Metodología de entrenamiento integral vs enfoque tradicional para el desarrollo del rendimiento físico en futbolistas de 12-14 años

Introduction: This study focused on the comparison between the comprehensive training methodology and the traditional methodology in young footballers aged 12 to 14; a critical phase in their physical development. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of physical exercise in comprehensive training compared to traditional methods. Methodology: Quasi-experimental study that employed a sample of 60 soccer players from the Schools of the Prefecture of Manabí-Ecuador, divided into two groups (experimental and control, n=30 each) over a period of 12 months. The experimental group used comprehensive training contextualized in football, while the control group used traditional methods. The measured variables were explosive strength, speed in the 20m sprint, and average endurance through specific tests, and the level of significance was evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: The analysis of physical performance was conducted, demonstrating that both training modalities are positively associated with the development of endurance (Group 1: p=0.24; Group 2: p=0.14). In the 20-meter sprint, the results obtained were (Group 1: p=<0.001; Group 2: p=<0.001) as well as for explosive power (Group 1: p=<0.005; Group 2: p=<0.009). Discussion: Comprehensive training seems to allow for a more balanced physical development in young footballers compared to the traditional approach, supporting previous studies that opted for more integrated training approaches. Conclusions: An integrated approach should be employed in the training of young footballers to achieve optimal development not only in speed, power, and endurance but also a considerable improvement in the athlete's overall physical condition.