Effect of additional speed endurance training on performance and muscle adaptations

PURPOSE: The present study examined the effect of additional speed-endurance training during the season on muscle adaptations and performance of trained soccer players. METHODS: Eighteen sub-elite soccer players performed one session with 6-9 30-s intervals at an intensity of 90-95 % ofmaximal intensity (speed endurance training; SET) a week for 5 weeks (SET-intervention). Before and after the SET-intervention the players carried out the Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 2 (Yo- Yo IR2) test, a sprint test (10- and 30-m) and an agility test. In addition, seven of the players had a resting muscle biopsy taken and carried out a running protocol on a motorized treadmill before and after the SET-intervention RESULTS: After the SET-intervention the Yo-Yo IR2 test (n=13) performance was 11 % better (p