Effects of High-Intensity Anaerobic Training on Speed Performance With and Without the Ball in Youth Futsal Players

Abstract

Introduction: In futsal, strength, speed, and agility are essential for success due to the need for swift direction changes and rapid movements. Proficient dribbling is also crucial for maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities. By incorporating strength training, plyometrics, agility drills, and dribbling exercises, athletes can improve their overall performance. This comprehensive training approach ensures athletes develop the skills and physical abilities necessary for the demands of futsal matches. Methods: The sample consisted of 31 male youth futsal athletes, selected using systematic random sampling based on the known population size to estimate the average. The experimental intervention involved high-intensity anaerobic training sessions conducted three times a week over eight weeks, resulting in an index of item objective congruence of 1.00. To assess speed performance, the instruments used to collect data were the 20-meter and 40-meter speed tests, both with and without the ball. Descriptive statistics included percentages, means, and standard deviations. In contrast, inferential statistics entailed a one-way analysis of variance with repeated measures if the data was normally distributed and the Friedman test if the data was abnormally distributed, both at the 0.05 level. Results: The results showed that a Friedman test found significant differences between before and after week 4, before and after week 8, and between week four and week 8 of training in the 20-meter speed test, the 20-meter speed with the ball test, the 40-meter speed test, and the 40-meter speed with the ball test. Conclusion: High-intensity anaerobic training helps futsal players improve quick sprints, rapid direction changes, and explosive movements with and without the ball. This training enhances overall speed, enabling players to react swiftly and outmaneuver opponents effectively.