The effect of a minimal-equipment resistance priming protocol on 24-hour neuromuscular performance in U19 male soccer players: A randomized crossover trial

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of a priming protocol based on vertical and horizontal drop jumps and 20-m sprints, performed before field training session on the neuromuscular performance and perceptual responses in U19 soccer players 24 hours later. Thirteen male soccer players participated in a randomized crossover trial. Countermovement jump (CMJ) was assessed at baseline, post-training field, and 24 hours later. Short recovery stress scale, visual analogue scale and 20-m sprint were assessed at baseline and 24 hours post-intervention. In the priming condition, a moderate reduction in 20-m sprint time was observed 24 hours after (d = −0.71), with 5 of 13 players exceeding the smallest worthwhile change. However, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found between conditions. Furthermore, no improvements in CMJ performance were observed 24 h after priming condition. In the control condition, peak propulsive force (−4.09%; p = 0.004; d = −1.35) and peak braking force (−4.03%; p = 0.011; d = −1.18) decreased after field training. However, these impairments were not observed in the priming condition (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that priming protocol may improve sprint time in some players, although the CMJ response remained unclear.