The aim of this study was to analyse the effects of a combined strength-training programme (full-back squat, YoYo leg curl, plyometrics and sled towing exercises) on performance in elite young soccer players and to examine the effects when this training programme was performed one or two days per week. Thirty-six male soccer players (U-17 to U-19) were recruited and assigned to experimental groups (EXP1: 1 s w; EXP2: 2 s w) or a control group (CON). Performance was assessed through a countermovement jump (CMJ) test (relative peak power [CMJ] and CMJ height [CMJ]), a 20-m linear sprint test with split-times at 10-m, and a change of direction test (V-cut test) 1 week before starting the training programme and also 1 week after performing such training programme. Within-group analysis showed substantial improvements in CMJ variables (ES: 0.39-0.81) and COD (ES: 0.70 and 0.76) in EXP1 and EXP2, while EXP2 also showed substantial enhancements in all linear sprinting tests (ES: 0.43-0.52). Between-group analysis showed substantially greater improvements in CMJ variables (ES: 0.39-0.68) in experimental groups in comparison to CON. Furthermore, EXP2 achieved a substantial better performance in 20-m (ES: 0.48-0.64) than EXP1 and CON. Finally, EXP2 also showed greater enhancements in 10-m (ES: 0.50) and V-cut test (ES: 0.52) than EXP1. In conclusion, the combined strength-training programme improved jumping ability, independently of training frequency, though the achievement of two sessions per week also enhanced sprinting abilities (linear and COD) in young soccer players.
The whole body vibrations (WBV) it is nowadays one of the most widely used methods for improving the explosive strength. This seems to produce similar effects than those found after applying a eccentric-concentric cycle. In this study, 12 subjects participating in recreational physical activity were allocated to 5 sets of 60 s of WBV exposure, using a frequency of 30 Hz, and 2.5 mm of amplitude, maintaining an static position (110 ° bending knees) on a vibratory platform (Galileo Fitness®; Novotech, Germany). The results showed an increase (not significant) in SJ (+1.76 ± 4.05 cm) and CMJ (+1.10 ± 3.20 cm) in the post-test conducted just after the vibration. The values of the post-test performed 30 min after SJ remained above the pretest ones but just below the immediate post-test ones (+0.42 ± 4.43 cm). By contrast, the values in CMJ dropped below the pre-test ones (-0.12 ± 2.45 cm). Based on these data it seems that when the frequency is not high it is necessary to use greater amplitude in order to achieve the desired effects. The effect achieved after the vibration is transient, not remaining after 30 min.
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