Resistance priming strategies in professional Spanish soccer: A survey study into the practices and perceptions of strength and conditioning coaches

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Abstract

This cross-sectional survey study investigated the practices and perceptions of strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches working in professional Spanish soccer concerning resistance priming strategies. Twenty-four S&C coaches (age: 30.6 ± 5.3 years; professional experience: 7.7 ± 3.5 years) participated in this study. The survey comprised four sections: 1) coaches’ information; 2) perceptions about resistance priming; 3) programming variables; and 4) opinions. Results showed that S&C coaches predominantly used resistance priming strategies 24 h (79%) or 24–48 h (21%) before a match. The most frequently used exercises during resistance priming sessions were isometric exercises (25%), followed by traditional strength exercises heavy load (85% 1RM) (22%), traditional strength moderate load (60–85% 1RM) (17%), ballistic exercises (17%), traditional strength light load (< 60 % 1RM) (11%), sprint (4%), and weightlifting (4%). This paper analyses survey responses from S&C coaches in soccer, comparing their reported practices and perceptions with the findings of existing empirical research. This allows us to examine whether their methods are consistent with research-based approaches, or if they deviate towards alternative methods. This information can help professionals design more effective training programmes.