Aerobic Capacity Differences among Elite and Sub-elite Young Female Soccer Players: A Longitudinal Comparison by Competition Level and Playing Position

Introduction The study investigated the aerobic capacity differences of female soccer players according to performance level and playing position and explored longitudinal trends among elite players over two decades. Methods Female soccer players (N = 68, age = 23.33 ± 3.55 years, weight = 58.91 ± 7.70 kg, height = 164.03 ± 6.20 cm) were assessed for maximal oxygen uptake (V̇O2max), velocity at V̇O2max (vV̇O2max), heart rate (HR), anaerobic threshold (AT), and velocity at AT (vAT). Data for the same aerobic indicators from both former 2004 Olympic Team members and current National Team players were used to examine changes over time. Results One-way ANOVA revealed significant differences in aerobic performance across performance levels, but not between playing positions. A decline in aerobic capacity indicators was observed over the 20 years among elite players. Discussion These findings challenge the assumption that higher competition level equates to superior aerobic fitness and underscore the role of tailored training programs. They highlight the importance of individualized conditioning strategies aligned with players’ specific needs, regardless of their competitive tier. The apparent absence of significant positional differences may also reflect a lack of specialized endurance training across different field roles. Conclusion The results emphasize the need for ongoing physiological monitoring to support long-term player development, ensure optimal training loads, and guide evidence-based decision-making for coaches and practitioners. The inclusion of longitudinal data enables a better understanding of trends in aerobic capacity over time and informs future conditioning strategies in elite women’s soccer.