Acute and Residual Physical Fatigue, Along With Recovery Time Following Sided Games: A Scoping Review and Evidence Gap Map Focusing on Methodological Aspects

Abstract

This scoping review aimed to (i) map methodological characteristics of studies investigating acute and residual fatigue and recovery after small-sided games (SSGs), (ii) identify outcomes, measures, and timings assessed across neuromuscular, psychophysiological, and biochemical/endocrine domains, and (iii) highlight evidence gaps to inform future research. Following a registered protocol (OSF: osf.io/73rzs) and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, three databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science) were searched to July 2025. Eligible studies included Tier ≥2 athletes, examined SSGs as interventions, and reported pre–post neuromuscular, psychophysiological and biochemical/endocrine outcomes. Data were extracted on populations, competitive level, SSG formats, outcomes, and timings, and synthesized descriptively with evidence gap maps. From 3,842 records, 32 studies were included. Most involved men soccer players at Tier 3, with fewer on women, other sports, or adaptive contexts. SSG formats clustered around 3v3 - 4v4. Psychophysiological measures were most frequently reported, generally showing acute elevations in heart rate and rating of perceived exertion and short-lived reductions in heart rate variability. Neuromuscular outcomes included sprint and hamstring strength, often reduced up to 48 - 72 h, while countermovement jump results were inconsistent. Biochemical/endocrine measures typically showed acute rises in lactate and short-term creatine kinase elevations, with hormonal findings less consistent. Assessments were concentrated immediately post and at 24 h, with fewer extending beyond 48 h. As conclusion, current evidence suggests that SSGs are associated with acute psychophysiological strain and, in some cases, short-term neuromuscular and biochemical disturbances, but findings vary across studies. Given the methodological heterogeneity and narrow scope of populations, conclusions must be interpreted with caution.