Contemporary strength and conditioning practices in professional soccer in South Korea: a mixed-method approach

This study investigated strength and conditioning (S&C) practices in South Korean professional soccer clubs (SKPSC) and identified key challenges faced. Twenty S&C coaches completed an online survey covering (a) background information, (b) physical qualities, (c) training modes, and (d) challenges in S&C delivery. Frequency analysis was applied to fixed-response questions, with thematic analysis used for open-ended questions. Hereafter, six S&C coaches participated in semi-structured interviews to provide deeper insight into the challenges to S&C implementation. All coaches used plyometric training to enhance power, with 60% incorporating weightlifting derivatives. Free-weight and eccentric training were used by all coaches to develop strength. Strength training was the most commonly reported method to improve acceleration (80%), while maximal sprint speed was targeted through strength training (50%) and downhill running (50%). Change of direction speed was most often trained using strength training (70%) and small-sided games (70%). Perceptual and decision-making tasks were integrated into warm-ups by all coaches to develop agility. Four key barriers influencing S&C implementation were identified: insufficient staffing, time constraints, coaches' limited understanding of sports science, and difficulties balancing S&C with technical/tactical demands. Strength and conditioning practices in SKPSC generally reflected current research-informed approaches for developing physical qualities. However, organizational barriers, including limited staffing, fixture congestion, and restricted integration of sports science, were perceived to constrain effective implementation. These findings provide novel insight into the contextual challenges influencing S&C delivery in SKPC and may help inform staffing structures, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practitioner education in similar football environments.