The effect of resistance training focused on eccentric phase and interval exercises in young football players

The cardiovascular system, strength, speed, and agility are essential for a football player to perform better. For this purpose, finding the best and shortest way has always been a challenge. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effect of resistance training focused on eccentric phase and interval exercises on strength, agility, speed, and cardio strength in young football players.40 young football players are divided into two groups. The control group (CG) received only typical football exercises (by their coach), and the experimental group (EG) experienced eccentric exercises combined with interval aerobic training. To measure strength, agility, speed, and cardio strength, the Squat test, T-test, 60-meter sprint, and Cooper test were performed, respectively. To compare pre and post-test, paired sample t-test was utilized, and compare the two groups ANCOVA and Quade Nonparametric Analysis of Covariance test were used. The paired sample t-test showed a significant difference between pre and post-test in strength and cardiac strength in both groups. However, no significant difference was observed in speed and agility in CG. However, in EG, there was a significant difference between the pre and post-test in speed and agility variables. Also, according to the ANCOVA and Quade Nonparametric ANCOVA results, there was a significant difference between CG and EG in all variables. Eccentric and interval aerobic training could be more effective than typical football exercises on strength, cardio, speed, and agility. Football players can use the present program training to improve the essential physical factors. Keywords: Strength, Agility, Sprint, Male.