Exercise PerformanceSIRvsSSG2023NCT07132294
Effects of Small-Sided Games Versus Sprint Interval Running on Aerobic Capacity and Training Load in Elite Football
A study testing Exercise Intervention in people with Exercise Performance and Aerobic Capacity, run by Ondokuz Mayıs University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
Trial summary
Purpose of the Study: This study aimed to compare the physiological and performance-related effects of two different training methods in elite football players: supramaximal interval running (SIR) and small-sided games (SSG). Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 30 years, men onlyHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Exercise Performance, Aerobic Capacity
- What is being tested?
- Exercise Intervention
- Type of treatment
- Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 40 participants
- Where
- 1 siteTurkey (Türkiye)
- Study dates
- 1 Jan 2025to 1 Jun 2025
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 30 years
- Men only
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Professional male football players who are actively playing in the Super League and the 1st League of Turkey.
- Between the ages of 18 and 30. Agree to participate in at least 85% of the scheduled training sessions.
Who cannot join
- Goalkeepers (to ensure positional uniformity). Presence of musculoskeletal injuries or medical conditions that could affect performance.
- Use of any medication or supplements that could influence physiological responses.
- Suffering an injury or illness during the study and failing to attend at least 85% of the training sessions.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
Turkey (Türkiye)1 site
Ondokuz Mayis University
Atakent, Samsun, 55200
About this study
Official title: Comparative Effects of Supramaximal Interval Running and Small-Sided Games on Physiological and Performance Responses in Elite Football Players
Purpose of the Study:
This study aimed to compare the physiological and performance-related effects of two different training methods in elite football players: supramaximal interval running (SIR) and small-sided games (SSG).
Read more
Who Can Participate:
Forty professional male football players (excluding goalkeepers) from the top two leagues in Turkey participated in this study. Participants were required to have no injuries or health problems that could affect their performance.
How the Study Will Work:
The study was conducted over a six-week preseason preparation period for the 2023-2024 season. Participants were randomly assigned to either the supramaximal interval running (SIR) group or the small-sided games (SSG) group. Both groups trained three times a week. Before and after the intervention, measurements such as maximal aerobic speed (MAS), total running distance, blood lactate levels, body composition (fat mass), and heart rate were taken.
Potential Benefits and Risks:
Both training approaches resulted in significant improvements in body weight, fat mass, running distance, and aerobic capacity. The information gained from this study could help determine the most effective training methods for elite football players. Since the study is similar to a standard training program, no serious risks are expected.
Results:
This study found that both supramaximal interval running (SIR) and small-sided games (SSG) training methods improved the physiological and performance outcomes of elite football players. However, the SIR protocol was found to be associated with more pronounced gains in aerobic capacity, anaerobic markers, and body composition. These findings emphasize the benefit of SIR during a short preseason preparation period. The results of the study can help in developing training programs tailored to individual needs and performance goals.
Read the detailed description
Purpose of the Study:
The purpose of this study was to compare the physiological and performance-related effects of two different training methods in elite football players: supramaximal interval running (SIR) and small-sided games (SSG). The study specifically examined the concurrent effects of SIR and SSG within a structured off-season program.
Study Design:
This study employed a controlled, experimental pre-post-test design to compare the effects of SIR and SSG on physiological and performance outcomes in professional football players. Forty professional male outfield players from Türkiye's top two football leagues were randomly assigned to either the SIR or SSG groups. A six-week intervention was implemented during the preseason, with assessments conducted at baseline and post-intervention under standardized conditions.
Participants:
The study included 40 professional male football players from the Super League and the Trendyol 1st League in Turkey. Goalkeepers were excluded to ensure positional uniformity. Inclusion criteria were participation in at least 85% of scheduled training sessions, absence of musculoskeletal injuries or medical conditions affecting performance, and no use of medication or supplements influencing physiological responses.
Interventions:
SIR and SSG training were conducted three times per week over a six-week preseason period.
Supramaximal Interval Running (SIR):
SIR sessions were individualized based on each athlete's Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS). The intensity was prescribed at 100% to 110% of each player's MAS, with each session consisting of eight sets. In the first three weeks, each set involved a 2-minute maximal effort run followed by 2 minutes of passive recovery. In the final three weeks, both intensity and duration were progressively increased, with each set extended to 3 minutes of maximal effort and 3 minutes of rest.
Small-Sided Games (SSG):
SSG sessions were implemented to develop agility, acceleration, tactical decision-making, and match-relevant conditioning. Over the six-week intervention, game formats progressed from 4v4 to 7v7, with gradual increases in duration and pitch dimensions to ensure a consistent training load. Each session consisted of four sets per game format, separated by 5-minute passive rest periods.
Measurements:
Assessments before and after the intervention included:
Body Composition: Body mass and fat mass were assessed using the InBody270 bioelectrical impedance analyzer.
Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS): MAS was evaluated using a standardized 1,200-meter time trial.
Physiological and Performance Monitoring: Heart rate (HR) was continuously monitored using Polar H10 sensors. Internal training load was assessed using the Borg CR-10 scale for perceived exertion (RPE). Capillary blood samples were obtained post-session to measure blood lactate (LA) concentrations. Performance metrics were recorded with 50 Hz GPS devices and synchronized heart rate monitors.
- Conditions
- Exercise Performance, Aerobic Capacity
- Being tested
- Exercise Intervention
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Exercise InterventionBehavioural
Also called Structured Exercise Training
Supramaximal Interval Running (SIR) This protocol was individualized based on each player's Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS). Training intensities were prescribed at 100% to 110% of each player's MAS. Each session consisted of eight sets. During the first three weeks, each set involved a 2-minute maximal effort run followed by 2 minutes of passive recovery. In the final three weeks, the duration of each set was extended to a 3-minute maximal run with 3 minutes of passive rest, increasing intensity and volume. SIR sessions were designed to enhance anaerobic capacity and lactate tolerance.
Small-Sided Games (SSG) SSG sessions were implemented to develop agility, acceleration, tactical decision-making, and match-relevant conditioning. Training took place on regulation-size grass pitches, adjusted to maintain a consistent length-to-width ratio across all formats. Over the six-week intervention, game formats progressed from 4v4 to 7v7, with gradual increases in duration and pitch dimensions.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Supramaximal Interval Running (SIR | Experimental | Participants in this group performed supramaximal running intervals at 100-110% of their Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS), three times per week for six weeks. The protocol consisted of 8 sets of maximal effort runs with passive recovery between bouts. Training progressed from 2-minute to 3-minute intervals during the study. Receives: Behavioral: Exercise Intervention |
| Supramaximal Interval Running | Experimental | A high-intensity interval running protocol designed to improve aerobic and anaerobic capacity in professional football players. Training intensities were based on each participant's MAS and progressed in duration and intensity throughout the 6-week preseason phase. Receives: Behavioral: Exercise Intervention |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS)
Description: Measured using a 1,200-meter time trial on a natural grass pitch. Unit of Measure: meters/second (m/s)
Measured: Baseline and after 6 weeks
Total Running Distance
Measured using 50 Hz GPS devices.
Measured: Throughout the 6-week intervention
Secondary outcomes (4)
Blood Lactate Concentration (LA)
Description: Measured from fingertip capillary blood samples using Lactate Pro 2 analyzer.
Unit of Measure: millimoles per liter (mmol/L)
Measured: Immediately post-training sessions during the intervention
Fat Mass
Measured using the InBody270 bioelectrical impedance analyzer. Unit of Measure: kilograms (kg)
Measured: Time Frame: Baseline and after 6 weeks
Heart Rate (HR)
Measured continuously using Polar H10 heart rate sensors. Unit of Measure: beats per minute (bpm)
Measured: During training sessions across the 6-week period
Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE)
Measured using the Borg CR-10 scale.
Unit of Measure: CR-10 score (0-10 scale)
Measured: Immediately post-training sessions during the intervention
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted20 Aug 2025
- Study start1 Jan 2025
- Primary completion1 May 2025
- Study completion1 Jun 2025
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (1)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Exercise PerformanceStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Ondokuz Mayıs UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Single group
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Ondokuz Mayıs University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Hamza Kucuk, Ondokuz Mayıs University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07132294
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- HKucuk-FootballTrial23
- Other IDs
- 76fb8a54f90e4d6c
- Acronym
- SIRvsSSG2023
- Status last verified
- Aug 2025
- First submitted
- 4 Aug 2025
- Last updated
- 19 May 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: Upon publication of the primary manuscript, the individual participant data (IPD) will be made available upon request to qualified researchers who meet the legal and ethical requirements governing data sharing. Access to the data will be provided by contacting the principal investigator of the study. This data sharing plan will be in effect for 5 years following the publication date
Publications
Tucker WJ, Angadi SS, Gaesser GA. Excess Postexercise Oxygen Consumption After High-Intensity and Sprint Interval Exercise, and Continuous Steady-State Exercise. J Strength Cond Res. 2016 Nov;30(11):3090-3097. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000001399.
PubMed 26950358
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 19 May 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparative Effects of Supramaximal Interval Running and Small-Sided Games on Physiological and Performance Responses in Elite Football Players
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07132294
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- SIRvsSSG2023 / HKucuk-FootballTrial23
- Conditions
- Exercise Performance, Aerobic Capacity
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Ondokuz Mayıs UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Jan 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 1 May 2025 (actual)
- Study completion
- 1 Jun 2025 (actual)
- First posted
- 20 Aug 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Purpose of the Study:
This study aimed to compare the physiological and performance-related effects of two different training methods in elite football players: supramaximal interval running (SIR) and small-sided games (SSG).
Who Can Participate:
Forty professional male football players (excluding goalkeepers) from the top two leagues in Turkey participated in this study. Participants were required to have no injuries or health problems that could affect their performance.
How the Study Will Work:
The study was conducted over a six-week preseason preparation period for the 2023-2024 season. Participants were randomly assigned to either the supramaximal interval running (SIR) group or the small-sided games (SSG) group. Both groups trained three times a week. Before and after the intervention, measurements such as maximal aerobic speed (MAS), total running distance, blood lactate levels, body composition (fat mass), and heart rate were taken.
Potential Benefits and Risks:
Both training approaches resulted in significant improvements in body weight, fat mass, running distance, and aerobic capacity. The information gained from this study could help determine the most effective training methods for elite football players. Since the study is similar to a standard training program, no serious risks are expected.
Results:
This study found that both supramaximal interval running (SIR) and small-sided games (SSG) training methods improved the physiological and performance outcomes of elite football players. However, the SIR protocol was found to be associated with more pronounced gains in aerobic capacity, anaerobic markers, and body composition. These findings emphasize the benefit of SIR during a short preseason preparation period. The results of the study can help in developing training programs tailored to individual needs and performance goals.
Detailed description
Purpose of the Study:
The purpose of this study was to compare the physiological and performance-related effects of two different training methods in elite football players: supramaximal interval running (SIR) and small-sided games (SSG). The study specifically examined the concurrent effects of SIR and SSG within a structured off-season program.
Study Design:
This study employed a controlled, experimental pre-post-test design to compare the effects of SIR and SSG on physiological and performance outcomes in professional football players. Forty professional male outfield players from Türkiye's top two football leagues were randomly assigned to either the SIR or SSG groups. A six-week intervention was implemented during the preseason, with assessments conducted at baseline and post-intervention under standardized conditions.
Participants:
The study included 40 professional male football players from the Super League and the Trendyol 1st League in Turkey. Goalkeepers were excluded to ensure positional uniformity. Inclusion criteria were participation in at least 85% of scheduled training sessions, absence of musculoskeletal injuries or medical conditions affecting performance, and no use of medication or supplements influencing physiological responses.
Interventions:
SIR and SSG training were conducted three times per week over a six-week preseason period.
Supramaximal Interval Running (SIR):
SIR sessions were individualized based on each athlete's Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS). The intensity was prescribed at 100% to 110% of each player's MAS, with each session consisting of eight sets. In the first three weeks, each set involved a 2-minute maximal effort run followed by 2 minutes of passive recovery. In the final three weeks, both intensity and duration were progressively increased, with each set extended to 3 minutes of maximal effort and 3 minutes of rest.
Small-Sided Games (SSG):
SSG sessions were implemented to develop agility, acceleration, tactical decision-making, and match-relevant conditioning. Over the six-week intervention, game formats progressed from 4v4 to 7v7, with gradual increases in duration and pitch dimensions to ensure a consistent training load. Each session consisted of four sets per game format, separated by 5-minute passive rest periods.
Measurements:
Assessments before and after the intervention included:
Body Composition: Body mass and fat mass were assessed using the InBody270 bioelectrical impedance analyzer.
Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS): MAS was evaluated using a standardized 1,200-meter time trial.
Physiological and Performance Monitoring: Heart rate (HR) was continuously monitored using Polar H10 sensors. Internal training load was assessed using the Borg CR-10 scale for perceived exertion (RPE). Capillary blood samples were obtained post-session to measure blood lactate (LA) concentrations. Performance metrics were recorded with 50 Hz GPS devices and synchronized heart rate monitors.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Single group
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Supramaximal Interval Running (SIR | Experimental | Behavioral: Exercise InterventionParticipants in this group performed supramaximal running intervals at 100-110% of their Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS), three times per week for six weeks. The protocol consisted of 8 sets of maximal effort runs with passive recovery between bouts. Training progressed from 2-minute to 3-minute intervals during the study. |
| Supramaximal Interval Running | Experimental | Behavioral: Exercise InterventionA high-intensity interval running protocol designed to improve aerobic and anaerobic capacity in professional football players. Training intensities were based on each participant's MAS and progressed in duration and intensity throughout the 6-week preseason phase. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 30 years
- Sex
- Male only
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (2 listed)
- Professional male football players who are actively playing in the Super League and the 1st League of Turkey.
- Between the ages of 18 and 30. Agree to participate in at least 85% of the scheduled training sessions.
Key exclusion criteria (3 listed)
- Goalkeepers (to ensure positional uniformity). Presence of musculoskeletal injuries or medical conditions that could affect performance.
- Use of any medication or supplements that could influence physiological responses.
- Suffering an injury or illness during the study and failing to attend at least 85% of the training sessions.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise InterventionAlso: Structured Exercise TrainingSupramaximal Interval Running (SIR) This protocol was individualized based on each player's Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS). Training intensities were prescribed at 100% to 110% of each player's MAS. Each session consisted of eight sets. During the first three weeks, each set involved a 2-minute maximal effort run followed by 2 minutes of passive recovery. In the final three weeks, the duration of each set was extended to a 3-minute maximal run with 3 minutes of passive rest, increasing intensity and volume. SIR sessions were designed to enhance anaerobic capacity and lactate tolerance. Small-Sided Games (SSG) SSG sessions were implemented to develop agility, acceleration, tactical decision-making, and match-relevant conditioning. Training took place on regulation-size grass pitches, adjusted to maintain a consistent length-to-width ratio across all formats. Over the six-week intervention, game formats progressed from 4v4 to 7v7, with gradual increases in duration and pitch dimensions. | Behavioural | Supramaximal Interval Running, Supramaximal Interval Running (SIR |
Primary outcome
Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS)
Time frame: Baseline and after 6 weeks
Description: Measured using a 1,200-meter time trial on a natural grass pitch. Unit of Measure: meters/second (m/s)
Total Running Distance
Time frame: Throughout the 6-week intervention
Measured using 50 Hz GPS devices.
4 secondary outcomes
Blood Lactate Concentration (LA)
Time frame: Immediately post-training sessions during the intervention
Fat Mass
Time frame: Time Frame: Baseline and after 6 weeks
Heart Rate (HR)
Time frame: During training sessions across the 6-week period
Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE)
Time frame: Immediately post-training sessions during the intervention
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 19 May 2026.
- Results publication: PubMed 26950358Tucker WJ, Angadi SS, Gaesser GA. Excess Postexercise Oxygen Consumption After High-Intensity and Sprint Interval Exercise, and Continuous Steady-State Exercise. J Strength Cond Res. 2016 Nov;30(11):3090-3097. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000001399.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. Upon publication of the primary manuscript, the individual participant data (IPD) will be made available upon request to qualified researchers who meet the legal and ethical requirements governing data sharing. Access to the data will be provided by contacting the principal investigator of the study. This data sharing plan will be in effect for 5 years following the publication date
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Exercise Intervention in people with Exercise Performance and Aerobic Capacity, run by Ondokuz Mayıs University at 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye).
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 2 inclusion and 3 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 19 May 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Turkey (Türkiye). Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS) (time frame: Baseline and after 6 weeks). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT07132294, which also lists 1 linked publication.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 19 May 2026.