# Arrangement Order Effects of Neuromuscular Training on the Physical Fitness of Youth Soccer Players
###### Abstract  
Knowledge is limited regarding how neuromuscular training, conducted before and after soccer training, affects the fitness levels of youth soccer players. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effects of an eight-week neuromuscular training (NMT) program implemented before or after a soccer session on physical fitness in youth soccer players. Thirty-two youth soccer players were categorized into two groups--namely, NMT before soccer-specific training (NBS; \(n=15\)) and NMT after soccer-specific training (NAS; \(n=17\)). NMT comprised integrated resistance, dynamic stability, core, and pyometric training three times weekly and was conducted for 8 weeks. Before and after the exercise intervention, the counter-movement jump (CMJ) and 10 and 20 m sprint were analyzed, and the results of the T-agility test, Illinois change of direction test (ICDT), and Y-balance test were assessed for all participants. In terms of the interaction between the effects of the time of observation and group, both groups showed improvement in the results of the 10 m sprint and T-agility and Y-balance tests. Regarding the difference in the time of observation, the NBS group showed positive improvements in the results of the CMJ, 10 and 20 m sprints, and T-agility test after the exercise intervention, and the NAS group showed positive improvements in the results of the CMJ, 10 m sprint, T-agility test, and ICDT after the exercise intervention. These findings suggest that neuromuscular training has the potential to improve the 10 m sprint ability and T-agility test results of youth soccer players, regardless of the training sequence.  
eurmuscular training; physical fitness; youth soccer players; training arrangement sequence +
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exercise can effectively enhance neural adaptations in adolescents, including increased motor unit activation, synchronization, and recruitment and excitation frequency [4, 5]. In particular, the development of neural and physical fitness in youth soccer players is important to determine whether they will successfully adapt to high levels of play in the future [6].  
Neuromuscular training (NMT) is an effective method for improving sport and motor skill performance because it integrates strength, movement, and conditioning exercises (resistance, balance, speed, agility, and plyometrics) for the muscles specifically required in sports [7]. According to a previous study, NMT performed in a physical education class improved health-related physical fitness factors in a 7-year-old child [8]. NMT favorably affects the strength, speed, and agility of youth soccer players [9]. In addition, [PERSON] et al. [10] reported that in youth soccer players approximately eight years of age, NMT conducted for 12 weeks improved balance, flexibility, and vertical jump ability.  
Consensus regarding the positive effects of NMT is lacking. Moreover, disagreements exist regarding training sequencing [11]. Little research exists on the habitual training practices of youth soccer players and the effectiveness of resulting exercise interventions, and no studies have investigated the sequencing of NMT and sport-specific training in youth soccer. In addition, whether the order of conducting NMT is an important factor in training programs for youth soccer players is a debatable point. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of different NMT sequences on several physical fitness variables in youth soccer players.