High-speed running and sprinting training play an important role in the development
of physical capabilities, sport-specific performance and injury prevention among soccer
players. This commentary aims to summarize the current evidence regarding high-speed
running and sprinting training in professional soccer and to inform its implementation
in research and applied settings. It is structured into four sections: 1) Evidence-based
high-speed running and sprinting conditioning methodologies; 2) Monitoring of high-speed
running and sprinting performance in soccer 3) Recommendations for effective implementation
of high-speed running and sprinting training in applied soccer settings; 4) Limitations
and future directions. The contemporary literature provides preliminary methodological
guidelines for coaches and practitioners. The recommended methods to ensure high-speed
running and sprinting exposure for both conditioning purposes and injury prevention
strategies among soccer players are: high-intensity running training, field-based
drills and ball-drills in the form of medium- and large-sided games. Global navigation
satellite systems are valid and reliable technologies for high-speed running and sprinting
monitoring practice. Future research is required to refine, and advance training practices
aimed at optimizing individual high-speed running and sprinting training responses
and associated long-term effects.
Key words
GPS - football - performance - team sports
