CHRONIC ADAPTATIONS TO COMPLEX AND CONTRAST STRENGTH TRAINING: IMPACTS ON AEROBIC AND ANAEROBIC ENDURANCE IN YOUTH SOCCER PLAYERS

Authors

  • Salih Oner Faculty of Sport Science, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye orcid.org/0009-0002-4520-1650
  • Mete Berk Demiryol Sport Management Department, Faculty of Sport Science, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye orcid.org/0000-0002-6149-3529
  • Mustafa Ozdal Coaching Education Department, Faculty of Sport Science, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye orcid.org/0000-0002-0286-2128

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v12i11.6397

Keywords:

aerobic and anaerobic endurance, soccer, strength training methods

Abstract

A well-established positive relationship exists between strength training and soccer performance, as well-designed resistance-based programs can enhance both aerobic and anaerobic capacities, which are essential for the sport. The present study aimed to examine the long-term effects of complex and contrast strength training on aerobic and anaerobic endurance performance in soccer players. The study sample consisted of 30 male athletes (mean height: 180.53 ± 6.339 cm; mean weight: 72.97 ± 7.421 kg; mean age: 18.10 ± 0.712 years) from the Gaziantep F.K. soccer team, competing in the TFF Development League during the 2024–2025 season. Utilizing an experimental design with pre-test and post-test control groups, the research employed quantitative methods to assess changes over time. Baseline aerobic and anaerobic endurance tests were conducted over the first two days, after which participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: complex training, contrast training, or a control group. In addition to regular team practices, the complex and contrast training groups completed 24 training sessions over eight weeks (three sessions per week), while the control group continued with standard weekly training only. Following the intervention period, post-tests for aerobic and anaerobic endurance were administered. Data analysis involved paired sample t-tests for within-group comparisons, one-way ANOVA for between-group differences, and LSD tests for multiple comparisons, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results indicated that both complex and contrast training significantly improved aerobic and anaerobic endurance compared to the control group (p < 0.05), with notable gains observed in the 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (IFT) and Vertical Jump Test. However, no significant differences were found between the complex and contrast training groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the eight-week intervention yielded significant improvements in both aerobic and anaerobic performance among soccer players, suggesting that incorporating complex and contrast strength training into conditioning programs can effectively enhance soccer-specific endurance capacities.

 

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Author Biographies

  • Salih Oner, Faculty of Sport Science, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye orcid.org/0009-0002-4520-1650

    Salih Oner is pursuing a master's degree in Physical Education and Sports at the Faculty of Sports Sciences, Gaziantep University. He works professionally as an Athletic Performance Coach at Gaziantep Football Club. He is also interested in areas such as strength training, speed and acceleration in football, and endurance training.

    ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-4520-1650

  • Mete Berk Demiryol, Sport Management Department, Faculty of Sport Science, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye orcid.org/0000-0002-6149-3529

    Mete Berk Demiryol graduated from Ankara University, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Department of Physical Education and Sports in 2021. He completed his master’s degree at İnönü University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Physical Education and Sports. He is also pursuing a doctorate in the Department of Physical Education and Sports at Gaziantep University since 2021. His areas of interest include Physical Education, Movement and Exercise Sciences, Exercise Physiology, Respiratory and Exercise, Isokinetic Strength and Rehabilitation, and Training and Psychosocial Studies.. He currently works as a Research Assistant at Gaziantep University, Faculty of Sports Sciences.

    ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6149-3529

    ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mete-Demiryol

  • Mustafa Ozdal, Coaching Education Department, Faculty of Sport Science, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye orcid.org/0000-0002-0286-2128

    Mustafa Ozdal graduated his master’s degree at Gaziantep University in 2012 and his doctorate degree at Samsun Ondokuzmayıs University in 2015, in the department of physical education and sports. He received the title of associate professor in the field of sports sciences in 2017 and professor in 2023. He currently Works at Gaziantep University, Faculty of Sports Sciences. He is also interested in areas such as pulmonary function, respiratory muscle and exercise, exercise physiology, and strength training.

    ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0286-2128

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Published

2025-11-22

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 11 (2025)

Section

Articles

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