assessed via field- and gym-based tests before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• A significant training effect was observed across all measured performance variables for the combined group (n=18).
• Improvements were noted in 10-m sprint, repeated sprint ability, agility, and aerobic capacity (Yo-Yo test).
• No significant differences in performance changes were found between the group performing HIT before STR and the group performing STR before HIT.

Conclusions:

• Concurrent training integrating HIT and STR positively impacts key soccer performance metrics.
• The specific order of implementing HIT and STR within a training session does not appear to affect these performance adaptations in soccer players.