Research article - (2025)24, 104 - 115
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52082/jssm.2025.104
Combining HIIT with Small-Sided Soccer Games Enhances Cardiometabolic and Physical Fitness More Than Each Alone in Overweight Youth: A Randomized Controlled Study
Bo Zheng1, Qi Xu2,, Jie Zhang3
1School of Physical Education, Chengdu Normal University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
2Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, Gdańsk, Poland
3School of Football, Chengdu Sport University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Qi Xu
✉ Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, 80-336 Gdańsk, Poland
Email: qi.xu@awf.gda.pl
Received: 02-12-2024 -- Accepted: 30-12-2024
Published (online): 01-03-2025

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to compare the effects of a combined high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and small-sided games (SSG) training program (SSG + HIIT) with training programs consisting solely of either HIIT or SSG on the cardiometabolic and physical fitness of sedentary, overweight youth. A randomized, parallel-controlled study design was employed, with interventions lasting six weeks (twice a week, with each work time lasting 12-16 minutes). Fifty-seven sedentary, overweight male youth participants (15.1 ± 0.8 years) were assessed twice on anthropometric measures, blood pressure, endurance (using the Multi-Stage Fitness Test, MSFT), muscle power (countermovement jump and broad jump), and change of direction ability (using the 5-0-5 COD test). The session's ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) and scores on the Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale (PACES) were also monitored. The HIIT group exhibited a significantly smaller waist circumference compared to the control group (p = 0.041) after the intervention. The control group exhibited a significantly worst COD deficit compared to the SSG + HIIT (p = 0.002), SSG (p = 0.001) and HIIT (p = 0.048) after the intervention. In the case of MSFT, the group exhibited a significantly smaller distance covered than SSG + HIIT (p = 0.002), and SSG (p = 0.005). Moreover, significant differences on RPE (p < 0.001) and PACES (p < 0.001) was found between groups. The SSG + HIIT or SSG are effective for improving COD and aerobic capacity, while being more enjoyable and less intense than HIIT alone. However, HIIT is more effective in reducing waist circumference. The research limitations include the short intervention duration, lack of control for diet and external factors, and the need for longer-term research.

Key words: Football, physical exercise, physical fitness, health, overweight

Key Points
  • Combining HIIT with small-sided soccer games (SSG+HIIT) enhances aerobic capacity, change-of-direction ability, and exercise enjoyment more effectively than either HIIT or SSG alone in overweight youth.
  • The SSG+HIIT approach offers a balanced training method that is both effective and enjoyable, providing an innovative solution for improving fitness in sedentary youth populations.








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