Effect of two different training programs with the same workload on soccer overhead throwing velocity.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine whether two throwing programs, based upon velocity or resistance with the same workload, would enhance soccer overhead throwing velocity.

METHODS

Sports science students (n = 64, age 21.1 +/- 2.1 y, mass 71.1 +/- 11 kg, height 1.75 +/- 0.09 m; mean +/- SD) divided into two groups matched on performance, participated in the study. The resistance-training group trained overhead throwing with a 5-kg medicine ball for two sets of 8 reps per session, whereas a velocity training group threw four sets of 16 reps with a regular soccer ball. These training programs were matched on workload. Throwing performance with a soccer ball and a 5-kg medicine ball were tested before and after a training period of 6 wk with two sessions per week.

RESULTS

Both groups significantly increased the throwing velocity with the soccer ball (resistance-training group: 3.2% [1.0-5.5%]; P = .003 and velocity-training group: 5.1% [2.6-7.7%]; P < .001), whereas no substantial changes were found for throwing with the 5-kg medicine ball after the training period. No substantial differences between the groups were found, which indicates that both forms of training increased the throwing velocity.

CONCLUSIONS

It is concluded that both velocity and resistance throwing training programs after a short period of training with the same workload can increase throwing velocity and that workload is of importance in designing training programs and comparing them with each other.