The Effect of Pubertal Status on Post-activation Performance Enhancement in Young Soccer Players

Post-activation performance enhancement (PAPE) occurs when performance improves after intense contractile stimulation. This study examined the effect of pubertal status on PAPE after a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) in 48 male soccer players aged 10-18 years. Additionally, we investigated the relationship between maximal aerobic speed (MAS) and lower limb strength. They were classified as pre-pubescent (n=13), pubescent (n=15), and post-pubescent (n=20). The participants performed three countermovement jumps (CMJ) before and after a maximal CPET. The PAPE was estimated by calculating the difference between pre- and post-exercise CMJ height at five minutes of recovery after CPET. The CPET was performed on a treadmill using a ramp protocol to determine the maximal oxygen consumption (VO ₂ max) and MAS. CMJ height was significantly greater after the CPET for all groups. Post-pubescent participants had significantly greater PAPE than both pre-pubescents and pubescents. Pre-pubescents had significantly lower CMJ height, VO ₂ max, and MAS compared to pubescent and post-pubescents. Finally, a positive relationship was observed between MAS and CMJ height. In conclusion, PAPE after maximal CPET was observed in all pubertal cohorts of young soccer players. However, it was greater in post-pubescent children. Finally, MAS was positively correlated with lower limbs strength.