The relationship between internal and external load in intensive ball drills in young sportspeople

Riassunto

The aim of this preliminary study was to analyse the training load produced by two physically demanding technical-tactical drills in soccer players of different age groups. Sixteen male players (U16: n = 8, U15: n = 8) performed 2 small-sided games (SSGs) drills: a 4 vs 4 possession in a “double square” pitch (3 x 4-min), and an “in/out” possession with regular goals and goalkeepers (20-min total duration, 2 vs 2 to 4 vs 4). The external load was monitored using a GPS device, and the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) was recorded at the end of each session. The 4 vs 4 possession showed a higher training intensity than the “in/out” drill as revealed by higher average metabolic power, distance covered per minute, equivalent distance per minute, and RPE. On the contrary, the percentage equivalent distance, and high intensity acceleration/deceleration were higher in the “in/out” possession. These differences between examined drills were observed both in the U15 and U16 age group. Finally, in both the drills and for all examined load variables, the training intensity was overall higher in the U16 than in the U15 group. In conclusion, the 4 vs. 4 possession is more physically challenging than the “in/out” possession, being more focused on physical than on technical aspects. U16 players are more capable than U15 to produce the maximum effort in the 4 vs 4, and thus are more ready to perform optimally that kind of drill.

Parole chiave

Percorso di valutazione

Peer reviewed. Certificazione della qualità