Effects of Complex Training on Sprint, Jump, and Change of Direction Ability of Soccer Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of complex training (CT) on sprint, jump, and change of direction (COD) ability among soccer players. After an electronic search, 10 peer-reviewed articles were considered in the meta-analysis. The athletes included in this meta-analysis were amateur to professional level male soccer players (age range, 14-23 years). These studies incorporated CT in soccer players who were compared to a control group. Significant moderate to large improvements were observed in the CT group [sprint: standard mean difference (SMD) = 0.92-1.91; jump: SMD = 0.96-1.58; COD: SMD = 0.97-1.49] when compared to control groups. Subgroup analysis were also conducted based on age, duration, and competitive level. The beneficial effects of CT were greater in players <18 vs. >= 18 years (linear sprinting; SMD = 2.01 vs. -0.13), after >= 8 vs. <8 weeks (jumping and COD; SMD = 1.55-2.01 vs. 0.31-0.64, respectively) and among professional vs. amateur players (linear sprinting and with COD; SMD = 1.53-1.58 vs. 0.08-0.63, respectively). In conclusion, regular soccer training programs may be supplemented with CT to improve sprint, jump, and COD performance. A longer duration of CT (>= 8 weeks) seems to be optimal in improving the physical abilities of soccer players. Professional players and <18 years players may benefit more from CT program.

Automated summary

This meta-analysis examined the effects of complex training (CT) on sprint, jump, and change of direction (COD) ability among soccer players. Significant improvements were observed in the CT group, especially among players under 18 years old, training for more than 8 weeks, and professional athletes.