Unveiling anaerobic soccer training: comparing its effects with small-sided games on youth performance enhancement

Background and Study Aim. Soccer is a high-intensity sport that requires players to maintain optimal physical performance over an extended period. This has led to the development of various training methods to enhance both aerobic and anaerobic energy systems. Small-Sided Games (SSG) is a popular training method in soccer, as it improves both technical skills and fitness. However, its effectiveness in developing anaerobic capacity still requires further investigation. Therefore, this study aims to compare the effects of Anaerobic Soccer Training (AnST) and SSG on aerobic and anaerobic performance in young soccer players. Material and Methods. A randomized trial was conducted on 25 male soccer players (AnST: n = 16; SSG: n = 9) aged 18 to 21 years. The average (mean ± SD) values were: age 19 ± 0.65 years, body weight 61.88 ± 5.28 kg, height 167 ± 5.50 cm, and body mass index (BMI) 21.84 ± 2.01. The intervention lasted six weeks. Aerobic capacity was assessed using a 2400-meter run test. Anaerobic performance was evaluated through average power, minimum power, peak power, and fatigue index. Statistical analysis included paired t-tests and percentage change calculations. Results. The findings indicate that both AnST and SSG significantly improved aerobic performance. The AnST group showed a greater relative increase (Δ% = 7.23%) compared to the SSG group (Δ% = 5.06%). For anaerobic performance, AnST produced a significant increase in average power (Δ% = 16.80%, p < 0.001) and minimum power (Δ% = 28.60%, p < 0.001). Changes in peak power and fatigue index were not statistically significant. Conclusions. Anaerobic Soccer Training (AnST) and Small-Sided Games (SSG) are both effective in improving aerobic and anaerobic capacities in young soccer players. AnST demonstrated greater gains, likely due to its higher training intensity.