The effect of a 4-week sprint training program on sprint ability of female soccer players: a single-subject research design

Introduction: Understanding the evolving requirements of soccer is a key part of implementing an effective training strategy for soccer players. A change in modern soccer has led to an increased number of sprints a player performs, and the total sprint distance he covers during a game. Therefore, a greater emphasis should be placed on improving sprint ability than before. Objectives: 1. To develop a sprint training program for soccer players, A) Measure the effect of the training program on sprint speed, B) Measure the effect of the training program on sprint biomechanics Method: Using single-subject design three female football players aged 16-17 were tested in a 10 m-, and 40 m sprint test during a baseline-, and intervention period. Also, video analysis was used to study changes in sprint biomechanics from before and after the intervention. Results: Small improvements were noted in both sprint tests, and in general the sprint times were on a downward trend during the intervention period. In contrast, the changes to sprint biomechanics were more notable. Several variables such as thigh angle at contralateral foot strike, greater thigh lift angle, and minimum knee joint angle saw significant changes after the intervention in both the initial acceleration and maximal velocity. Conclusion: Sprint ability can be altered by a short-term sprint training program, it mainly affects sprint biomechanics, with some variables linked to faster sprinting being improved. Finally, the program can also lead to small improvements in sprinting speed.

Author dc:creator

• Gunnar Guðmundsson 1995-

Contributors dc:contributor

• Háskólinn í Reykjavík

• Íþróttavísindi og þjálfun
• Meistaraprófsritgerðir
• Knattspyrna
• Spretthlaup
• Þjálfun
• Exercise science and coaching
• Soccer
• Sprinting
• Caoching (Athletics)

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1946/42921

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:skemman.is:1946/42921