Effects of a small-sided game-based training program on repeated sprint and change of direction abilities in recreationally-trained soccer players

To examine the effects of 6-week periodized small-sided game (SSG) training intervention on change of direction [COD], sprint and repeated sprint ability [RSA] in recreational male soccer players. Twenty-three young soccer players (age: 20.86 years) were randomized in a control group (N.=11) and an experimental group (N.=12). The SSG program was included in the experimental group's training sessions. The players completed two variations of a SSG (i.e. 2 vs. 2 and 4 vs. 4 players) during intervention. To examine the changes in physical performance after the 6-week periodized SSG training intervention, all players were tested 6 weeks apart (i.e. pre-test and post-test) in sprint, COD Ability Test, and RSA Shuttle Test. A 2x2 ANOVA showed that 6-week SSG training intervention induced significant improvements (P0.7) in COD Ability Test, and variables related to both Sprint Test and RSA in the experimental group, whereas the control group remained unchanged (P≥0.05, ES