Research article - (2025)24, 634 - 644
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52082/jssm.2025.634
Can Maturation Level Influence Long-Term Physiological and Physical Adaptations in Youth Female Soccer Players Exposed to Combined Sided Games and HIIT? A Comparison Across Maturation Statuses
Ying Zhou1, Jing Liu2,, Liuxi Yang3, Bosong Zheng4
1Physical Education of Sichuan Normal University, 610101, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
2Guizhou University of Engineering Science, 551700, Bijie,Guizhou, China
3Civil Aviation Security College, Civil Aviation Flight University of China, 618300, Guanghan, China
4College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China

Jing Liu
✉ Guizhou University of Engineering Science, 551700, Bijie, Guizhou, China
Email: lingjianfengyun@163.com
Received: 13-06-2024 -- Accepted: 16-07-2025
Published (online): 01-09-2025
Narrated in English

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a 6-week high-intensity interval training combined with small-sided games (HIIT&SSG) program on maximal strength, sprint performance, and aerobic capacity in female athletes and to examine how these effects vary across different stages of maturity (pre-, mid-, and post-peak height velocity [PHV]). Specifically, we sought to determine whether the improvements in performance outcomes were consistent across maturity groups or if the training effects differed based on the athletes' maturity status. Fifty-four female soccer players (aged 9-16 years) were categorized into pre-PHV, mid-PHV, and post-PHV maturity groups. Participants were randomly assigned to either an HIIT&SSG group (n = 27) or a control group (n = 27). The HIIT&SSG group performed two additional training sessions per week, focusing on 2v2 small-sided games and individualized high-intensity runs at 85% of their final velocity during the 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (VIFT). Control continued their regular training routines. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) for maximal strength, 30-meter sprint time, and VIFT for aerobic capacity. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) for maximal strength, 30-meter sprint time, and VIFT for aerobic capacity. The HIIT&SSG group demonstrated large effect sizes for IMTP (ηp2 = 0.996), 30-m sprint time (ηp2 = 0.991), and VIFT (ηp2 = 0.878), with substantial improvements in strength and aerobic capacity in mid- and post-PHV athletes. For IMTP, significant group differences were observed in mid-PHV (p = 0.021) and post-PHV athletes (p < 0.001). Post-PHV athletes also showed significantly faster 30-meter sprint times post-intervention (p < 0.001). VIFT improvements were significant across all maturity stages (Pre-PHV: p = 0.045; Mid-PHV: p < 0.001; Post-PHV: p < 0.001). Effect sizes for group differences ranged from moderate to large (ηp2 = 0.540 to ηp2 = 0.928). HIIT&SSG program is effective in enhancing maximal strength, sprint performance, and aerobic capacity, with particularly benefits for mid- and post-PHV athletes. However, the improvements in sprint performance were primarily observed in post-PHV athletes, which may limit the generalizability of these effects to all maturity stages.

Key words: Interval training, girl, football, maturation, peak height velocity

Key Points
  • HIIT&SSG significantly improved maximal strength in mid- and post-PHV athletes.
  • Aerobic capacity (VIFT) improved across all maturity groups in the HIIT&SSG group.
  • Sprint performance improved significantly only in post-PHV athletes after HIIT&SSG.








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