The Effects of an Alternative Training Method on Physical and Technical Abilities of Adolescent Soccer Players: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This study examined the effects of an alternative strength training method during soccer training on the development of physical and technical abilities of youth soccer players. 17 soccer players (age: 15 ±0.5 years) were divided in a control group (CG ) and an experimental group (EG). The players of the EG wore a "weight shorts", with 300 gr of additional weight on each thigh, while they participated into 3 regular soccer training sessions per week, for 12 weeks. The CG followed the same training program without wearing the "weighted shorts". Before and after 12 weeks of training, anthropometric characteristics, 10- and 30-m speed, the Arrowhead change-of-direction test, the Illinois agility test with ball, the countermovement jump, and the 5-repetition maximum (5RM) load at the split squat, leg extension and leg curl were measured. The EG improved significantly (p < 0.05) more in comparison with the CG in countermovement jump, leg extension and split squat (left leg) 5RM load. The addition of weights on the thighs using special shorts during soccer training sessions leads to increased jumping ability and lower limbs maximal strength in youth soccer players.