ABSTRACT
Significant knowledge exists about the effect of aerobic and anaerobic training on muscular adaptation and performance (Reilly and Bangsbo, 1998). A number of studies have focused on aerobic high-intensity interval training of soccer players. For example, McMillan et al. (2005) examined the impact of 10 weeks of interval training on the performance of Scottish youth soccer players. The training consisted of 4 × 4 min dribbling separated be a 3 min active recovery period twice a week. Maximal oxygen uptake (V
. o2 max) increased by 9 per cent. However, these
players were at a moderate level and the training was performed in the pre-season. In addition, Chamari et al. (2005) examined the impact of eight weeks of interval training twice a week on 14-year-old soccer players in the competitive season. One of the training sessions consisted of small-sided games and the other session consisted of 4 min work 4 times at a heart rate above 90 per cent of HRmax separated by 3 min active recovery. The V
. o2 max increased by 12 per cent. Impellizzeri et al.
