Effects of two different small-sided games protocols on physiological parameters of professional soccer players

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of two different small-sided game protocols on the internal and external training parameters of professional soccer players. Twenty-two (N = 22) Greek Superleague 2 team players (age: 28.69 +/- 3.4yr.; stature: 179.0 +/- 25 cm; body mass: 76.0 +/- 5.6 kg; body fat: 7.68 +/- 1.5 %) participated in this study. The small-sided games (SSGs) included two research protocols+: A) 6+6 vs 6+6+2GK (45x40 m; 150m(2) per player) with a duration of 4x4 min and B) 10 vs 10+2GK (75x65 m; 244 m(2) per player) with a duration of 4x8min. The heart rate of the players, the covered distances, the amount of sprints and the number of accelerations/decelerations were recorded during the above protocols via shortrange radio telemetry (Polar Team Sports System). The t-test (paired samples) was used to compare the differences between the two SSGs protocols. The results showed that the 6+6 vs 6+6+2GK SSGs induced significantly higher heart rate in relation to the 10 vs 10+2GK SSGs (p <.05). Furthermore, during the 10 vs 10+2GK SSGs the players covered more distances with high speed, while during the 6+6 vs 6+6+2GK SSGs a great number of accelerations and decelerations were recorded. Summarizing, the studied SSGs protocols resulted in different physical adaptations regarding the intensity, endurance and strength of the professional players. Thus, the trainers should carefully select the appropriate program focusing on the orientation of their training and the expected results.

Automated summary

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of two different small-sided game protocols on the internal and external training parameters of professional soccer players. The results showed that the two protocols induced different physical adaptations in terms of intensity, endurance, and strength, suggesting the importance of carefully selecting appropriate training programs based on desired outcomes.