Association Between Weekly Strength Training Load and Perceived Physical Performance in Non-Professional Soccer Players

Association Between Weekly Strength Training Load and Perceived Physical Performance in Non-Professional Soccer Players: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Background. Strength training is a key component of physical performance in soccer. However, in non-professional players, evidence regarding the relationship between weekly strength training load and perceived physical performance remains limited, particularly when considering factors such as fatigue, pain, and motivation.

Objective. To analyze the association between self-reported weekly strength training load and perceived physical performance in non-professional soccer players, and to examine the influence of perceived fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, and exercise motivation on this relationship.

Methods. An observational, analytical, cross-sectional study conducted using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire. The dependent variable will be perceived physical performance, assessed using the Perceived Performance in Sports Questionnaire. Independent variables will include weekly strength training load, measured using the session Rating of Perceived Exertion (sRPE), perceived fatigue assessed with the Fatigue Severity Scale, and motivation toward training and sport participation assessed with the Behavioral Regulation in Exercise Questionnaire-2. Adjustment variables will include age, sex, playing position, competitive level, sporting experience, mean match playing time (minutes per match), body mass index, and overall weekly training load. Descriptive analyses and multivariable regression models will be performed.

Expected results. To identify the relationship between weekly strength training load and perceived physical performance, and to determine the physical and psychosocial factors associated with lower self-perceived performance in non-professional soccer players.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age between 18 and 40 years.
• Competing in the 3ª RFEF category.
• Male sex.
• Having at least two years of seniority in federated football.
• Signing the informed consent document.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Athletes with injuries lasting more than 3 months during the last season.
• Participation in fewer than two weekly group training sessions (one or none).
• Having undergone lower-limb surgery in the last 24 months.
• Players who, despite being able to attend training sessions on a continuous basis, have a regular occupational activity that causes such a high physical workload that their sports performance is limited in training and/or competition.