Practice and match workload of a female tennis player in two annual seasons: A single-case study

Abstract

The aim of this single case study was to monitor the external workload of a professional female tennis player between 314 training sessions and 115 matches. A wearable device was used during two fully consecutive tennis seasons (24 months). External workload was determined using time indicators (total and active session times), shots indicators (shots per week, session, hour, rally and minute) and frequency distribution of rallies. This case study showed that the workload during practice sessions was higher compared to matches in terms of active time, percentage of active time, shots per hour and rally, and frequency distribution of rallies with more than nine shots. The number of shots executed per minute was lower in the practice sessions than in the match. It is concluded that the recommended number of shots per hour in a 90-min practice session is for the player to perform 400 to 800 shots. The recommended average number of rallies in practice sessions is 144 and 70% of the rallies should consist of four shots. The pace of rallies in open match situations in the practice sessions should reach the level of official matches. These conclusions could be useful guidelines for determining the workload of female tennis players participating in entry-level professional tournaments.