Experimental Study on How 10 weeks of Combined Height Interval Intensity Training (HIIT) and Plyometric Training Can Affect Explosive Power in U17 Football Players

Abstract

Background and Study Aim: Examining how a ten-week training program combining high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and plyometric exercise can affect explosive strength levels among under 17-year-old football players.

Material and Methods: Twenty male football players from the Algerian U17 national team were randomly divided into two groups: a control group that followed standard football training (CG; n = 10, age = 15.6±0.52; height (m) = 1.732±0.055; weight (kg) = 63.5±4.9; years of experience = 14.3±4.3) and the High Intensity Interval Training group who underwent an additional weekly plyometric training session for ten consecutive weeks (HIITG; n = 10, age = 15.70±0.5; height (m) = 1.7±0.3; weight (kg) = 58.9 ± 66; years of experience = 14.3 ±4.3). All participants were assessed by two tests: a squat jump test (to measure jump flight time) and a horizontal jump test (to calculate the highest jump).

Results: This study found that HIITG who followed a high-intensity interval training program performed better on the squat jump test (t = -4.752, p = 0.001) and the horizontal jump test (t = -3.160, p = 0.005) with a significant interaction compared to CG.

Conclusionsː This study has provided valuable information for football coaches wishing to optimise vertical jump heights in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) programs aimed at improving explosive strength in players under the age of 17. The application of these results could potentially improve player performance during football matches and reduce injuries.