THE IMPACT OF SMALL-SIDED GAME INTERVALS ON PHYSICAL FITNESS IN U17 MALE SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYERS: AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY
Abstract
Aim. This study aims to identify the effect of interval training in small-sided games on the physical fitness of U17 male football players in school settings. Materials and methods. This study presents a mixed-method approach, including a literature review, an experimental method, and the Delphi method. The latter was used to select nine testing parameters of the most relevance for U17 male football players. Results. Interval training in small-sided games with constant and decreasing work periods led to significant improvements in speed, strength, flexibility, coordination, and endurance in U17 male football players (p < 0.05). Furthermore, training with decreasing intervals was more effective for developing speed, strength, and endurance. Conclusion. Small-sided games with decreasing intervals showed the best results in the enhancement of speed, strength, and endurance among U17 male football players compared to training with constant intervals.
