A Meta-Analysis of the Most Effective Training Programs for Developing Speed Endurance in Young Male Football Players in Northern Iraq

The distribution of fat and muscle plays a crucial role in motor performance. While individuals with a mesomorphic body type (muscular) exhibit faster neuromuscular response, which enhances the effectiveness of explosive exercises, those with an endomorphic body type (muscular-fat) demonstrate greater endurance capacity.This study aimed to:• Investigate the relationship between somatotypes (mesomorph and endomorph) and physical strength performance in men.In light of this aim, the researchers proposed the following hypothesis:• There is a statistically significant relationship between somatotypes (mesomorph and endomorph) and physical strength performance.The researchers adopted the descriptive correlational method as appropriate for the nature of this study. The experiment was conducted on a sample of 12 advanced-level male powerlifting athletes from Duhok Governorate, divided into two groups (somatotypes), each consisting of 6 players, selected purposefully based on fat and muscle indices. The experiment involved three physical strength tests performed sequentially:(Bench Press, Squat ,Deadlift)Statistical tools used included mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, skewness, Pearson correlation coefficient, and t-test.The researchers arrived at the following conclusions:1. No statistically significant differences were found between the mesomorphic and endomorphic groups in isolated exercises (e.g., bench press), indicating that increased muscle mass does not significantly affect the performance of exercises relying on neuromuscular efficiency and the balance of small muscle groups.2. Significant differences were observed in favor of the endomorphic group in compound exercises (e.g., squat and deadlift), confirming that compound, absolute-strength-based movements depend more heavily on total muscle mass and the ability to generate muscular torque.Data were collected using a custom-designed analysis form and evaluated statistically through effect size calculations (Cohen’s d). The results revealed significant variation in effectiveness across programs, with effect sizes ranging from 0.213 (below acceptable) to 8.807 (optimal). The average effect size across studies was 1.808, indicating an optimal level of impact. Programs that combined diverse training methods (e.g., interval, plyometric, and circuit training) produced the highest effectiveness. Notably, some programs showed high or optimal effect sizes despite lacking statistical significance, underscoring the importance of using effect size as a complementary indicator.The study concludes that relying solely on statistical significance is insufficient for evaluating training outcomes and recommends incorporating effect size analysis in future research. Additionally, coaches are advised to apply varied and structured training methods to enhance leg speed endurance effectively in young football players.