SOCCER PERFORMANCE

This trial tests whether adding small-sided games—like 2v2 and 3v3 matches on reduced pitches—to regular training can boost aerobic endurance and passing accuracy in adolescent soccer players. Eighteen male players aged 17-18 will be split into two groups: one doing small-sided g…

This study looked at whether taking astaxanthin, a natural supplement, for four weeks could help soccer players keep up their skills even when tired. Thirty healthy male college soccer players took either astaxanthin or a placebo. After four weeks, they did a very hard exercise r…

This study tested whether guided imagery training—where athletes mentally practice movements—can improve shooting accuracy and psychological skills in adolescent football players. Thirty-two boys aged 12 to 14 were randomly assigned to either receive 15 minutes of guided imagery …

This study tested whether shorter, more frequent plyometric training sessions (micro-dosed) work as well as traditional longer sessions for improving speed and jumping in elite under-19 soccer players. Twenty-four players from a top youth club followed an 8-week program, with one…

This study looked at 53 male U19 soccer players in Norway to see if functional strength training (like bodyweight and movement-based exercises) or traditional strength training (like weight machines) improves soccer performance more during the off-season. Players did 8 weeks of t…