Abstract
PurposeThe aim of this study was to quantify changes in physical capacities of thirty-eight basketball players selected from different teams, as well as from varying competitive levels (i.e. Division I, Division II and Division III) during the preparation and in-season periods.MethodsPre (T1) and post (T2) preparation period and during regular season (T3), the players completed a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery test—level 1. Following a 3 to 8 days-break, players performed a 6-min continuous running test (Mognoni’s test), a counter-movement jump test and a 5-min high-intensity intermittent running test.ResultsBlood lactate concentration measured after the Mognoni’s test was significantly reduced from T1 to T2, and from T2 to T3 (P<0.001, ƞ2 = 0.424). The distance covered during the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery test was significantly increased only from T1 to T2 in Division II and III (P<0.001, ƞ2 = 0.789). Similarly, the physiological responses to high-intensity intermittent running test were improved only from T1 to T2 (all P<0.001, ƞ2 = 0.495 to 0.652). Despite significant changes observed in running tests from T1 to T2, at individual level 35–55% of players did not show a very likely improvement. Relative peak power produced during vertical jumps at T3 by Division I players was increased compared to T1 (ANOVA interaction, P = 0.037, ƞ2 = 0.134).ConclusionsThe main improvements in physical capacities occurred during the preparation period, when the aerobic fitness and the ability to sustain high-intensity intermittent efforts were moderately-to-largely improved. However, it appears that the preparation period does not consistently impact on vertical jump variables. Aerobic fitness and force/power production during vertical jumps appear to improve across the competitive season (slightly-to-moderately). Physical tests should be used to identify weaknesses in physical performance of players and to monitor their fatigue status, with the aim to develop individualized training programs.
Highlights
Basketball is an intermittent team sport characterized by alternating low- and high-intensity phases, often requiring a variety of specific technical skills, frequent changes of direction and jumps [1, 2]
The distance covered during the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery test was significantly increased only from before the preparation period (T1) to after the preparation period (T2) in Division II and III (P
Despite significant changes observed in running tests from T1 to T2, at individual level 35– 55% of players did not show a very likely improvement
Summary
Basketball is an intermittent team sport characterized by alternating low- and high-intensity phases, often requiring a variety of specific technical skills, frequent changes of direction and jumps [1, 2]. The ability to sustain high-intensity intermittent efforts and to produce strength and power are important physical determinants during basketball competitions [3]. The assessment of players’ physical fitness across an entire basketball season indicates the effectiveness of conditioning programs and permits quantification of changes in fitness status of players across various phases of the season [4]. During the competitive phase of the season strength and conditioning programs aim to maintain players’ physical fitness, realistically, fitness may slightly increase or decrease [4, 7]. Strength and conditioning coaches should take into consideration the fitness status of their players in developing individualized training sessions or tapering strategies
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