Effects of playing surface on physiological, technical, and mood parameters in 5v5 small-sided soccer games in youth players
Keywords:
Playing surface, psychophysiological responses, small-sided games, technical performanceAbstract
Aim: This study aimed to compare the psychophysiological, kinematic, and technical responses of young soccer players during 5v5 small-sided games (SSGs) performed on artificial turf and natural grass surfaces. Method: Twenty male soccer players (age: 12.2 ± 0.41 years) participated in two experimental sessions conducted under standardized environmental conditions (29 °C, 40% humidity). Each player completed four 5-minute SSG bouts with 2-minute recovery intervals on both surface types, separated by 48 hours of rest. Total distance, mean heart rate (HRmean), peak heart rate (HRpeak), percentage of maximum heart rate (%HRmax), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and physical enjoyment scale (PES) as well as technical actions and mood responses (Brunel Mood Scale; BRUMS) were recorded. Paired-sample t-tests were applied, and significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: No significant differences were observed between surfaces in HRmean, HRpeak, %HRmax, RPE, PES, or total distance covered (p > 0.05). However, players performed significantly more successful passes, successful shots, interceptions, and ball losses on artificial turf than on natural grass (p < 0.05). Mood responses were largely independent of surface type, although minor effects were noted, including tension and vigour (p > 0.05). Conclusion: While the psychophysiological load of 5v5 SSGs was similar on both surfaces, technical performance was superior on artificial turf. These findings suggest that surface type has a greater impact on technical execution than on physiological or psychological responses during SSGs in young soccer players.
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