Effects of Combined Plyometric and Sprint Training on Sprint Performance in Youth Soccer Players

Background/Objectives: Plyometrics is a widely used method to enhance the physical performance of athletes. Studies have demonstrated that the effectiveness of plyometrics increases when combined with other training methods. This study aims to determine whether the direct combination of plyometric and sprint training improves linear sprint speed and change-of-direction speed in youth soccer players. Methods: Twenty-eight male youth soccer players were randomly assigned to an intervention group (INT, n = 14, 12.9 ± 0.4 years) and a control group (CON, n = 14, 12.9 ± 0.7 years). The INT group performed two sessions per week, each including nine drop jumps, followed by a hurdle jump and one sprint. The CON group only performed nine sprints without any jumps. Both groups continued their regular soccer training over the 20-week intervention period. Pre- and post-intervention tests included 5 m, 10 m, and 30 m linear sprints and a modified agility t-test for change-of-direction speed. Results: Largest improvements were observed in the INT group (5 m = 6.7%, 10 m = 4.8%, 30 m = 2.7%, change-of-direction speed = 3.6%, 3.1%). A significant difference between the groups was noted for the 10 m sprint distance (p = 0.02). Furthermore, moderate to large correlations between linear sprint speed and change-of-direction speed were found in both groups (r = 0.33–0.82). Conclusions: Results suggest that the direct combination of plyometric training and sprint training over a 20-week period can improve both linear sprint speed and change-of-direction speed in youth soccer players, thus enhancing physical performance.