Effect of Full Squat Versus Half Squat Strength Training on Physical Fitness in Trained Pubertal Tennis Players

Hammami, R, Mahmoudi, A, Kassis, O, Dardouri, W, and van den Tillaar, R. Effect of full squat versus half squat strength training on physical fitness in trained pubertal tennis players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2026-This study compared the effects of full squat versus half squat strength training on lower-body strength, power, sprint, and change-of-direction (COD) performance in trained pubertal tennis players. Twenty-eight male tier 2 pubertal tennis players (14.0 ± 0.5 years) were randomly assigned to full ( n = 14) or half ( n = 14) squat training groups. Both groups completed an 8-week, twice-weekly progressive squat program integrated into their regular tennis training. Pre- and post-training assessments included 1 repetition maximum for full and half squats, countermovement jump (CMJ height), 5- and 10-m sprint times, and T-half COD test. Data were analyzed using 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (time × group). Both groups improved full and half squat strength and CMJ height; however, full squat training elicited significantly greater gains in full squat 1 repetition maximum (+10.2% vs. +2.7%), CMJ height (+12.2% vs. +3.8%), and sprint performance (5 m: -7.5%, 10 m: -6.3%), whereas half squat training showed no significant sprint or COD improvements. Full squat training elicited superior improvements in lower-body strength, power, and sprint performance compared with half squat training in trained pubertal tennis players. Training through a larger range of motion may optimize neuromuscular adaptations and functional transfer to sport-specific, multidirectional tasks during puberty.