Effects of different loads used in post-activation potentiation exercises on sprint and vertical jump performance of young amateur soccer players

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different loads used in post-activation potentiation (PAP) exercises on the vertical jump and sprint performance of young amateur soccer players. Materials and methods: Twelve young amateur soccer players (age: 16.3 ± 1.2 years; height: 172.6 ± 3.88 cm; body weight: 63.2 ± 6.7 kg; training experience: 2.3 ± 1.4 years) participated voluntarily. The half squat exercise was performed in unloaded conditions and at three different intensities (L1:80%, L2: 90%, and L3: 100% of one-repetition maximum [1RM]), and its effects on players' countermovement jump (CMJ) and 30 m sprint (with 10 m split times) performance after four min recovery duration were examined. Results: The results showed that the players were significantly better in CMJ, 10-, and 30-m sprint performance in the L1 condition compared to the unloaded condition (p < 0.05). Conclusions: It is recommended that coaches and sports scientists increase the PAP effect following heavy resistance training. 80% of 1RM load was more appropriate than 90% or 100% of 1RM in young amateur soccer players.