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Planning Training Workload in Football Using Small-Sided Games' Density
Abstract
Sangnier, S, Cotte, T, Brachet, O, Coquart, J, and Tourny, C. Planning training workload in football using small-sided games density. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2018-To develop the physical qualities, the small-sided games' (SSGs) density may be essential in soccer. Small-sided games are games in which the pitch size, players' number, and rules are different to those for traditional soccer matches. The purpose was to assess the relation between training workload and SSGs' density. The 33 densities data (41 practice games and 3 full games) were analyzed through global positioning system (GPS) data collected from 25 professional soccer players (80.7 ± 7.0 kg; 1.83 ± 0.05 m; 26.4 ± 4.9 years). From total distance, distance metabolic power, sprint distance, and acceleration distance, the data GPS were divided into 4 categories: endurance, power, speed, and strength. Statistical analysis compared the relation between GPS values and SSGs' densities, and 3 methods were applied to assess models (R-squared, root-mean-square error, and Akaike information criterion). The results suggest that all the GPS data match the player's essential athletic skills. They were all correlated with the game's density. Acceleration distance, deceleration distance, metabolic power, and total distance followed a logarithmic regression model, whereas distance and number of sprints follow a linear regression model. The research reveals options to monitor the training workload. Coaches could anticipate the load resulting from the SSGs and adjust the field size to the players' number. Taking into account the field size during SSGs enables coaches to target the most favorable density for developing expected physical qualities. Calibrating intensity during SSGs would allow coaches to assess each athletic skill in the same conditions of intensity as in the competition.
... Small-sided games (SSGs) refer to training exercises that differ from official soccer match conditions in terms of the pitch size, the number of players, and rules of the game (Sangnier et al., 2019). Currently, SSGs represent a widely employed approach in both adult and young soccer players due to their capacity to effectively engage various physical capacities along with technical and tactical skills (Sarmento et al., 2018), providing consequences in psychobiological responses during the games (Clemente et al., 2021;Clemente and Sarmento, 2020). ...
... However, it should be emphasized that those authors only analyzed three different types of the ApP (300, 200 and 100 m 2 ·player −1 ). In this respect, recent investigations with professional soccer players and large amounts of data have shown that the ApP during SSGs was correlated with relative TDC, high-speed distance and sprint (Riboli et al., 2020;Sangnier et al., 2019). Hence, an increase in the ApP used could rise locomotor demands in soccer players. ...
... In particular, HSD and sprint distance (SD) play a crucial role in soccer-specific performance enhancement and injury prevention (McCall et al., 2020;Mendiguchia et al., 2020). Consequently, it seems necessary to accurately quantify external load measures during SSGs aimed at physical development to assist coaches and conditioning professionals in optimizing performance (Sangnier et al., 2019). ...
Small-sided games (SSGs) refer to game formats where there are variations in the pitch size, the number of players, and rules as compared to official soccer matches. The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between GPS-derived external loads and the SSGs’ area per player (ApP) in elite youth soccer players to identify whether the ApP influenced GPS-derived external load measures to estimate external load variables from SSGs with different densities (i.e., ApP100: the ApP <150 m2·player−1; ApP200: the ApP ranged from 151 to 250; ApP300: the ApP > 251 m2·player−1). A cumulative count of 978 individual observations was undertaken, encompassing 15 diverse SSG configurations. The results showed moderate and large correlations between the ApP and external load measures for both U19 and U16 soccer players. The ApP300 induced higher locomotor activities than the ApP100 and the ApP200. However, the ApP100 showed higher mechanical (accelerations and decelerations) values compared to ApP200 and ApP300 conditions for both age groups. It was found that an ApP of less than 150 m2·player−1 in SSGs did not stimulate enough high-speed distance relative (HSDR), very high-speed distance relative (VHSDR) and sprint distance relative (SDR) compared to official matches in youth soccer players. However, the same ApP overestimated mechanical variables such as total high accelerations and decelerations relative to time (THACCR and THDECR, respectively). The findings of this study have the potential to facilitate the effective management of training loads tailored to specific fitness components of players.
... Data were downloaded and analyzed immediately after each match and training session using the manufacturer's propriety software package (version 1.32, Fieldwizz, ASI, Lausanne, Switzerland). External load was monitored using the following variables: total distance (TD) expressed as the absolute distance covered by the players and in meters (m), distances at specific speeds (in m) including low-speed distance (LSD; [0-15[ km/h), moderate-speed distance (MSD; [15][16][17][18][19][20][ km/h), high-speed distance (HSD; [15][16][17][18][19][20] km/h), and sprint distance (SPR; >25 km/h), and the total number of accelerations (ACC; >3 m/s 2 ) and decelerations (DEC; <-3 m/s 2 ). After these experimental training sessions, players reported their RPE using a Borg CR-10 Scale. ...
... Data were downloaded and analyzed immediately after each match and training session using the manufacturer's propriety software package (version 1.32, Fieldwizz, ASI, Lausanne, Switzerland). External load was monitored using the following variables: total distance (TD) expressed as the absolute distance covered by the players and in meters (m), distances at specific speeds (in m) including low-speed distance (LSD; [0-15[ km/h), moderate-speed distance (MSD; [15][16][17][18][19][20][ km/h), high-speed distance (HSD; [15][16][17][18][19][20] km/h), and sprint distance (SPR; >25 km/h), and the total number of accelerations (ACC; >3 m/s 2 ) and decelerations (DEC; <-3 m/s 2 ). After these experimental training sessions, players reported their RPE using a Borg CR-10 Scale. ...
... It could have been anticipated that acceleration and deceleration demands would exhibit significant variations, given their pronounced demands in these contexts. 20 Small-sided games are typically designed to accentuate acceleration and deceleration demands, unlike large-sided games. 4,20 Speculatively, the predetermined thresholds for acceleration and deceleration (>3m/s 2 and <-3 m/s 2 ) might have been excessively high to discriminate their demands effectively within small-and medium-sided games. ...
BACKGROUNDː Highly trained academy soccer practitioners usually implement an aerobic-oriented session followed by a speed-oriented session during the first and second heavy load session of a training week, respectively. This study aimed to investigate if the order of these physical training sessions would influence the external training loads and the subsequent readiness level on match day. METHODSː Twenty-five highly trained academy soccer players (12 U17 and 13 U19) participated in two experimental weeks randomly presented. The AEROBIC-SPEED periodization implemented an aerobic-oriented session on MD-4 and a speed-oriented session on MD-2. The SPEED-AEROBIC periodization did the opposite. During these two sessions, players wore a global positioning system and rated their perceived exertion (RPE). Players were also tested on MD-4 for baseline values (CONTROL) and match-day (TEST). Tests included a counter movement jump (CMJ), a 20-m sprint, the Illinois agility test (IAT), and the Hooper questionnaire. RESULTSː For the aerobic-oriented session, players reported greater distances during AEROBIC-SPEED periodization than SPEED-AEROBIC in 15-20 km/h (1273.53±328.51 m vs. 1174.84±210.33 m, P<0.05) and 20-25 km/h (658.92±264.41 m vs. 478.17±259.10 m, P<0.01). For the speed-oriented session, players reported greater distances during SPEED-AEROBIC than AEROBIC-SPEED periodization in 20-25 km/h (298.84±120.12 m vs. 223.24±114.86 m, P<0.05) and >25 km/h (110.74±34.65 m vs. 84.96±43.85 m, P<0.05). Tests revealed similar values for CONTROL and TEST between the two experimental weeks for CMJ, 20m, IAT and Hooper. CONCLUSIONSː The physical qualities (both aerobic and speed), when periodized at the beginning of the week (on MD-4) rather than later (MD-2) showed higher external loads without changing the readiness level on MD. The results emphasize the need to periodize the training contents according to the aim of the cycle.
... Upon reviewing the studies, it is observed that various Small-Sided Games (SSG) involving different dimensions and player numbers, such as goalkeeping (Kunrath et al., 2020;Coutinho et al., 2019;Canton et al., 2021;Folgado et al., 2019;Folgado et al., 2018;Giménez et al., 2018a;Giménez et al., 2020;Alcantara et al., 2022), goalkeeper-less (Giménez et al., 2018b;Mohr et al., 2022;Randers et al., 2020;Aquino et al., 2019;Ciocca et al., 2022;Bujalance et al., 2022;Lopez-Fernandez et al., 2019;Papanikolaou et al., 2021;Nunes et al., 2021;Sangnier et al., 2019), goalkeeper and goalkeeper-less (Younesi et al., 2021;Clemente et al., 2019), goalkeeper and joker player (Lemes et al., 2020), goalkeeper-less and joker player (Lozano et al., 2020;Asian-Clemente et al., 2021), have been conducted to enhance game performance in football training. ...
... In games played on different surfaces and field sizes, it is observed that the total distance covered on grass fields is lower compared to other surfaces, and the smallest-sized games have the lowest values (Lopez-Fernandez et al., 2019). Additionally, it has been suggested that Small-Sided Games (SSGs) with areas of 115, 150, 225, and 280 m2 are required for strength, endurance, power, and sprint development at different field sizes (Sangnier et al., 2019). Ciocca and colleagues (2022), who conducted Small-Sided Games (SSGs) with 5vs5 using GPS, demonstrated that the application of mental fatigue before SSGs did not impair performance in terms of physiological and technical aspects. ...
... In games played on different surfaces and field dimensions, it has been observed that the total distance covered is lower on grass fields compared to other surfaces, and games played on the smallest field size have the lowest values compared to other games (Lopez-Fernandez et al., 2019). Additionally, it has been suggested that Small-Sided Games (SSGs) with areas of 115, 150, 225, and 280 m 2 are needed for strength, endurance, power, and sprint development, respectively, in various field dimensions (Sangnier et al., 2019). When comparing game performance to official matches, it has been observed that Small-Sided Games (SSGs) result in higher speeds, acceleration, and deceleration distances. ...
This study was conducted to investigate small-sided games (SSG) played in football training using Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. The research involved scanning relevant scientific publications in English, containing titles and abstracts related to football and GPS technology, between January 1, 2017, and September 20, 2022, using Web of Science, Pubmed, and Scopus databases. The database review resulted in finding 310 articles. After excluding 103 duplicate articles, 114 more articles were excluded during the examination of abstracts. Upon the examination of all remaining 93 articles, 59 related to match performance, 6 review articles, and 4 articles written in a language other than English were excluded. Following this comprehensive review, 23 studies were included in the quantitative synthesis. The study revealed a diversity of physical, psychophysiological, technical-tactical, surface-related, gender-related, and player position-related aspects in small-sided game research in football. Based on this systematic review, it is suggested that physical, psychological, and technical-tactical factors can be integrated with positional data using parameters such as player movement speed, spatial movement, playing areas, and intra-team and inter-team synchronization pairs.
... In this regard, it has already been reported that young soccer players cover higher TD, higher HIR, VHIR and attain greater Vmax during SSGs played on larger pitch areas (Casamichana & Castellano, 2010;Castellano et al., 2015). This behavior has also been observed in professional soccer players (Sangnier et al., 2019). Higher pitch areas maintaining a similar number of players imply greater individual interaction space (194 vs. 97 m2 per player for LSG vs. SSG, respectively). ...
Introduction: Physical match actions are simulated through modified games. Pitch size and set configuration seems to influence the physical responses during small-sided games. Objective: The aim of the present study is to analyze the effects of pitch size and set configuration during small-sided games. Methodology: Fourteen young male field soccer players performed three small-sided games, involving 7 vs. 7 + 2 goalkeepers: 3 x 8 min with 5 min of rest between sets on a 68 x 40 m pitch (194 m2); same pitch area but 6 x 4 min with 2 min of rest (194 m2); and 6 x 4 min with 2 min of rest on a 40 x 34 m pitch (97 m2). Vertical jump, kick velocity and sprint were assessed to examine the residual fatigue before and after each small-sided game. Results: Larger pitch sizes showed significantly higher physical demands. Shorter bouts demanded greater distances at high intensity than longer bouts. A significant SSG x time interaction was observed for 10-m sprint time (P = 0.04), where a greater impairment was observed after completing 6 x 4 min (194 m2). Discussion: Higher external loads have been observed during games on larger pitches. A 4 min bout was provided as the optimal physical training stimulus. Conclusions: Larger pitch sizes and shorter bout durations are higher-demand games than smaller pitch sizes and longer bouts. Sprint performance is impaired after completing every small-sided game, especially acceleration capacity after completing modified games involving larger pitch areas and shorter bout durations.
... In that same pathway, some studies have reported that GKs only cover 50% of the TD when compared to the other football field positions [22], experiencing a series of short sprints of moderate intensity [23]. Consequently, and due to the nature of their position and the playing area GKs occupy, these players do not perform a high number of actions at maximum speed [24]. ...
Background/Objectives: Studies focused on the soccer goalkeeper position in training and official matches are scarce. The present study aimed to analyze the external load during training sessions and official matches in semi-professional goalkeepers. Methods: Data from goalkeepers (n = 6) from the youth ranks of a professional team belonging to the first Spanish soccer league have been used. The sample is made up of a total of 758 data collected during all the training and competitions carried out by the analyzed teams that made up the squad during the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 seasons. A descriptive and inferential analysis was carried out based on the category (Youth B or Youth C) and the sports context (training or competition). Results: The results showed significant differences depending on the category (average time to feet left, average time to feet right, total jumps, total dives, total left dives, total right dives, high metabolic load distance (HMLD), and high metabolic power efforts (HMPE)), and the sport context (average time to feet right, total jumps, total dives, total left dives, total right dives, total distance, distance 18–21 km/h, distance 21–24 km/h, Dec 2–3, efforts, and HMLD). Conclusions: The EL of the GKs shows differences regarding the category and the context. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze and determine the threshold of each player considering different variables related to the external and internal load to individualize the training tasks and prevent injuries due to overload.
... The ITLs obtained in the present investigation are relatively smaller than in the study by Marynowicz et al. (2020), which reported session-RPE values of 328 AU in youth soccer players. The different scoring methods or rules applied in the SSG in this study indicate varying psychophysiological demands, even when executed without altering other game rules such as pitch size and the number of players, which are conventionally employed to modify players' physiological responses (Sangnier et al., 2019). ...
Diverse strategies for manipulating acute training load can be employed in small-sided games.
However, the impact of different scoring methods on the internal and external training loads of young athletes during such games remains a topic of debate. The present study aimed to compare external and internal training loads and perceive recovery in small-sided games played with dif - ferent scoring rules. The secondary objective was to analyse the correlation between internal and external training loads. On separate days, 13 young athletes ( Mage 14.7 ± 0.4 years) participated in three different small-sided game models: ball possession, score zone, and small-sided games with small goals. Accelerometers worn by the players recorded raw acceleration values, which were later transformed into external training loads measured with PlayerLoadTM. Approximate - ly 20 minutes after the conclusion of each small-sided game session, the participants’ internal training loads were obtained, using the session rate of perceived exertion (session-RPE) meth - od. Significant differences were found in external training load values ( F(2.28) = 35.046, p < .001; ŋ ² = .78). Ball possession resulted in higher external training loads compared to the score zone and the small-sided games with small goals. Similarly, ball possession caused higher internal training loads compared to the score zone, and the small-sided games with small goals ( F (2,28) = 19. 549, p ≤ .001; ŋ ² = .62). In conclusion, ball possession led to higher external training loads and internal training loads, while small-sided games with small goals led to higher external and internal train - ing loads than score zone. Coaches can opt to use ball possession in training intensifications and small-sided games with small goals in periods of reduced training loads.
Keywords: Session-RPE. PlayerLoad. Training impulse. Adolescent.
... faltou capacidade de usar largura devido ao posicionamento demasiado profundo dos laterais, levando a que durante a semana seja criada uma tarefa para corrigir o posicionamento destes), ao mesmo tempo que procura reforçar comportamentos já adquiridos e potenciar a vertente estratégica para o próximo jogo. Desta forma, a sessão do MD-4 é usualmente dedicada ao trabalho em espaços curtos para promover a tensão, acelerações e desacelerações e mudanças de direção.Para este efeito, normalmente as tarefas são realizas em espaço curto(Sangnier et al., 2019), com reduzido número de jogadores(Rebelo et al., 2016) e com período de tempo curto. Em contraste, o dia seguinte (MD-3) foca-se em tarefas realizadas em espaços maiores, envolvendo um número superior de jogadores e com durações superiores. ...
É possível verificar que a investigação no âmbito do Futebol tem aumentado
significativamente, resultando em avanços do ponto de vista concetual e metodológico (Cardoso-Marinho et al., 2022; Sarmento et al., 2018). Paralelamente, constata-se a existência de esforços para articular, concertadamente, os avanços citados previamente com a melhoria das práticas de treinadores (Woods et al., 2020). Neste sentido, este livro visa descrever as conceções e práticas de um conjunto de investigadores, docentes e treinadores, tendo um carácter, eminentemente, aplicado e podendo, desta forma, contribuir para uma reflexão aprofundada acerca de diversas perspetivas e práticas adjacentes ao treino de Futebol. Este livro foi desenvolvido com base no pressuposto de que a pluralidade ontológica, epistemológica e axiológica é um requisito essencial para que a produção de conhecimento possa, verdadeiramente, suscitar reflexão crítica, questionamento, bem como a procura de incertezas e do desconhecido. A promoção de perspetivas fechadas e segregadoras (i.e., sustentando a validade de uma única ontologia), associadas ao modo como conceptualizamos o treino de Futebol e os aspetos que este acarreta limitam a evolução para uma praxis inclusiva, agregadora e facilitadora de mudança. Mediante o exposto, cada capítulo encerra uma realidade diferente composta por uma linguagem e conceitos próprios que se refletem nos entendimentos apresentados sobre o planeamento e a operacionalização do processo de treino, bem como na sua interação com o jogo. Isto é, cada capítulo desafia o leitor a refletir e questionar os conceitos apresentados, mas, ao mesmo tempo, aceder a uma visão fundamentada sobre as propostas descritas, fundadas nas práticas de investigadores, docentes e treinadores com um percurso substancial na modalidade. Cabe, ao leitor, tomar decisões e indagar sobre a relação entre os conceitos e as propostas de operacionalização abordadas em cada capítulo, e a sua realidade prática. Esperamos que a diversidade de conceções apresentadas possa facilitar reflexões aprofundadas e estimular o pensamento divergente
... 20 For instance, it was previously observed that playing area dimensions influence the intensity of the game, the actions of the players, and the used energy systems. 21 Large playing areas are associated with an increase in the intensity of exercise, 7 effective playing space, and surface coverage, 20 while small playing areas appear to foster technical development. 22 Some studies have investigated the relationship between different SSGs and their effect in different age categories, although, to our best knowledge, no study has been conducted with the SSG conditions presented in our study associated with the selected age categories. ...
Background
Monitoring of training tasks allows coaches to have a better knowledge of the loads applied to their players.
Objectives
The aim of this study was to analyze the variations in external load in small-sided games (SSGs) with young players U-12, U-15, and U-23 and compare the external load between age categories in each of the SSGs.
Methods
A group of 24 male soccer players performed five consecutive different formats of four vs. four SSGs composed of 3 minutes of play/rest. GPS devices were used during the tasks (WIMU PRO™). The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics 28.0, using descriptive statistics, graphical statistics, and ANOVA to compare the results between SSGs and between age groups.
Results
The increase in field areas promotes the increase of distance (DIST) covered and the high metabolic load distance (HMLd), with and without a goalkeeper (GK). The SSGs with GK recorded fewer PL values compared to SSGs without GK. In the U-12 and U-15 age groups, GK use promotes more acceleration (AC) and deceleration (DEC) of high intensity (>3 m/s ² ). The results also show that the larger areas are promoters of high-speed running (HSR). Age influences some external load variables (DIST, AC, DEC, HMLd) in the game formats studied.
Conclusions
The SSG formats analyzed using GK are promoters of high-intensity neuromuscular activity. Larger areas promote more high-speed displacement. Age is an influence on the external load in different SSGs.
... Among the possible task constraints, through the manipulation of the play area, small-sided, but also medium and large sided games have been used to constraint the individual tactical actions, but also the collective behaviour. For example, studies in football revealed that the manipulation of areas of play constraint the energy systems used (Sangnier et al., 2018) and also the tactical-technical actions of players (Sarmento et al., 2018). That is, the use of large areas promoted an increase in the intensity of the exercise (Halouani et al., 2014;Sarmento et al., 2018) while small areas tend to promote higher number of tacticaltechnical actions Sgrò et al., 2018). ...
The aim of this study was to comprehensively describe and compare the effects of different practice tasks, specifically 4 × 4, 3 × 3, 2 × 2 with goalkeepers (GK) in a 40 × 20 m field court. Forty-two male U17 players (age = 15.62 ± 0.58 years) from three futsal teams participated in the study. The tactical-technical offensive and defensive actions were measured using Videobserver® software. To measure external load (EL) and internal load (IL) during futsal tasks, the WIMU PROTM Ultra-Wideband (UWB) tracking system was used. To compare the tasks, the ANOVA for repeated measures was used. Results revealed that the reduction on the number of players contributed to increase the number of passing and shooting actions, while a generalised increase in physical and physiological responses were observed. In general, the major differences were observed between GK + 2 × 2 + GK and GK + 3 × 3 + GK in relation to GK + 4 × 4 + GK while some differences in physical and tactical-technical actions were also observed between GK + 2 × 2 + GK and GK + 3 × 3 + GK. Thus, the reduction on the number of players in large games can be considered a pedagogical strategy to promote an increase in the tactical-technical actions, such as passing and shooting actions, increasing the physical intensity of players.
Background Problems: Small-sided games (SSGs) have become a significant focus of research in the context of team sports, and a thorough review and analysis of the existing research landscape is needed to identify trends, gaps, and emerging themes. Research Objectives: This study aims to map the research landscape on small-sided games (SSGs) in the context of team sports through a bibliometric approach and a literature review. Methods: Literature was drawn from established research sources in the Scopus and Web of Science databases from 2014 to 2023. The final data used for this study consisted of 1012 articles, which were then analysed using a bibliometric approach, and the literature review was limited to 237 articles after grouping ten types of team sports using the ScientoPy tool. Findings and Results: The results showed a consistent increase in interest in SSGs, with journals such as “Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research” and “Biology of Sport” playing an important role in expanding understanding of the topic. The analysis also revealed that authors such as Clemente F.M. and Praca G.M. had a significant impact on developing knowledge about SSGs. Although football dominated the related literature, the results also highlighted other sports such as basketball, futsal, and handball. However, there is still a lack of SSG research for sports such as cricket and dodgeball. The benefits of SSGs in team sports include improved technical skills, physical fitness, tactical understanding, and physical performance. Conclusion: This study provides insight into the important role of SSGs in athlete development and team sports training and highlights the need for further research to optimise the full potential of this training method.
This study aimed to validate a simple field method for determining force- and power-velocity relationships and mechanical effectiveness of force application during sprint running. The proposed method, based on an inverse dynamic approach applied to the body center of mass, estimates the step-averaged ground reaction forces in runner's sagittal plane of motion during overground sprint acceleration from only anthropometric and spatiotemporal data. Force- and power-velocity relationships, the associated variables, and mechanical effectiveness were determined (a) on nine sprinters using both the proposed method and force plate measurements and (b) on six other sprinters using the proposed method during several consecutive trials to assess the inter-trial reliability. The low bias (<5%) and narrow limits of agreement between both methods for maximal horizontal force (638 ± 84 N), velocity (10.5 ± 0.74 m/s), and power output (1680 ± 280 W); for the slope of the force-velocity relationships; and for the mechanical effectiveness of force application showed high concurrent validity of the proposed method. The low standard errors of measurements between trials (<5%) highlighted the high reliability of the method. These findings support the validity of the proposed simple method, convenient for field use, to determine power, force, velocity properties, and mechanical effectiveness in sprint running.
© 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
The use of GPS technology for training and research purposes requires a study of the reliability, validity and accuracy of the data generated (Petersen et al., 2009). To date, studies have focused on devices with a logging rate of 1 Hz and 5 Hz (Coutts and Duffield, 2010; Duffield et al., 2010; Jennings et al., 2010; MacLeod et al., 2009; Petersen et al., 2009; Portas et al., 2010), although it seems that more frequent sampling can increase the accuracy of the information provided by these devices (Jennings et al., 2010; MacLeod et al., 2009, Portas et al., 2010). However, we are unaware of any study of the reliability and accuracy of GPS devices using a sampling frequency of 10 Hz. Thus, the aim of the present research was to determine the reliability and accuracy of GPS devices operating at a sampling frequency of 10 Hz, in relation here to sprints of 15 m and 30 m and using both video and photoelectric cells.Nine trained male athletes participated in the study. Each participant completed 7 and 6 linear runs of 15 m and 30 m, respectively (n = 117), with only one GPS device being used per participant. Each repetition required them to complete the route as quickly as possible, with 1 min recovery between sets. Distance was monitored through the use of GPS devices (MinimaxX v4.0, Catapult Innovations, Melbourne, Australia) operating at the above mentioned sampling frequency of 10 Hz. In addition, all tests were filmed with a video camera operating at a sampling frequency of 25 frames. Data were collected during what were considered to be good GPS conditions in terms of the weather and satellite conditions (number of satellites = 10.0 ± 0.2 and 10.3 ± 0.4 for sprints of 15 m and 30 m, respectively).Distance was measured using a tape measure. Electronic timing gates (TAG- Heuer, CP 520 Training model, Switzerland) were used to obtain a criterion sprint time accurate to 0.01 s, with gates being placed at the beginning and end of the route (Petersen et al., 2009). Logan Plus v.4.0 software was used to synchronize the GPS files with the video, establishing the beginning of action when the participant crossed the initial photocell; this was then added to the duration obtained through the photoelectric cells.The accuracy of data within and between devices is shown in Table 1. The average values are close to those established in tests of 15 m and 30 m, with errors getting smaller when the devices were used over 30 m.The intra-device reliability is depicted in Figure 1, showing greater stability over 30 m than 15 m. The inter-device reliability yielded a CV = 1.3% and CV = 0.7% for sprints over 15 m and 30 m, respectively.To our knowledge this is the first study to assess the reliability and accuracy of GPS devices operating at a sampling frequency of 10 Hz. A further point of note is that studies of intra- and inter-device reliability for the same model of device (and therefore the same sampling rate) have traditionally used only two devices (Duffield et al., 2010; Petersen et al., 2009), whereas here a total of nine devices were studied.The distance data were found to be highly accurate and only slightly underestimated by the GPS devices. Furthermore, high intra- and inter-device reliability was observed. Accuracy improved with increased distance, and the mean SEM of 10.9% when running 15 m was reduced by half over 30 m (Table 1). Using similar statistics and methodology, Petersen et al., 2009 found SEM values of between 5% and 24% for MinimaxX devices, and between 3% and 11% with SPI-Pro devices, both at a sampling frequency of 5 Hz. Here, only one device (number 1) produced values above 6% in the 15 m test, while another device (number 2) did so for runs of 30 m. We conclude that the increase in sampling frequency led to increased accuracy of the devices.As regards intra-device reliability, high values were obtained in all cases, and increased when used over 30 m (Figure 1). Some studies have reported differences between devices, even of the same model, suggesting that a player must always be monitored with the same device (Coutts and Duffield, 2010; Duffield et al., 2010). However, we only found small variations between devices, with a CV of 1.3% and 0.7% in runs of 15 m and 30 m, respectively. Therefore, we conclude that it is not always necessary to monitor players with the same device.
The purpose of this study was to compare heart rate (HR) responses within and between small‐sided games
(SSG) training methods in elite young soccer players. Twenty‐seven youth soccer players (age: 16.5 ± 0.5 years, height:
174.5 ± 5.5 cm, weight: 62.9 ± 8.3, velocity at maximal aerobic speed (MAS): 15.9 ± 0.9 km.h‐1) performed 3 different
SSG (2 vs. 2, 3 vs. 3, 4 vs. 4 without goalkeeper). In each SSG, HR was continuously measured and expressed as a
mean percentage of HR reserve (%HRreserve). The mean %HRreserve calculated during the SSG was significantly
lower during 4 vs. 4 (70.6 ± 5.9 %) compared to 2 vs. 2 (80.1 ± 3.6 %, p<0.001) and 3 vs. 3 (81.5 ± 4.3 %, p<0.001)
SSG. Regardless of the time spent above 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85 and 90 % of HRreserve, 4 vs. 4 solicited lower percentage
of time than 3 vs. 3 and 2 vs. 2. Intersubject coefficients of variation were significantly higher during 4 vs. 4 compared
to 2 vs.2 and 3 vs. 3. The %HRreserve after 30s of recovery was significantly higher for 3 vs. 3 (70.6 ± 5.3 %)
compared to 2 vs. 2 (65.2 ± 4.8 %, p<0.05) and 4 vs. 4 (61.6 ± 9.3 %, p<0.05). In conclusion, this study demonstrates
that the physiological demands is higher during 2 vs. 2 and 3 vs. 3 compared to 4 vs. 4 in youth soccer players. This
difference could be due to that young soccer players do not have the same technical ability and experience as adult
players and thus, their activity during the 2 vs. 2 and 3 vs. 3 induces a greater physical demand due to their lack of
experience. The age of the players could be linked with the physical demands within small‐sided games.
Key words: youth soccer players, physiological responses, reserve heart rate, fitness training, aerobic training
USING SOCCER DRILLS FOR CONDITIONING HAS CONSIDERABLE BENEFITS. HOWEVER, THE PRACTICALITIES OF CONDUCTING SUCH SESSIONS ARE MORE CHALLENGING THAN NON-SOCCER-SPECIFIC CONDITIONING METHODS. THIS ARTICLE EXAMINES FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE PHYSICAL NATURE OF SOCCER DRILLS AND PROVIDES GUIDANCE ON HOW TO OPTIMIZE TRAINING STRUCTURE WHEN USING SOCCER DRILLS FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT.
The aim of the study was to examine the extent to which changing the game format (possession play vs. regulation goals and goalkeepers vs. small goals only) and the number of players (3 vs. 3, 5 vs. 5 and 7 vs. 7) influenced the physiological and physical demands of small-sided soccer games (SSGs) in amateurs and semi-professional players. Fourteen semi-professional male soccer players were monitored with GPS and heart-rate devices. Heart rate, player-load, distance covered, running speed and the number of accelerations were recorded for nine different SSGs. The results show that changes both in game format and the number of players affect the players' physiological and physical demands. Possession play places greater physiological and physical demands on players, although reducing the number of players only increases the physiological load. In the 7 vs. 7 games, changing the game format did not alter the heart rate responses. Finally, in the possession play format, changing the number of players did not produce significant differences in heart rate responses, although physical demands did decrease in line with a reduction in the number of players. These results should help coaches to understand how modifying different aspects of SSGs has a differential effect on the players' physiological and physical demands. Moreover, coaches in semi-professional and amateurs have now consistent information's to design and optimize their training time in mixing the technical, tactical and physical aspects.
This study aims to examine the difference in heart rate (HR) responses and technical activities placed upon European elite players when exposed to 2-sided games differing in the number of players and playing area. Fifteen male soccer players from a Scottish Premier League team (26.3 ± 4.85 years, 182.4 ± 6.99 cm, 79.5 ± 8.05 kg, VO2max of 54.36 ± 5.45 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1)) performed both small (3 vs. 3 plus goalkeepers) and large (9 vs. 9 plus goalkeepers) sided games each lasting for 3 × 5 minutes interspersed with 4-minute passive recovery during the 2009-2010 season. The HR responses and players' technical actions were recorded throughout all sided games. Results show that small-sided games (SSG) induced significantly (p < 0.05, large effect) higher HR responses as compared to large-sided games. Furthermore, during SSGs, players spent significantly longer time in the >85% maximal HR zone (p < 0.05, large effect) as compared to large-sided games. Technical analysis revealed a large practical difference (effect size ranged from 1.5 to 21.2) between small- and large-sided games: less number of blocks, headers, interceptions, passes, and receives but more dribbles, shots, and tackles in SSG. Furthermore, SSG induced significantly lesser total ball contacts per game (p < 0.05, large effect) but significantly greater ball contacts per individual (p < 0.05, large effect) when compared to larger-sided games. The different technical requirements also enable coaches to carry out training games more suitable to specific playing positions such as SSG for midfielders (more dribbles, tackles, and ball contacts per player) strikers (more shots), and large-sided games for defender (more blocks, headers, and interceptions).
This study compared the physical demands of friendly matches (FMs) and small-sided games (SGs) in semiprofessional soccer players by means of global positioning system technology. Twenty-seven semiprofessional soccer players were monitored during 7 FMs and 9 sessions involving different SGs. Their physical profile was described on the basis of 20 variables related to distances and frequencies at different running speeds, the number of accelerations, and through global indicators of workload such as the work:rest ratio, player workload, and the exertion index. Results showed significant differences (p < 0.01) between SGs and FMs for the following variables: overall workload (SG > FM); the distribution of the distance covered in the speed zones 7.0-12.9 km·h(-1) (SG > FM) and >21 km·h(-1) (FM > SG); the distribution of time spent in certain speed zones (FM > SG: 0.0-6.9 and >21 km·h(-1); FM > SG: 7.0-12.9 km·h(-1)). More sprints per hour of play were performed during FMs, with greater mean durations and distances, greater maximum durations and distances, and a greater frequency per hour of play for sprints of 10-40 and >40 m (p < 0.01). The frequency of repeated high-intensity efforts was higher during FM (p < 0.01). The results show that coaches and strength and conditioning professionals should consider FMs during their training routine to foster specific adaptations in the domain of high-intensity effort.
Small-sided games (SSGs) have been suggested as a method for concurrently training physical, technical and tactical capabilities of rugby union players. Therefore, it is important to understand how prescriptive variables such as player number and field size influence the training stimulus during rugby-specific SSGs. Twenty semiprofessional rugby union players participated in a series of SSGs of varying player numbers (4 vs. 4, 6 vs. 6, and 8 vs. 8) on small- (32 × 24 m) and large-sized fields (64 × 48 m). The physiological (blood lactate concentration and heart rate [HR]), perceptual (rating of perceived exertion [RPE]), and time-motion demands were assessed for each different SSG format. There were significant differences between the 4 vs. 4, 6 vs. 6, and 8 vs.8 SSG formats in mean speed (meters per minute), high-speed running (HSR) distance (meters), and RPE (all p < 0.05). Blood lactate was greater in 4 vs. 4 compared with that in 8 vs. 8 SSGs. The mean speed, HSR distance, number of sprints, peak speed, blood lactate concentration, and RPE were all significantly different between large- and small-field size (all p < 0.05). There were no significant difference between game formats (4 vs. 4, 6 vs. 6, and 8 vs. 8) or field size (small or large) for either percent HRmax or time spent >85% HRmax. These results show that SSGs with fewer players and larger field sizes elicit greater physiological and perceptual responses and time-motion demands. In contrast, the HR response was similar between all SSG formats, which may be attributable to high levels of individual variability in the HR response. This study provides new information about the influence of player number and field size on the training stimulus provided by rugby-specific SSGs.
The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between the playing level in soccer (i.e., amateur vs. professional players) and the physiological impact, perceptual responses, time-motion characteristics, and technical activities during various small-sided games (SSGs). Twenty international players (27.4 ± 1.5 years and 17.4 ± 0.8 km·h(-1) of vVO(2)max) and 20 amateur players of the fourth French division (26.3 ± 2.2 years and 17.0 ± 1.2 km·h(-1) of vVO(2)max) played 9 SSGs (i.e., 2 vs. 2, 3 vs. 3, and 4 vs. 4) in which the number of ball touches authorized by possession varied (1 ball touch authorized = 1T, 2 ball touches authorized = 2T, and Free Play = FP). Heart rate (HR), blood lactate ([La]), subjective perception of effort (rating of perceived exertion [RPE]), physical performance, and technical performance of all players were analyzed during all SSGs. Across the various SSGs, amateurs completed a lower percent of successful passes (p < 0.01), recorded higher RPE and [La] values, lost a greater amount of ball possessions (p < 0.001), and covered less total distance with respect to sprinting and high-intensity running (HIR). The HR responses, however, were similar when expressed as %HRmax and %HRreserve. The comparison of the professional and amateur soccer players' activities during SSGs showed that the playing level influenced the physiological responses, physical and technical activities. Consequently, this study has shown that the main differences between elite and amateur players within SSGs concerned their capacity to perform high-intensity actions (HIR and sprints) and execute various technical abilities (in particular number of ball lost per possession and percentage of successful passes).