Analysis of positional training loads (ratings of perceived exertion) during various-sided games in European professional soccer players

Abstract

The primary aim of the study was to perform a comparative analysis of the positional training loads during various game formats among European professional soccer players. Twenty-two male professional soccer players participated in the investigation and were divided into their tactical positional roles for analysis. Ratings of perceived exertion were collected daily and corresponded to specific formatted game types (small-sided games; large-sided games; large-sided games within a smaller area size) implemented as part of the weekly periodised training structure. Across the sample period, only one game per week training scenarios were analysed (9 × small-sided games; 9 × large-sided games; 9 × large-sided games within a smaller area size). Analysis of the mean ratings of perceived exertion between various game formats revealed significant differences between large-sided games within a smaller area size vs. small-sided games (5.53 vs. 7.79; p = 0.007); however, no differences were presented between small-sided games vs. large-sided games format types (7.9 vs. 7.35; p > 0.05). No differences between mean ratings of perceived exertion and small-sided games and large-sided games, respectively, were found. Differences were shown between positional demands during large-sided games within a smaller area size game type formats, with wide forwards reporting higher mean ratings of perceived exertion values when compared against centre forwards ( p = 0.02). Therefore, within a periodised microcycle, variance of game formats can be used to manipulate training loads, manage accumulation of fatigue through a tapering method in order to facilitate optimal match preparation. Furthermore, players of certain position types may require additional training stimulus to induce the desired physical adaptations.