Exploring external load variations in elite female soccer players during 6v6 small-sided games

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe and compare the external loads response of elite female soccer players to different small-sided games (SSG). Twelve elite female soccer players (26.5 ± 5.7 years, 58.6 ± 5.6 kg, 164.4 ± 5.3 cm) performed four different 6vs6 SSG: two different sizes (20x20m and 30x30m) and with minigoals (MG) and without mini-goals (NG). Methods: Total distance (TD), low-intensity running distance (LIR), high-intensity running distance (HIR), sprint distance (SD), accelerations (ACC), decelerations (DEC), repeated sprints (RS) and Bodyload (BL) was collected using a 15Hz global positioning satellite system. The variables were compared across all SSG formats using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (p<.05) and non-clinical magnitude-based inferences (Cohen´s d). Results: Compared to 20x20m SSG, the 30x30m SSG induced greater TD (p=.001, d=1.20), LIR (p=.001, d=1.06), HIR (p=.001, d=1.20) and BL (p=.008, d=1.04) in NG condition. Similarly, in SSG with MG, greater number of ACC (p=.003, d=.38), DEC (p=.005, d=.42), LIR (p=.009, d=.86) and HIR (p=.070 d=.61) occurred in 30x30m vs. 20x20m. When NG 30x30m and 20x20m SSG were played, greater TD (p=.001, d=1.70; p=.001, d=1.13; respectively), LIR (p=.001, d=1.84; p=.001, d=1.39), ACC (p=.54, d=.39; p=.003, d=.74; respectively) and BL (p=.001, d=1.60; p=.001, d=1.15; respectively) were noted compared to MG. Conclusion: greater external load response of elite female soccer players was observed in SSG without mini-goals and played in greater pitch sizes. These findings are usefulness for coaches and physical trainers to design proper training tasks according to game demands.