Physical capacities related to running performance during simulated matches in young futsal players

Abstract

This study aimed to verify the relationship between physical capacities and distance covered during simulated matches in young futsal players. Sixteen under-19 male futsal players of regional level (age 18.1 ± 0.96 years, body mass 67.4 ± 9.7 kg, height 176 ± 5 cm) participated in this study. Players performed the futsal intermittent endurance test (FIET), maximal shuttle run test (MST), squat jump and countermovement jump tests. Two simulated futsal matches were performed to assess the distance covered at different intensities. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression were used for statistical analysis. The main results showed significant correlation of peak velocity obtained in the FIET (PVFIET) (15.8 ± 0.6 km h−1) with distance covered per minute (r = 0.85, p < 0.01) and distance covered at high intensity (r = 0.60, p = 0.03). Fatigue index (5.6 ± 1.9%) correlated with the distance covered at high intensity (r = − 0.70, p = 0.01) and percentage of distance covered in sprint (r = − 0.69, p = 0.01). The PVFIET and best time in the MST (8.48 ± 0.38 s) explained 50% of the variance in the total distance covered; whereas, the PVFIET explained 73% of the distance covered per minute. The fatigue index was a negative predictor of high-intensity running and explained 40% of its variance. PVFIET is one of the most important variables capable of predicting physical futsal match-related performance. Moreover, the capacity to resist fatigue during repeated sprints and the maximal sprinting speed of players were related to high-intensity running performance during the matches.