Effect of two methods of training, Small Sided Game (SSG) and resistance-plyometric, on plasma level of Interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in youth soccer players

Introduction: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of two concurrent resistance-plyometric and small sided game methods on pro-inflammatory in youth soccer players. Methods: 30 youth soccer players with a range of 14 to 17 years of age were divided randomly in three groups, SSG (n=8), resistance-plyometric (n=11) and control (n=11). Height, weight, BMI and VO2max of the subjects were measured. The next day, blood samples from the anterior brachial vein of subjects were taken. The experimental groups participated in their exercise program (8 week, 2 sessions per week plus three current sessions). All variables were measured again after 8 weeks. In order to compare data within groups' Dependent t-test was used and for comparison between groups Independent t-test was used by SPSS 17. Results: The findings showed that after 8 weeks of SSG training plasma level of IL-6 and TNF-α increased significantly. The results in other groups did not show significant change (P≥0.05). Conclusion: SSG training can induce a catabolic environment in youth soccer players' body.