The effect of special exercises on different surfaces in developing some physical abilities of football players aged (14-15) years

Abstract

This study aimed to design special exercises on different training surfaces to develop selected physical abilities of football players aged 14–15 years and to identify their effects on the research sample. The researcher adopted an experimental method using pre- and post-tests. The research population consisted of 30 players from the National Center for Sports Talent Care in Baghdad, while the sample included 20 players (66.66%), randomly divided into two groups of 10 players each. Goalkeepers and some players were excluded due to injury or non-compliance with training.

After applying the training program and conducting statistical analyses, the results showed that special exercises performed on different surfaces (sand and natural grass) had a positive effect on improving players’ physical abilities. The variation in training surfaces contributed to enhancing key abilities such as agility, transitional speed, speed-strength, and speed endurance.

The study recommends adopting diversified training programs that include different surfaces to better prepare players physically and mentally. It also highlights the importance of sand training due to its effectiveness, low cost, and unique benefits. Furthermore, the researcher suggests conducting similar comparative studies across other sports and training environments.