Effects of strength training based on velocity versus traditional training on muscle mass, neuromuscular activation, and indicators of maximal power and strength in girls soccer players

Abstract This study examines the effects of two strength training (ST) programs, one based on mean propulsive velocity (MPV) and another under the traditional method, the % one-repetition maximum (1RM), on neuromuscular performance and muscle composition in girls who play soccer. Fifty players with an average age of 13.6 ± 1.2 years participated in the study and were randomly assigned into three groups: a maximal execution velocity training group (VG, n = 15), a maximal strength group (RMG, n = 13), and a control group (CG, n = 18). The study was developed for a period of twelve weeks during regular team training to prepare for the season. The VG and RMG groups performed additional strength or muscle power training three times a week, including movements of full squat and pedaling on a cycle ergometer. The two types of training groups and the control group exhibited significant gains. However, the greatest increases were achieved with VG training, with significant increases (p