SAQ Training Versus Small-Sided Games for Cardiovascular Adaptations in Youth Football Players

Football training methods may induce different physiological and cardiovascular adaptations in youth athletes. Speed, Agility, and Quickness (SAQ) training is widely used to enhance neuromuscular performance, while Small-Sided Games (SSGs) provide sport-specific training stimuli that combine technical, tactical, and physical demands. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to compare the effects of SAQ training and SSGs on cardiovascular responses in youth football players. Thirty-six male football players aged 14-16 years were randomly allocated to one of three groups: an SAQ training group, an SSG group, or a control group. The intervention lasted 8 weeks. Cardiovascular measurements included resting heart rate, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure. Assessments were conducted before and after the intervention period. The study investigated whether SAQ training and SSGs produce different cardiovascular adaptations and whether either intervention is superior to regular football training for improving cardiovascular health indicators in youth football players. This study was conducted in accordance with institutional ethical approval and informed consent procedures.