This study aimed to investigate the effects of pre-exercise snack bars with different glycemic indices (GI) on soccer-specific performance. In a randomised crossover study design, 12 recreational soccer players consumed either low- or high-GI snack bars 1 h before 25 min small-sided game (SSG) training. Following the SSG training, the players` passing abilities were assessed using the Loughborough Soccer Passing Test (LSPT), followed by aerobic endurance capacities YOYO Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIRT), respectively. Continuous glucose monitors (CGM) were used to track the glycemic response during SSG training and all tests. The result showed that participants` performance was significantly better in the low-GI trial compared with the high-GI trial for the LSPT movement (58.27 ± 10.99 vs. 62.27 ± 7.63 s, p < 0.05), LSPT total (74.64 ± 22.66 vs. 83.18 ± 18.29 s, p < 0.05), and YYIRT (1196 ± 657 vs. 993 ± 536 m, p < 0.01). The CGM data indicated a lower mean (6.2 ± 0.7 vs. 7.1 ± 0.6 mmol/L, p < 0.01) and lower glycemic variability in postprandial interstitial glucose levels in the low-GI trial, compared with the high-GI trial. In conclusion, pre-exercise low-GI snacks could result in more stable glycemic responses and enhance soccer-specific performance.
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