FOREIGN EXPERIENCE IN THE USE OF METHODS OF PHYSICAL TRAINING OF YOUNG FOOTBALL PLAYERS IN THE PRE-COMPETITION PERIOD

Abstract

Physical training is one of the key components of the football training process, as it ensures the development of essential physical qualities required for successful participation in competitions. Endurance, strength, speed, coordination, and flexibility form the foundation of effective football performance, and their development must align with the age, physiological, and psychological characteristics of young athletes. Proper training planning is particularly important, as it must consider not only the players' physical capabilities but also their level of motivation, psycho-emotional state, and individual characteristics.Young football players go through various stages of physical, mental, and social development, making it impossible to apply the same training programs across all age categories. A lack of adaptation of training loads to the physiological capabilities of children and adolescents can lead to overtraining, injuries, or premature exhaustion, negatively affecting their athletic progress and overall motivation. Therefore, a crucial aspect is the development and implementation of scientifically grounded training methods that not only enhance the necessary physical qualities but also prevent fatigue and injuries.This article focuses on the analysis of scientific literature and the review of modern physical training methods in youth football, particularly those used in the pre-competition period. It examines key concepts and approaches to developing the physical qualities of young footballers, their impact on the overall effectiveness of the training process, and the level of adaptation to competitive activities.Special attention is given to modern trends in athlete preparation, including the use of game-based methods, functional training, high- intensity interval training, and approaches that integrate physical and tactical development. Scientific research shows that optimal physical training for young football players is based on a comprehensive approach that includes a gradual increase in workload, individualization of training programs, and recovery control. Furthermore, the integration of traditional training methods with modern technologies for monitoring athletes’ physical conditions plays a crucial role in adjusting workloads according to individual characteristics.Thus, this article provides a detailed analysis of existing physical training methodologies for young footballers, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages while offering recommendations for implementing effective training programs in youth football teams.