The Cardiovascular Fitness Effect of Zone 2 Training Among High School Soccer Athletes
Keywords:
Aerobic capacity, PACER, CoachingAbstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to observe the cardiovascular training effect of a 5-week Zone 2 training program among high school soccer players. Methods: Prior to the start of the competitive high school soccer season, the researchers used the Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) test to assess aerobic capacity. Participants (N – 12) met three days per week to participate in a Zone 2 training program that consisted of jogging/running at specific durations for five weeks. At the conclusion of the five-week training, the researchers again tested aerobic capacity using the PACER test. Results: The results indicated a statistically significant change in aerobic capacity among the participants. Conclusion: The researchers conclude that, as a method of preseason training among the population studied, Zone 2 exercise appears to provide a very cost effective, easy-to-employ method of training that significantly improves aerobic performance, carries minimal risk of injury, and delays the onset of physical and mental fatigue.
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