1
Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, Ankara, Türkiye
2
Kahramanmaraş İstiklal University, Rectorate, Kahramanmaraş, Türkiye
3
Gazi University, Faculty of Sports Sciences, Ankara, Türkiye
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the effects of high-intensity interval training and small-sided games, applied in addition to regular football training, on the technical and motor performance of young male football players aged 11–13 years. Thirty young male football players with similar baseline anthropometric and performance characteristics were randomly assigned to HIIT, SSG, or control groups. For the technical and motor tests, normality of inter-group distributions before the 6-week intervention was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, intra-group differences post-intervention with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and inter-group differences with the Mann-Whitney U test. Results indicated improvements in technical and motor performance across all groups. The HIIT group exhibited more pronounced enhancements, particularly in endurance parameters such as the Yo-Yo İntermittent Recovery Test and estimated maximal oxygen uptake. Conversely, the SSG group demonstrated superiority in short-distance sprint speed, agility, and technical skill development. Significant increases in flexibility were observed in the control and SSG groups, whereas no inter-group differences were found in reaction time. At the conclusion of the 6-week intervention, the HIIT and SSG groups showed improvements in more parameters compared to the control group. Improvements in the control group were attributed to regular football training. In conclusion, integrating HIIT and SSG into football training provides an optimal strategy for comprehensive performance development in young football players.
Keywords
Ergenlik,HIIT,motor performans,dar alanlı oyun antrenmanı,teknik performans,genç futbol oyuncusu
How to Cite
Sarisoy, F., Jira, H., & Savas, S. (2026). Comparison of the effects of small-sided games and high intensity interval training on motor performance and technical skills in young footballers. Journal of ROL Sport Sciences, 7, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.70736/jrolss.2116
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Harun Jira
2
