Impact of on-field repeated sprint training on aerobic fitness and anaerobic performance in football athletes: A matched-pair design.

Abstract

Repeated sprint ability (RSA) is essential for football performance, especially in maintaining high-intensity efforts throughout a match. Repeated sprint training (RST) improves both aerobic and anaerobic capacities; however, its effects on players in different positional roles remain underexplored, particularly with regard to tailored conditioning protocols. This study assessed the impact of on-field RST on physical performance metrics, including aerobic capacity (VO₂max), sprint speed (10m DASH), vertical jump height (VJH), and power output, with a focus on positional differences among forwards, defenders, and goalkeepers. Forty male football players (aged 18-25 years) were purposively sampled and matched by position before allocation into experimental (RST) and control groups. The experimental group completed a structured four-week RST program, while the control group continued routine football training involving technical, tactical, and endurance drills. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included the Cooper Test (aerobic capacity), VO₂max, VJH, power output, and 10m DASH. After 4 weeks of RST, significant mprovements were observed in the experimental group. VO2max increased by 4.4 ml/kg/min (95% CI: 2.9 to 6.0; p < 0.001, d = 1.31), and 10m sprint time decreased by 0.32 seconds (95% CI: -0.45 to -0.19; p < 0.001, d = 1.36) in forwards. VJH improved significantly (p < 0.001) among defenders (Δ = 3.44 cm, 95% CI: 1.76 to 5.12, d = 1.06), while power improvements were most notable in defenders (Δ = 43.44W, 95% CI: 28.62 to 58.26, d = 1.00). Goalkeepers showed modest, non-significant improvements. Significant positional differences were identified for VJH and power output (p < 0.001). RST significantly enhanced physical performance metrics, particularly for forwards and defenders. The findings emphasize the importance of positional specificity in training programs to optimize football performance.