Effects of the COVID-19 confinement period on physical conditions in young elite soccer players

BACKGROUND: The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 infection required general confinement measures reducing or even preventing sport practice, which was a risk of detraining in athletes. In adolescents, detraining is poorly known as well as its prevention by home-exercises. This article aimed to assess the effects of COVID-19 confinement on detraining in young high-level soccer players despite a multimodal training program conducted at home. METHODS: Twenty-five elite soccer players, aged 14, were included to perform physical exercises at home during the COVID-19 confinement. Two cardio-training sessions and two upper and lower limb muscle strengthening sessions were performed per week. The exercise program was monitored remotely via the web. Hooper, training and mental indexes allowed a psychological follow-up. The effect of COVID-19 confinement on aerobic capacity was measured using a pre- and posiconfinement Yo-Yo Test. RESULTS: Out of the 25 adolcscences who completed the exercises program. 19 performed the postconfinement Yo-Yo Test. The running distance decreased by 614+/-630 in (-25%) (P=0001) and the maximal running speed by 0.97+/-1 km/h (-5%) (P=0.001), confirming detraining. Hooper. training and mental indexes remained stable showing a well-supported home COVID-19 confinement. CONCLUSIONS: The 2-month period of strict home confinement due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic was responsible for a decrease of aerobic abilities in adolescent soccer players, despite a remotely monitored multimodal exercises program.