The effects of speed endurance training on aerobic and anaerobic performance of young female soccer players

Introduction: This study examines the impact of speed endurance training on the aerobic and anaerobic capacities of young female soccer players. The research focuses on assessing the physiological adaptations resulting from structured high-intensity training, which is crucial for enhancing soccer performance.Methodology: Thirty female soccer players, aged 14–18 years, were randomly assigned to ei-ther an experimental group or a control group. The experimental group participated in speed endurance training sessions twice per week for six weeks while continuing their regular soccer training regimen. In contrast, the control group followed their standard soccer training pro-gram without additional speed endurance exercises.Results: The experimental group demonstrated significant physiological improvements com-pared to the control group. Specifically, aerobic capacity improved notably, with a 68.8% in-crease in Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) distance and a10.2% increase in VO₂max, indicating enhanced cardiovascular endurance. Additionally, the reduction in rest-ing heart rate suggested improved cardiovascular efficiency. In terms of anaerobic perfor-mance, the athletes who underwent speed endurance training exhibited a 35.6% improvement in anaerobic capacity and a 38.3% increase in anaerobic power. Furthermore, their fatigue in-dex decreased, reflecting better sprinting ability and improved recovery. When compared to the control group, which showed minimal physiological progress, these results highlight the superior benefits of speed endurance training over regular soccer training alone.Conclusion: The findings confirm that incorporating speed endurance training in soccer en-hances both endurance and power production capabilities, leading to improved overall perfor-mance. Given these advantages, coaches and trainers should integrate structured speed endur-ance drills into training regimens