Aerobic and anaerobic training

In this chapter, the authors discuss the demands of soccer match play, how these demands stress the two main energy systems; the aerobic and anaerobic energy systems and give some practical information relating to different training methods for energy system development within soccer. In addition to the locomotive demands, there are instances when players are required to transition from low intensity to high-intensity activities and vice versa. The aerobic energy system is significantly taxed within soccer match play. Low-moderate intensity aerobic training can form an important component of programs to help form part of the recovery process and maintain aerobic fitness. High-intensity aerobic training can improve the aerobic contribution to high-intensity activities and improve the ability to recover from such actions within game. Anaerobic training can be split into speed and speed endurance training. Speed training specifically aims to improve the ability to produce a rapid force that improves acceleration and maintains a high force to obtain high peak velocities.