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Objective: This study aimed to compare the maximum and rapid force production of Spanish football players and explore the differences between age group and level of competition. Methods: A cross-sectional study was developed to evaluate the peak force (PF), relative PF, and rate of force development over 250 ms (RFD0−250) during the isometric midthigh pull between groups of football players based on age group (senior vs junior) and level of competition (national vs regional). Using a portable isometric rig, 111 football players performed 2 isometric midthigh-pull trials on a force plate. Two-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc correction was applied, and statistical significance was set at P ≤.05. The PF, relative PF, and RFD0−250 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 percentiles were also calculated and descriptively reported, separated by age group and level of competition. Results: The analysis of variance revealed a significant main effect of the level of competition for the PF (P <.001), relative PF (P =.003), and RFD0−250 (P <.001). There was a significant main effect of age group for the PF (P <.001). There was a significant interaction effect of the age group × level of competition for relative PF (P =.014). National players were stronger than regional players on the PF and RFD0−250 (P <.001). Senior players were stronger than junior players for the PF (P <.001). Conclusions: Maximum and rapid force production are crucial for Spanish football players as they progress in both level of competition and age group. Practitioners should encourage young football players to prioritize strength development to improve their athletic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The increasing prevalence of high-intensity sports activities, notably the burgeoning popularity of CrossFit, underscores the contemporary significance of such physical pursuits. The discernible protective impact of branched-chain amino acids on muscle fatigue and injuries is emerging as a noteworthy area of investigation. Within the realm of sports, integrating BCAA supplementation into dietary practices holds promise for aiding athletes in their recovery, particularly in mitigating Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness. Methodology: This study adopted an experimental pilot design with repeated measures, employing a controlled and randomized approach through double-blind procedures. The participant engaged in high-intensity activity, specifically the CrossFit Karen® test, which entailed executing 150 wall ball throws (9 kg) to a height of 3 m. The trial incorporated three randomized supplementation conditions: BCAAs in an 8:1:1 ratio or a 2:1:1 ratio or a placebo condition. The participant consumed 15 g daily for 7 days, commencing 72 h prior to the initial blood sample and the first Karen® test. Results: In this study, BCAA supplementation at an 8:1:1 ratio demonstrated a discernible protective effect against muscular damage, as evidenced by creatine kinase values and ratings of perceived exertion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]