Effects of strength training based on velocity versus traditional training on muscle mass, neuromuscular activation, and indicators of maximal power and strength in girls soccer players

This study examines the effects of two strength training (ST) programs, one based on mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and another under the traditional method, the % one-repetition maximum (1 RM), on neuromuscular performance and muscle composition in girls who play soccer. Fifty players with an average age of 13.6 +/- 1.2 years participated in the study and were randomly assigned into three groups: a maximal execution velocity training group (VG, n=15), a maximal strength group (RMG, n=13), and a control group (CG, n=18). The study was developed for a period of twelve weeks during regular team training to prepare for the season. The VG and RMG groups performed additional strength or muscle power training three times a week, including movements of full squat and pedaling on a cycle ergometer. The two types of training groups and the control group exhibited significant gains. However, the greatest increases were achieved with VG training, with significant increases (p < 0.000) in maximal strength, (p < 0.000) squat power, (p < 0.000) velocity over 30 m, (p < 0.000) cycle ergometer power, and (p < 0.008) lower limb muscle mass. Statistically significant differences were observed between VG and RMG in countermovement jump (CMJ) (p < 0.008) and squat power (p < 0.01) tests, between VG and CG in CMJ (p < 0.01), squat power (p < 0.000), and maximal squat strength (p < 0.000), and between RMG and CG in maximal squat strength (p < 0.000) only. These findings might indicate that high-velocity ST can be performed simultaneously with regular training to improve the explosive actions of soccer players.