The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of complex training (CT) on sprint, jump, and change of direction (COD) ability among soccer players. After an electronic search, 10 peer-reviewed articles were considered in the meta-analysis. The athletes included in this meta-analysis were amateur to professional level male soccer players (age range, 14-23 years). These studies incorporated CT in soccer players who were compared to a control group. Significant moderate to large improvements were observed in the CT group [sprint: standard mean difference (SMD) = 0.92-1.91; jump: SMD = 0.96-1.58; COD: SMD = 0.97-1.49] when compared to control groups. Subgroup analysis were also conducted based on age, duration, and competitive level. The beneficial effects of CT were greater in players <18 vs. ≥18 years (linear sprinting; SMD = 2.01 vs. -0.13), after ≥8 vs. <8 weeks (jumping and COD; SMD = 1.55-2.01 vs. 0.31-0.64, respectively) and among professional vs. amateur players (linear sprinting and with COD; SMD = 1.53-1.58 vs. 0.08-0.63, respectively). In conclusion, regular soccer training programs may be supplemented with CT to improve sprint, jump, and COD performance. A longer duration of CT (≥8 weeks) seems to be optimal in improving the physical abilities of soccer players. Professional players and <18 years players may benefit more from CT program.
Keywords: football; physical education and training; plyometric exercise; post-activation performance enhancement; resistance training; sports.
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