The effect of combined training on players' body composition and their performance in beach soccer

Background and Study Aim. Beach soccer is a high-intensity sport requiring a combination of aerobic capacity, strength, agility, and coordination, making training strategies crucial for optimizing performance and physical fitness. Evaluating the impact of specific training regimens can provide insights into effective methods to enhance players' capabilities. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a six-week combined training program on body composition and performance parameters in beach soccer players. Material and Methods: A total of 26 beach soccer players voluntarily participated in the study. The athletes were divided into two groups: an exercise group and a control group. Training programs were implemented for both groups over a period of six weeks. Body composition and performance tests, including sit and reach, 20-meter sprint, vertical jump, long jump, and Illinois agility, were applied to both groups twice: at the beginning of the study and at the end of the six-week training period. The data obtained were analyzed using paired samples t-test and Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test with the SPSS software. The significance level was set at p < .05. Results. A significant difference was found between the pre-test and post-test results for several variables in the exercise group. These variables included body fat percentage, body fat mass, sit and reach, 20-meter sprint, vertical jump, long jump, and Illinois agility tests (p < .05). Conclusions. These findings highlight the effectiveness of sport-specific combined training in enhancing both physical fitness and athletic performance. Incorporating such programs into the training routines of beach soccer athletes can be a valuable strategy for optimizing their competitive capabilities.