The effect of high-intensity interval training and magnesium lactate supplementation on the development of performance endurance and some basic skills in under-19 football players

Abstract

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) has emerged as one of the most effective modern training strategies, precisely simulating the movement patterns of football matches characterized by constant intensity fluctuations (explosive movements, sprinting, jogging, and stopping). With the increasing training loads associated with HIIT, there is a critical need to enhance recovery and muscular efficiency through scientific nutritional supplements, such as Magnesium Lactate. This supplement plays a dual role: it acts as a chemical buffer to reduce muscular acidity caused by lactic acid accumulation and provides essential magnesium to support neuromuscular functions. The research problem lies in the insufficiency of traditional methods to balance high training intensity with protecting young players from premature fatigue. Therefore, the researcher sought to study the combined effect of HIIT and Magnesium Lactate to determine the effectiveness of this integration in developing physical and skill variables. The study aims to provide a scientific solution that ensures U-19 players can sustain basic skill performance with high accuracy and resist fatigue under high-pressure match conditions. The study aims to identify the impact of HIIT and magnesium lactate on developing performance endurance and key basic skills in football players under 19. The hypothesis posits significant differences in post-tests between the two experimental groups, favoring the second experimental group (which utilized both HIIT and magnesium lactate). The research population was purposively selected from Karbala Football Club players (U-19) for the 2025-2026 season, totaling 25 players. The research sample consisted of 20 players after excluding 3 goalkeepers and 2 injured players. The sample was divided into two experimental groups (10 players each). The researcher concluded that HIIT was appropriate for improving performance endurance in U-19 football players. The study recommends the adoption of HIIT, emphasizing player commitment to training sessions and the precise regulation of training intensities.