USING SMALL-SIDED GAMES (SSG) FOR DEVELOPING BOTH

AEROBIC AND ANAEROBIC ENDURANCE

Small-sided games (SSG) involve smaller teams (3 vs. 3, for example) that incorporate all components of
soccer and present an excellent alternative to traditional fitness sessions. Because SSG involve both
technical and tactical components in addition to the high physical demands, they are one of the most
efficient forms of training.

Benefits of Small-Sided Games

There are many benefits to using small-sided games in your training program. Most importantly, SSG
facilitates youth development as having fewer players on the field simplifies the tactical environment,
making the game visually clearer for players. Players also get many touches on the ball, which greatly
facilitates technical development. The competitive nature of SSG means players are likely to be playing at
a high intensity and therefore circumvents the motivational problems coaches may experience with more
routine drills. Lastly SSG incorporates all aspects of the game including combination play, individual and
group defending, and the various elements of technique (passing, receiving, dribbling, etc.).

Scientific Basis for Using SSG

Several scientific studies have quantified the physiological responses as well as the physical and technical
activities during SSG and have shown that SSG elicit similar hear rate values observed during normal 11
v 11 soccer. In fact, when compared to standard match play, SSG training using a 4 v 4 format led to: i)
higher values of total distance covered per minute of play; ii) high-intensity running; and iii) 1 v 1 battles.

Studies have also shown that SSG-oriented training can be just as effective as traditional fitness training
for improving certain parameters of conditioning. For example, SSG and high-intensity interval training
methods were shown to be equally effective in increasing aerobic capacity and the ability to perform
intermittent exercises in amateur soccer players. Importantly, SSG-oriented training has been shown to be
an effective means of conditioning for young soccer players. These studies provide evidence supporting
the idea of using SSG as a major method of endurance fitness preparation, in addition to their use in
technical and tactical training.

Tailoring SSG for Aerobic or Anaerobic Conditioning

By tailoring or adding a specific restriction to your small-sided activity, you can emphasize either aerobic
or anaerobic conditioning. The easiest way to do this is by manipulating the number of players per team
or the size of the pitch. This in turn alters the playing intensity. If your aim is to develop anaerobic
endurance, then it is best to play 1 v 1, 2 v 2 or 3 v 3 SSG. It is also important that the coach or a player
on the side has an ample supply of balls and that a new ball is played in as soon as one goes out of play.