Variations in cumulative workload and anaerobic power in adolescent elite male football players: associations with biological maturation

BackgroundIt is considered that the maturity condition of young football players is related to their physical performance during short high-intensity efforts dependent on anaerobic power ability. Hence, the aim was to determine possible relationships between maturity status and training intensity by measuring the footballer ' s peak height velocity (PHV), maturity offset and anaerobic power.MethodsSeventeen youth male players of different playing positions participated in the study and performed tests at three different stages of the season (early-, mid- and end-season) All the anthropometric parameters and biomarkers related to maturation were controlled during the season. The training intensity and load was monitored and the anaerobic power of the players was assessed by a running-based anaerobic sprint test (RAST).ResultsThe analysis of all the recorded data revealed a positive relationship between PHV and anaerobic power in the early- and end-season stages (p < 0.05). Maturity offset and anaerobic power (mean RAST) showed an absolute correlation in early- and end -season stages (r: - 0.39 to 0.91). The multiple linear regression analysis revealed that min RAST was the best predictor for both PHV and maturity offset. The analysis of the training intensity and workloads showed a positive effect on the performance in the fitness test (p < 0.05). Additionally, players experienced less fatigue at the end-season stage than at the early-season.ConclusionsThe results show that coaches might benefit from monitoring training loads and the maturity status of the players in order to enhance their physical performance during the season.

Automated summary

This study aimed to examine the relationship between maturity status and training intensity in young football players. The results showed a positive correlation between peak height velocity (PHV) and anaerobic power in the early- and end-season stages, as well as an absolute correlation between maturity offset and anaerobic power. The findings suggest that coaches can enhance the physical performance of players by monitoring training loads and maturity status.