Elite Female Players Research Articles

Same game, different worlds? General conditions, perceived stress, and associations between stress and past season injuries in elite female and male ice hockey players.

Ice hockey is played by women and men but the arena they play in may differ substantially. Potential differences in general conditions to play the sport may be associated to perceived stress, which has shown to be related to athletic injury in other sports. Therefore, this study aimed to describe and compare general conditions for playing ice hockey, stress levels, and the association between perceived stress and injury occurrence among elite female and male players. Prior to the 2022-2023 season all female and male players from the top ice hockey leagues in Sweden were invited to an online survey. Players provided information about their general conditions for playing ice hockey and reported perceived stress during the previous season on the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10; sum score range 0-40) and current stress on the Single Item Stress Question (SISQ; scale range 1-5). Injuries during the previous season were self-reported on a modified version of the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center - Overuse Injury Questionnaire. We received responses from 360 players (170 females and 190 males). Female players more frequently reported additional occupations besides ice hockey and less medical support during games and practices than male players (p < .001). General stress levels were significantly higher among female players (mean PSS score [SD]: 17.4 [5.6] vs 14.1 [5.6], p < 0.001; SISQ median [IQR]: 3 [2-3] vs 2 [1-3], p < 0.001). There was a statistically significant but weak correlation between past season injury and perceived stress (PSS score: rho 0.29; SISQ: rho 0.24). This correlation was stronger among males than females (PSS score: 0.38 vs 0.162; SISQ: 0.29 vs 0.16, p's < 0.05). Players with substantial injuries during previous season had higher previous and current stress levels than players without injury, a difference that was largest and statistically significant only among male players. General conditions for playing elite ice hockey are inequal for female and male athletes. Stress levels of elite ice hockey players were comparable to the general population. Experience of severe injuries during the previous season was associated to higher levels of perceived stress. This association is stronger among male players, which may be due to greater economic dependency.

The Strength Characteristics of Elite and Subelite Female Gaelic Football Players.

Hughes, W, Healy, R, Lyons, M, Higginbotham, C, Lane, A, and Beattie, K. The strength characteristics of elite and subelite female Gaelic football players. J Strength Cond Res 38(6): 1072-1081, 2024-There is currently an underrepresentation of sports science research focused on the female athlete, specifically in the context of Gaelic football. The aims of this study are to (a) compare the strength characteristics of elite and subelite players and (b) establish normative-based values and percentile scores for the strength characteristics of female Gaelic football players. Ninety-two female Gaelic football players were recruited for this study and subsequently categorized as elite (intercounty n = 30, age; 25.1 ± 5.3 years, stature; 1.69 ± 0.06 m, mass; 69.5 ± 5.9 kg) or subelite (club n = 62, age; 25.4 ± 6.8 years, stature; 1.66 ± 0.06 m, mass; 65.1 ± 8.9 kg). The physical strength characteristics of the subjects were assessed through the isometric midthigh pull (IMTP), countermovement jump (CMJ), and 10-5 repeated jump test. Statistically significant differences were found in the physical strength characteristics between the groups with elite players demonstrating greater peak force (large effect), relative peak force (moderate effect), and reactive strength index (large effect). Statistically significant differences were also observed for key CMJ phase characteristics with elite players producing greater RSI mod (moderate effect), jump height (large effect), and propulsion peak power (large effect) than subelite players. This study demonstrated that there are moderate to large differences between playing standards with elite players displaying superior reactive-, explosive-, and maximal-strength than their subelite counterparts. The strength characteristics evaluated in this study may be used in conjunction with other performance indices to distinguish between elite and subelite playing standards in female Gaelic football players.

Trends in anthropometric and somatotype profiles of Brazilian female futsal players: a 20 year study.

This study describes the anthropometric measurements and somatotype of the elite female futsal players from Brazil in 2021 and analyse the changes and trends over time in these physical characteristics. Data were collected from the 396 female futsal players, of whom; 169 players were assessed in 2021 then compared to those assessed in 2001 (n=112) and 2011 (n-115). Anthropometric measurements, including body weight, height, breadths, girths, and skinfolds were assessed. The somatotype was calculated and graphically represented. The changes between 2021 and the previous years were analysed using ANOVA and multiple linear regression. A jointpoint regression was performed to verify the annual percentage change. The comparison between 2021 data versus the other time points showed a higher age and lower fat content (2001: 22.7 ± 5.1 BF%; 2011: 22.2 ± 5.2 BF%; 2021: 19.0 ± 5.1 BF%). Players from 2021 had higher tensed arm and relaxed calf girths. All the positions, excluding pivots, significantly decreased their body fat units between 2021 and 2001 (goalkeeper: b=-4.49; defender: b=-2.78; winger: b=-4.48). Over the last 20 years, body fat reduced, and tensed arm and relaxed calf girths increased, suggesting an increase in fat-free mass content from the limbs.

Cross-Sectional Study of the Anthropometric Profile and Nutrient Status of Elite Female Ice Hockey Players: Differences by Play Position.

Both the characteristics of ice hockey and the environmental conditions in which it is played affect the maintenance of the player's nutritional status and, therefore, their state of health and performance. The primary aim of this work was to examine the anthropometric profile, estimated energy expenditure, and macronutrient and micronutrient dietary intake of elite female ice hockey players by play position. As a secondary aim, their dietary intakes were compared with the recommendations. Hypotheses suggest variations in body composition based on ice hockey players' positions, with the expectation that these athletes may not align with energy and nutrient recommendations. Fifteen elite female ice hockey players were anthropometrically measured, basal metabolic rate and total energy expenditure were estimated, a 3-day, 24 h recall questionnaire was registered, and the results were compared with the recommended dietary intake for the Spanish population. Each player's position on the field requires an individualized physical and nutritional approach. There are no significant imbalances (p > 0.05) between energy and nutrient intake in relation to the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI); however, increasing the consumption of vegetables and seafood while reducing meat and fat intake would assist these athletes in maintaining a healthier energy balance, optimizing body composition, and aligning with nutritional parameters that are better suited to enhance physical performance.

Visual exploratory activity in elite women’s soccer: an analysis of the UEFA Women’s European Championship 2022

ABSTRACT Recent research has developed understanding of the technical and tactical determinants of success in elite women’s soccer, however a lack of research exists on analysing how elite female players visually explore their environment to support skilled soccer performance. This study aimed to describe the visual exploratory activity (VEA) of elite female central midfield players and understand the relationships between VEA, performance with the ball and specific contextual and situational factors. Thirty female central midfield players (M age = 26.7 years, SD = 3.8) from the eight teams who competed in the knock-out stages of UEFA Women’s European Championship 2022 were analysed. Television broadcast and UEFA tactical footage were combined to analyse players across the seven knock-out stage matches, totalling 1,038 individual ball possessions. The mean scan frequency before receiving the ball was 0.35 scans/second. Results showed pitch location when receiving the ball to be the main predictor of scan frequency, which in turn predicted action result (p = 0.003) and turn with the ball (p = 0.003). Scan frequencies were lower compared to men’s elite and academy players. This study sets a platform for experimental research to further our understanding of VEA and performance with the ball in women’s soccer.

Injury Incidence, Severity, and Type Across the Menstrual Cycle in Female Footballers: A Prospective Three Season Cohort Study.

The aim of the study was to assess the influence of menstrual cycle phase on injury incidence, severity, and type in elite female professional footballers over three seasons. Time-loss injuries and menstrual cycle data were prospectively recorded for 26 elite female football players across three seasons. The menstrual cycle was categorized into four phases using a standardized model: menstruation (phase 1; P1), remainder of follicular phase (phase 2; P2), early luteal (phase 3; P3), and premenstrual phase (phase 4; P4). Injury incidence rates (IIR) and ratios (IIRR) were calculated for overall injuries, injury severity, type, contact vs noncontact, and game/training. A total of 593 cycles across 13,390 d were tracked during the study, and 74 injuries from 26 players were eligible for analysis. When comparing IIR between phases (reference: P1), overall injury rates were highest in P4 (IIRR, 2.30 (95% confidence interval, 0.99-5.34; P = 0.05)). When examining rates by injury severity and type, IIR values were also highest in P4 for ≤7 d' time-loss (4.40 (0.93-20.76; P = 0.06)), muscle-specific (6.07 (1.34-27.43; P = 0.02)), and noncontact (3.05 (1.10-8.50; P = 0.03)) injuries. Muscle-specific (IIRR P3/P1, 5.07 (1.16-22.07; P = 0.03)) and ≤7 d' time-loss (4.47 (1.01-19.68; P = 0.05)) injury risk was also significantly higher in P3. Muscle injuries were the most prevalent subtype ( n = 41). No anterior cruciate ligament injuries were recorded across the monitoring period. Injury risk was significantly elevated during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (P3 and P4) among elite female professional footballers. Further research is urgently needed to better understand the influence of the menstrual cycle on injury risk and to develop interventions to mitigate risk.

Predicting sports performance of elite female football players through smart wearable measurement platform.

Recent development of information technology and wearable devices has led to the analysis of multidimensional sports information and the enhancement of athletes' sports performance convenient and potentially more efficient. In this study, we present a novel data platform tailored for capturing athletes' cognitive, physiological, and body composition data. This platform incorporates diverse visualization modes, enabling athletes and coaches to access data seamlessly. Fourteen elite female football players (average age=20.6±1.3years; 3 forwards, 5 midfielders, 4 defenders, and 2 goalkeepers) were recruited from National Taiwan Normal University, Taiwan, as the primary observational group, and 12 female university students without regular sport/exercise habits (average age=21.6±1.3years) were recruited as control group. Through multidimensional data analysis, we identified significant differences in limb muscle mass and several cognitive function scores (e.g., reaction times of attention and working memory) between elite female football varsity team and general female university students. Furthermore, 1-month heart rate data obtained from wearable devices revealed a significant negative correlation between average heart rate median and cognitive function scores. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of this platform as an efficient multidimensional data collection and analysis platform. Therefore, valuable insights between cognitive functions, physiological signals and body composition can be obtained via this multidimensional platform for facilitating sports performance.

Ab. No. 164 A Cross-Sectional Study to Identify Prevalence and Factors Contributing to Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports (Red-S) in Indian Female Athletes

Introduction: The syndrome of RED-S (Relative energy deficiency in sports) refers to symptoms caused due to impaired physiological function including, decreased metabolic rate, menstrual function, bone health, immunity, protein synthesis, and cardiovascular health caused by relative energy deficiency. The study aims to identify the prevalence and the causes of RED-S in the Indian context. Methods: A Cross-sectional survey study was conducted on elite female players in and around Karnataka on 120 elite Female athletes between the ages of 16-30 who self-completed the RED-S questionnaire. Result: 31 participants (29%) were at low risk, 76 participants (71%) were at moderate risk and no participants were at high risk. Major causes of RED-S in the Indian context are increased activity level, decreased BMD, and psychological factors. Conclusion: A significant number of female athletes are at moderate risk of RED-S, so medical and coaching staff should include appropriate screening and intervention strategies to reduce the risk and improve their overall health and performance. Implications: One of the main goals of the sports movement is to support and promote health and well-being. Good health is also a prerequisite for short-term and long-term sports success. Therefore, it is important to focus on the potential health challenges of athletes of all ages and abilities.

The effect of electro-magnetic-energy-regulation therapy on subjective sleep among elite players in Norwegian women's football.

The current study investigated if Bio-Electro-Magnetic-Energy-Regulation (BEMER) therapy is affecting subjective sleep among a sample of 21 elite female football players in a Norwegian top series club. Subjective sleep was measured each day over a period of 273 consecutive days by using a smartphone application, PM Reporter Pro, which scheduled push messages to remind the participants to report sleep every morning. The study was conducted as a quasi-experimental design, with a control period before the introduction of BEMER therapy that lasted for 3 months, followed by an intervention period where BEMER therapy was used that lasted for 5 months. The collected data from the players in the control period served as their control compared to the data collected from the players in the intervention period. Analyses of variance (ANOVA) with False Discovery Rate adjusted p-values show that subjective sleep duration and subjective sleep quality are significantly reduced on game nights, both in the control period and in the experiment period. The results also show that subjective sleep duration and subjective sleep quality significantly increase in the experiment period compared to the control period. The findings indicate that BEMER therapy might serve as a tool to improve sleep.

Energy Expenditure of Elite Male and Female Professional Tennis Players During Habitual Training.

Understanding the daily energy expenditure of athletes during training is important to support recovery, adaptation, and the maintenance of performance. The aim of the current research was to assess the total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) and the acute energy expenditure (EE) of tennis training sessions during habitual training of elite tennis players. Using a cohort study design, 27 (n = 10, male; age; 22.3 ± 3.2years and n = 17, female; age: 23.8 ± 3.5years) elite singles tennis players were assessed for TDEE and tennis training EE. Using Actiheart activity monitors during a 2- to 5-day training period, male players were analyzed for 26days and 33 (1.3 ± 0.5sessions/day) tennis training sessions, and female players for 43days and 58 (1.2 ± 0.4sessions/day) tennis training sessions. Male TDEE (4,708 ± 583kcal/day) was significantly higher than female (3,639 ± 305kcal/day). Male absolute and relative tennis training EEs (10.2 ± 2.3kcal/min and 7.9 ± 1.4kcal·hr-1·kg-1) were significantly higher than those of females (7.6 ± 1.0kcal/min and 6.8 ± 0.9kcal·hr-1·kg-1). The resting metabolic rate was assessed via indirect calorimetry. The physical activity level for both groups was 2.3AU. The TDEE of male and female players during habitual training now highlights the continual cycle of high energy demands experienced by the elite tennis player. The broad ranges of TDEE and EE reported here suggest individual assessment and nutritional planning be prioritized, with a particular focus on carbohydrate requirements.

The Landing Biomechanics in Youth Female Handball Players Does Not Change When Applying a Specific Model of Game and Weekly Training Workload

This study aimed to explore the effects of competitive match play and subsequent training during typical competitive microcycle on landing biomechanics in female youth handball players. A group of 11 elite female youth players (age: 14.3 ± 0.6 years; stature: 165.9 ± 8.1 cm; body mass: 58.4 ± 10.6 kg; maturity offset: 0.4 ± 0.8 years) were tested prior to a competitive match, immediately after the match, 48 h after the match, 96 h after the match, and before the next match. The players performed two analyzed trials of a single leg (preferred) counter movement jump. The “Landing Error Scoring System” (LESS) was used to analyze the participants’ landing biomechanics. Results: There was no significant effect of a competitive handball match on LESS (Z = 0.28; p = 0.78). No statistically significant difference in LESS was found between the first and the last measurement (Z = 1.01; p = 0.31). No significant main effect of time was found for landing biomechanics in the observed eight-day period (χ2 = 4.02; p = 0.40). The results of the study indicate that a model of weekly loading during in-season, including competitive match play, does not decrease lower limb biomechanics during landing and does not contribute to an increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury in female youth handball players during a competitive microcycle.

Performance of Elite Women's Singles Badminton Players: The Influence of Left-Handed Players.

The purpose of the study was to analyze the influence of left-handed athletes on the opponent (right-handed players) of elite badminton women's singles. The study selected a total of 40 women's singles matches played by elite female players: twenty matches (42 games, n = 42) were played between left-handed and right-handed players and twenty matches (44 games, n = 44) were played between two right-handed players. There were significant (p < 0.05) differences in hitting positions, techniques, routes and landing points. No significant (p > 0.05) differences were found in scores per game and frequency distribution of rally outcomes. In conclusion, the details of technical and tactical application were different in two game forms, the main impact of the left-handed player on the opponent's (right-handed player) game was a decrease in the opponent's stroke in the overhead, an increase in the number of drives, predominance of small slashes and a decrease in big slashes.

Changes in Anthropometric Characteristics and Isokinetic Muscle Strength in Elite Team Sport Players during an Annual Training Cycle

The aim of the present research was to investigate the variation in the anthropometric characteristics and the isokinetic muscle strength of elite female team sport players during a season (29–36 weeks). Three groups of female athletes that consisted of soccer (n = 19; age, 23.2 ± 4.3 years), basketball (n = 26, 21.1 ± 5.4 years) and handball players (n = 26, 21.1 ± 4.2 years) underwent anthropometric and isokinetic measurements at the beginning of the preparation period, in the middle and at the end of the competitive season. Isokinetic peak torque values of the hamstrings (H) and quadriceps (Q), as well as the conventional strength ratios of H:Q, were tested on an isokinetic dynamometer at angular velocities of 60, 180 and 300°·s−1. Body weight, lean body mass and body fat of all groups decreased from the first to the third testing session (p &lt; 0.05). Isokinetic peak torque gradually increased during the three measurements (p &lt; 0.05). The soccer players had lower body weight and body fat compared to the basketball and handball players (p &lt; 0.05). Isokinetic peak torque in knee flexion did not show any difference between the sports at any angular velocity or knee movement (flexion and extension), with an exception of the 180°·s−1. The improvement observed for all athletes can be attributed to the training programs that collectively characterize these team sports.

The role of increased post-impact ball speed on plantar pressure during topspin and slice longline forehand groundstrokes in female tennis players.

Performing groundstrokes is a fundamental skill for tennis players. However, little is known about changes in plantar pressure when post-impact ball speed is increased during topspin and slice groundstrokes. The objective of the present study was to examine how elite (International Tennis Number ≤ 2) female tennis players (N = 15, mean age: 22.7 ± 7.8 years) change their plantar pressure in the dominant (equals the stroke arm) and non-dominant foot when executing topspin and slice longline forehand groundstrokes in order to increase post-impact ball speed (i.e., 80km/h, 90km/h, 100km/h, vmax). The repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a significant ball speed × foot dominance interaction. Post-hoc analyses showed larger mean forces during topspin compared to slice groundstrokes for the dominant foot (p ≤ .026, d ≥ 0.34) but lower values for the non-dominant foot (p ≤ .050, d ≥ 0.28). Further, with increasing post-impact ball speed, increases in mean forces in both feet during topspin could be observed but only in the dominant foot during slice groundstrokes. Varying mean forces depending on the stroke type and foot dominance imply that specific physical exercises related to these two factors are necessary to optimise plantar pressure distribution.

Assessing aerobic endurance in elite female cricket players

To assess and compare the aerobic endurance levels of elite female cricket players from Bangladesh and India. This study’s participants were 50 elite female cricket players (ages 18-30 years), with 25 players from each country. They were all considered elite players based on their performance and experience in national and international cricket tournaments. To measure aerobic endurance fitness, the participants underwent a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 1 (YYIRT1), which is widely used to measure an individual's maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and aerobic capacity. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The test of Normality, mean, and standard deviation were calculated for each group, and a t-test was used to compare the mean scores of the two groups. A p-value of less than .05 is considered statistically significant. The data were analysed using the statistical software SPSS version 26. The study found that the Indian female cricket players had a significantly higher aerobic endurance fitness level than the Bangladeshi players. The mean VO2max of the Indian players was 46.76 ml/kg/min, while the Bangladeshi players' mean VO2max was 43.60 ml/kg/min. Additionally, the Indian players had a higher mean score in total distance covered in YYIRT1 (1233.6 m) than the Bangladeshi players (857.6). These differences were found to be statistically significant (p &lt; .05). These findings suggest that there may be a difference in the training and preparation methods between the two countries, leading to a higher aerobic endurance fitness level among Indian players.

Comparative Analysis of Anthropometric Characteristics and Body Composition among Elite Female Futsal Players in Montenegro, North Macedonia and Croatia

Anthropometric characteristics and body composition play an important role in achievements in most sports, however, there are still no specific recommendations on anthropometry-body composition for women in futsal. The research aimed to determine differences in anthropometric characteristics and body composition between elite female futsal players, members of the best futsal clubs in Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Croatia. The sample of respondents consisted of 30 elite female futsal players. The first sub-sample consisted of players from Montenegro (n=11, 19.18±2.44 yrs), the second sub-sample consisted of players from North Macedonia (n=10, 18.10±3.03 yrs), and the last sub-sample was consisted by players from Croatia (n=9, 20.33±5.17 yrs). Anthropometric characteristics and body composition were evaluated by a battery of 11 variables: body height (BH), body mass (BM), triceps skinfold (TS), biceps skinfold (BiS), back skinfold (BS), abdominal skinfold (AS), upper leg skinfold (UlS), lower leg skinfold (LlS), body mass index (BMI), fat percentage (FP), and muscle mass percentages (MP). Based on the ANOVA and post-hoc tests, findings showed that have differences between the groups in 4 anthropometric parameters such body height, body mass, abdominal skinfold, and muscle mass percentages. Female futsal players from Montenegro and Croatia have significantly higher results in parameters such as body height, body mass, and muscle mass percentages. While futsal players from Montenegro have significantly higher abdominal skinfold values than Croatia. The results suggest that there is some difference in anthropometry- body composition between groups of female futsal players, but for more complete conclusions an analysis should be performed on a larger sample of high-level female futsal players. However, despite that, this research made a significant contribution because it was the first to identify differences in anthropometric characteristics and body composition among elite female futsal players from different countries in this part of the world. In this way, it has opened the doors for further research into the anthropometry of female futsal players in this region.

The effect of a sports bra intervention on perceived breast pain and movement, and bra comfort and support in elite female cricket players

The effect of a sports bra intervention on perceived breast pain and movement, and bra comfort and support in elite female cricket players

Is the tackle technique associated with peak head inertial kinematics in elite female rugby league players?

Is the tackle technique associated with peak head inertial kinematics in elite female rugby league players?

Mechanical Determinants of Sprinting and Change of Direction in Elite Female Field Hockey Players.

Profile determination in field hockey is critical to determining athletes' physical strengths and weaknesses, and is key in planning, programming, and monitoring training. This study pursued two primary objectives: (i) to provide descriptive data on sprinting, deceleration, and change of direction (COD) abilities and (ii) to elucidate the mechanical variables that influence sprint and COD performance in elite female field hockey players. Using radar and time-gate technology, we assessed performance and mechanical data from 30 m sprinting, deceleration, and COD tests for 26 elite female hockey players. A machine learning approach identified mechanical variables related to sprint and COD performance. Our findings offer a framework for athlete categorization and the design of performance-enhancing training strategies at the international level. Two pivotal mechanical variables-relative maximum horizontal force (F0) and maximum velocity (Vmax)-predominantly influence the times across all tested distances. However, the force-velocity profile (FVP) and horizontal deceleration do not influence the variance in the COD test outcomes. These insights can guide the design, adjustment, and monitoring of training programs, assisting coaches in decision making to optimize performance and mitigate injury risks for female hockey players.

Effects of 2 Different Protocols of Repeated-Sprint Training in Hypoxia in Elite Female Rugby Sevens Players During an Altitude Training Camp.

Repeated-sprint training in hypoxia (RSH) is an effective way of improving physical performance compared with similar training in normoxia. RSH efficiency relies on hypoxia severity, but also on the oxidative-glycolytic balance determined by both sprint duration and exercise-to-rest ratio. This study investigated the effect of 2 types of RSH sessions during a classic altitude camp in world-class female rugby sevens players. Sixteen players performed 5 RSH sessions on a cycle ergometer (simulated altitude: 3000m above sea level [asl]) during a 3-week natural altitude camp (1850m asl). Players were assigned to 2 different protocols with either a high (RSH1:3, sprint duration: 8-10s; exercise-to-rest ratios: 1:2-1:3; n = 7) or a low exercise-to-rest ratio (RSH1:5, sprint duration: 5-15s; exercise-to-rest ratios: 1:2-1:5; n = 9). Repeated-sprint performances (maximal and mean power outputs [PPOmax, and PPOmean]) were measured before and after the intervention, along with physiological responses. PPOmax (962 [100] to 1020 [143]W, P = .008, Cohen d = 0.47) and PPOmean (733 [71] to 773 [91]W, P = .008, d = 0.50) increased from before to after. A significant interaction effect (P = .048, d = 0.50) was observed for PPOmean, with a larger increase observed in RSH1:3 (P = .003). No interaction effects were observed (P > .05) for the other variables. A classic altitude camp with 5 RSH sessions superimposed on rugby-sevens-specific training led to an improved repeated-sprint performance, suggesting that RSH effects are not blunted by prolonged hypoxic exposure. Interestingly, using a higher exercise-to-rest ratio during RSH appears to be more effective than when applying a lower exercise-to-rest ratio.