Systematic review of sprint training on acceleration and maximum speed in soccer players

Abstract

In soccer, acceleration and top sprint speed are the basis for game-changing moves. However, the rapid introduction of various training methods has fragmented the evidence, complicating decision-making for practitioners. This systematic review synthesized controlled training research to identify which sprint-related interventions improve acceleration and top sprint speed in soccer players, and which programme features lead to the greatest improvements. The study adhered to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A Boolean search of Scopus (20 December 2025; 2021–2025) yielded 1,105 records. After removing 15 duplicates and screening, 18 controlled intervention studies met the eligibility criteria (association football sample, sprint-oriented training, and a recorded acceleration or maximum-speed outcome). Screening was conducted by a single reviewer, and no inter-rater reliability coefficient was computed, which is acknowledged as a limitation. The MMAT (2018) was used for quality appraisal. Due to substantial heterogeneity in interventions, comparators, and outcome definitions, a narrative thematic synthesis was performed instead of meta-analysis. The two main findings were: first, resisted sprint techniques consistently improved short-distance acceleration, particularly when external load was individualized for maximum horizontal power; however, effect sizes varied across studies and were not pooled. Second, volume-matched modalities often produced similar changes, suggesting that compliance and specificity may be more important than any single method. Biological maturation also moderated adaptations. This review integrates dose-response principles for speed development and highlights the need for maturity-stratified trials that directly report maximal-velocity outcomes.