Document Type : Research Paper I Open Access I Released under (CC BY-NC 4.0) license
Authors
1
Master's degree in Applied Exercise Physiology, Kharazmi University
2
Department of Sport Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
3
Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Background Aim and: This study aims to identify functional changes and evaluate key variables related to physical fitness during training and competitions.
Materials and Methods: This research was applied in nature and utilized a longitudinal design within a single group, including a pre-test at the beginning of the season and multiple post-tests throughout the season (12 weeks). The sample consisted of 21 male youth soccer players from the AsyaVision Premier League in Tehran Province, with a mean age of 17.67 ± 0.83 years, a mean height of 177.1 ± 6.07 cm, and a mean weight of 72.3 ± 4.31 kg. Participants completed tests for peak physical capacity, Wingate anaerobic power, Bruce aerobic power, Hoff aerobic test, and leg strength at the start of the second half and end of the season. Statistical covariance analysis and t-tests were used to compare initial and final seasonal changes. Additionally, weekly monitoring of 20-meter sprint speed, T-agility, vertical jump, and muscular endurance (sit-ups) was conducted. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze weekly changes in these variables.
Results: In this study, there was a significant increase in Wingate anaerobic power factors, Bruce aerobic power, and Hoff aerobic test, indicating the effect of the intensity of training programs in the second half of the season (P<0.005). However, 12-week monitoring of other factors, including muscular endurance (P=0.421), speed (P=0.203), agility (P=0.354), and vertical jump (P=0.268), showed no significant changes, maintaining baseline levels.
Conclusion: Continuous monitoring throughout the competitive season is crucial in optimizing athletic performance and preventing excessive fatigue and overtraining. Youth soccer training and competitions in Iran positively influence some aspects of fitness, creating relative stability in others across the training period, indicating both improvement and sustainability in specific fitness components.
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