2005 | Tomas Stølen,1 Karim Chamari,2 Carlo Castagna3 and Ulrik Wisloff4,5
This article provides an updated overview of the physiological demands and training requirements for soccer players and referees. It highlights that soccer, the most popular sport globally, requires a well-rounded set of skills, including technical, tactical, mental, and physiological abilities. Elite players run about 10 kilometers during a 90-minute game, maintaining an intensity close to the anaerobic threshold. The article discusses the importance of aerobic capacity, strength, and anaerobic power, and provides examples of effective training programs to enhance these areas. It also addresses the physiological aspects of refereeing and evaluates various endurance tests used to assess physical performance. The authors emphasize the need for systematic training and selection processes to improve the performance of players at all levels, particularly those in lower divisions. The article is based on a comprehensive review of 843 selected studies from a total of 9893 papers, aiming to provide practical insights for coaches and players to enhance safety and success in soccer.This article provides an updated overview of the physiological demands and training requirements for soccer players and referees. It highlights that soccer, the most popular sport globally, requires a well-rounded set of skills, including technical, tactical, mental, and physiological abilities. Elite players run about 10 kilometers during a 90-minute game, maintaining an intensity close to the anaerobic threshold. The article discusses the importance of aerobic capacity, strength, and anaerobic power, and provides examples of effective training programs to enhance these areas. It also addresses the physiological aspects of refereeing and evaluates various endurance tests used to assess physical performance. The authors emphasize the need for systematic training and selection processes to improve the performance of players at all levels, particularly those in lower divisions. The article is based on a comprehensive review of 843 selected studies from a total of 9893 papers, aiming to provide practical insights for coaches and players to enhance safety and success in soccer.