Effects of a Back Squat Training Program (16.5-17.5 year old males)

A recent study was published in the J of Strength & Conditioning Research (NSCA 11/09) that looked at the effect of the back squat exercise among 22 junior lever soccer players. The study tested the effect of the squat on leg power,jump and sprint performances.

Over an eight week period the 11 players participated in two-a-week lifting sessions (11 tested but did not train using the squat). All of the athletes had trained for soccer at least four years and were injury free for the last two years. None of the athletes had any strength training experience.

The practical application indicates that the back squat exercise will improve jump and sprint performance in junior level soccer players. The study does recommend that with this age group the half squat be utilized.

For more information on this study go to www.nsca-lift.org