Effects of high-intensity interval training with an eccentric hamstring exercise program in futsal players: A...

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Futsal Performance

Background:

• Limited research exists on high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and Nordic Curl (NC) exercises for futsal players.
• Understanding effective training protocols is crucial for optimizing player performance and injury prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of a combined HIIT and NC exercise program against a HIIT-only program in futsal players.
• To evaluate the impact of these training interventions on physical performance metrics.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-one futsal players were divided into two groups: HIIT + NC and HIIT-only.
• Interventions lasted 4 weeks, with the HIIT + NC group performing NC repetitions alongside HIIT circuits.
• Assessed metrics included body mass index, intermittent work performance, vertical jump, and isometric strength (quadriceps and hamstrings).

Main Results:

• Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in intermittent work performance post-intervention.
• A trend towards increased quadriceps and hamstring isometric strength was observed in both groups, but without statistical significance.
• Neither protocol led to significant changes in body mass index or vertical jump performance.

Conclusions:

• Both isolated HIIT and combined HIIT with NC exercises enhance intermittent work performance in futsal players.
• The addition of NC exercises to a HIIT protocol did not provide superior benefits for intermittent work performance compared to HIIT alone.
• Findings can inform futsal-specific physical preparation and injury prevention strategies.