Total Player Load Research Articles

External Physical Demands during Official Under-18 Basketball Games: Consideration of Overtime Periods.

The purpose of this study was to identify the external demands during official under-18 basketball matches that included four quarters (Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4) and/or overtime (OT) periods. Variables included: 1) distance covered and distance covered within four intensity zones (standing-walking S-W, jogging JOG, running RUN, and high-speed running HSR); 2) explosive efforts per minute (EEs); 3) PlayerLoad (PL); 4) the number of jumps per minute; 5) the number of accelerations above 2 m·s2 (ACCs); and 6) the number of decelerations above -2 m·s2 per minute (DECs). The values for total distance, JOG, RUN, HSR, PL, ACC, and DEC were significantly smaller during periods Q2, Q3, Q4, and OT compared to Q1. In addition, the number of EEs during Q1 was significantly greater than during Q3, Q4, and OT. When comparing OT periods to Q2, there were significantly smaller values for total distance, RUN, and PL. Similarly, when comparing OT periods to Q3, significantly smaller values were found for PL. Furthermore, when comparing OT periods to Q4, significantly smaller values were achieved for total distance and PL. These findings indicate that players experienced a decrease in external physical demands as the match progressed to an OT period. This decrease may be indicative of player fatigue and/or strategic changes that should be considered by practitioners in the preparation and management of players for overall team success in junior basketball competitions.

Quantifying the training demands of a highly trained male youth basketball players by year, term and position

ABSTRACT This study describes the training demands of highly trained male youth basketball players, based on training year, term and playing position. Data was collected from 41 male youth basketballers over two seasons from all on-court coach-led training sessions utilising an LPS. Linear mixed-models and pairwise comparisons were used to analyse by training year (Y1, Y2 and Y3), term (T1, T2, T3 and T4) and playing position (Backcourt, Frontcourt). Results showed no differences in external load metrics between training years. Significant differences existed between training terms, with total distance greater in both T3 and T4 than T1 and 2 (p < 0.03). Total PlayerLoad was significantly greater in T4 than T1 (p < 0.001) and T3 (p = 0.004). Distance/min was greater in T2, T3 and T4 than T1 (p < 0.01). PlayerLoad/min was higher in T4 than T1 and T2 (p < 0.01). Backcourt players showed significantly greater distance/min (p = 0.011), PlayerLoad/min (p = 0.011) and deceleration counts (p < 0.001). Overall, limited year-on-year change existed in external training load metrics (p > 0.05), though volume (p < 0.001) and intensity (p < 0.001) differed between terms. Backcourt players completed higher intensities (p = 0.011) than Frontcourt players. This study provides a description of external loads of training in highly trained youth basketball players assisting coaches and performance practitioners to better understand physical demands within youth basketball development pathways.

Position-Specific Movement Characteristics and Heart Rate Profile of Hearing-Impaired Futsal Players: A Simulated Game Analysis

The aim of this study is to compare the movement characteristics and heart rate (HR) response of hearing-impaired futsal players based on their playing positions during a simulated game. The study involved twelve players from the Turkish Deaf Men's Futsal National Team, and PlayerLoad (PL) metrics such as total PL (PLTOTAL), PL per minute (PL·min⁻¹), peak PL (PLPEAK), low to very high PL bands (PLLOW-PLVHIGH), and external load variables such as acceleration (ACC), deceleration (DEC), explosive efforts (EXPEFF), and right/left change of direction (COD-R, COD-L), were analyzed using inertial movement analysis (IMA). Additionally, the internal load metrics, including minimum, average, and maximum HR (HRMIN, HRAVE, HRMAX), percentage of HRMAX (%HRMAX) and percentage of time spent in different HR zones (HRZONE1 to HRZONE4) were continuously monitored. IMA variables and HR metrics, based on playing position, were analysed with the Kruskal-Wallis H test. Group comparisons were conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test, and Bonferroni correction was applied. As a result, PL variables change with notable distinctions between defenders and wingers. Additionally, the PLVHIGH stands out as the only significant difference when comparing wingers and pivots. Wingers generally exhibit different external load, including ACC and COD-L, compared to defenders. Additionally, differences were observed in COD-L between pivots and defenders, as well as in COD-R between pivots and wingers. In conclusion, external and internal load metrics during the simulated game vary depending on the players’ positions in hearing-impaired futsal players, highlighting the importance for coaches to consider this diversity in their athlete monitoring approaches.

Exercise intensity and reliability during recreational team handball training for 50-77-year-old unexperienced women.

This study analyzed the physiological and physical demands of recreational team handball (RTH) and the training sessions' (matches) intensity variability in 50-77-year-old postmenopausal women (n = 20) without prior experience with the sport. Heart rate (HR), blood lactate, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), distance covered, time spent in different locomotor categories, accelerations, decelerations, Player Load (PL), game actions and fun levels were evaluated in 245 matches, played indoor (n = 130) or outdoor (n = 115), as small-sided games (3 × 15-min periods). Mean and peak HRs were 79 and 88% of maximal HR (%HRmax), showing reliable values across the training sessions, with time spent in the HR zones showing excellent relative reliability, though poor absolute reliability. Time spent > 80 and > 90%HRmax was 48% and 14% of total match time, respectively. Mean and peak blood lactate values were 2.6 ± 0.8 and 2.9 ± 0.9 mmol · l-1, respectively. RPE was 5.5 ± 1.5, showing good relative though poor absolute reliability, and fun levels were 8.4 ± 1.1 (0-10 scale). Total distance covered was 1878 ± 333 m and the participants spent 54%, 3% and < 1% of total match time walking, fast running and sprinting, respectively. Total PL was 224 ± 41 (AU), with 67% of total match time being spent in low-intensity zones. Participants performed a total of 38 specific high-demanding actions per match, mainly throws (10.6 ± 5.8) and stops (11.0 ± 3.6). RTH training, played as small-sided games, is a high-intensity exercise training mode with high aerobic and anaerobic demands, low RPE and high fun levels for 50-77-year-old women without prior experience with the sport. Average cardiovascular demands were consistent across the training sessions.

External Load Fluctuations Across an Amateur Athletic Union Basketball Season.

Kutson, CW, Russell, JL, Strack, D, Coutts, AJ, and McLean, BD. External load fluctuations across an Amateur Athletic Union basketball season. J Strength Cond Res 38(3): 592-598, 2024-Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) competitions are an important component of the developmental pathway for youth basketball athletes. Despite its relative importance, there is currently a paucity of research investigating the physical demands in AAU basketball. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the physical demands encountered over the course of an AAU basketball season. External training load was quantified using inertial sensors (Catapult T6) from one male AAU basketball team (age: 17.5 ± 0.5 years, height: 197.3 ± 10.0 cm, and mass: 89.4 ± 11.6 kg) over the course of the 2021 AAU season and categorized post hoc into high-, medium-, and low-minute groups based on mean playing minutes. After player categorization, 2 linear mixed models were constructed, one for PlayerLoad (PL) and one for duration, to examine the differences across player category, month of the season, and activity types (practices or games). The results show that the highest training loads were encountered by high-minute players, who had total PLs of 9,766 ± 1,516 AU, 13,207 ± 2,561 AU, and 7,071 ± 2,122 AU during April, May, and June, respectively. Highly variable training loads were also evident over the course of a season, with peak PL values as high as 4,921 AU per week. Practitioners should be aware that AAU basketball players experience variable loads throughout the season, which peak around congested competition/tournament periods. In addition, players with high game minutes accumulate the most load over the course of a season. This information may be used to better inform planning and periodizing strategies during developmental phases.

Training Volume and High-Speed Loads Vary Within Microcycle in Elite North American Soccer Players.

Ishida, A, Draper, G, Wright, M, Emerson, J, and Stone, MH. Training volume and high-speed loads vary within microcycle in elite North American soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 37(11): 2229-2234, 2023-The purposes of this study were to reduce dimensionality of external training load variables and examine how the selected variables varied within microcycle in elite North American soccer players. Data were collected from 18 players during 2018-2020 in-seasons. Microcycle was categorized as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days before match day (MD-1, MD-2, MD-3, MD-4, and MD-5, respectively). Training load variables included total distance, average speed, maximum velocity, high-speed running distance (HSR), average HSR, HSR efforts, average HSR efforts, sprint distance, average sprint distance, sprint efforts, average sprint efforts, total PlayerLoad, and average PlayerLoad. The first principal component (PC) can explain 66.0% of the variances and be represented by "high-speed load" (e.g., HSR and sprint-related variables) with the second PC relating to "volume" (e.g., total distance and PlayerLoad) accounting for 17.9% of the variance. Average sprint distance and total distance were selected for further analysis. Average sprint distance was significantly higher at MD-3 than at MD-2 (p = 0.01, mean difference = 0.36 m•minute-1, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] = 0.07-0.65 m•minute-1) and MD-4 (p = 0.012, mean difference = 0.26 m•minute-1, 95% CIs = 0.10-0.41 m•minute-1). Total distance was significantly higher at MD-3 than at MD-1 (p < 0.001, mean difference = 1,465 m, 95% CIs = 1,003-1926 m), and MD-2 (p < 0.001, mean difference = 941 m, 95% CIs = 523-1,360 m). Principal component analysis may simplify reporting process of external training loads. Practitioners may need to choose "volume" and "high-speed load" variables. Elite North American Soccer players may accumulate higher average sprint distance at MD-3 than at other training days.

Interpreting match performance in elite futsal: considerations for normalizing variables using effective time.

This study aimed to investigate the physical and individual technical-tactical performance of elite futsal players. Thirteen National Team futsal players (27.4 ± 4.7 years, 70.3 ± 7.6 kg, 176.3 ± 5.5 cm) competed in 15 official matches in three distinct competitions. Session rate of perceived exertion (sRPE) and player load (PL) were measured for assessing physical internal and external load, respectively. Individual tactical actions were analyzed using Instat Scout®, considering variables such as fouls, shots, shots on target, goals, successful dribbles, passes, successful passes, ball losses, ball recoveries, and challenges won. The cluster analysis classified the players into two groups: "high-involvement" (HIGH) and "low-involvement" (LOW), based on their average effective playing time, sRPE, and PL. A linear mixed model was used to examine the differences in external and internal load and technical-tactical variables between the two groups, accounting for individual repeated measures. Considering absolute values, HIGH players presented higher sRPE, RPE, total PL, shots, goals, passes, successful passes, ball losses and recoveries, and challenges won (p = 0.001-0.039; ES = 0.43-2.48), when compared to their LOW counterparts. However, when analyzed relative to effective time, LOW players reached higher total PL and shots per minute (p = 0.001-0.012; ES = 0.39-0.93) when compared to HIGH players. Non-significant differences were found for the rest of the variables. In summary, these results emphasize the importance of normalizing internal and external load variables and technical-tactical performance variables per effective playing time in futsal. The current findings indicate that players with lower involvement can present the same or even higher physical and technical-tactical performance compared to teammates with more playing time.

Determining Stroke and Movement Profiles in Competitive Tennis Match-Play From Wearable Sensor Accelerometry.

Perri, T, Reid, M, Murphy, A, Howle, K, and Duffield, R. Determining stroke and movement profiles in competitive tennis match-play from wearable sensor accelerometry. J Strength Cond Res 37(6): 1271-1276, 2023-This study determined stroke and movement accelerometry metrics from a wearable sensor and compared between court surface (grass vs. hard) and match outcome (win vs. loss) during competitive tennis match-play. Eight junior high-performance tennis players wore a trunk-mounted global positioning system, with in-built accelerometer, magnetometer, and gyroscope during singles matches on hard and grass courts. The manufacturer software calculated accelerometer-derived total player load (tPL). A prototype algorithm classified forehands, backhands, serves, and "other" strokes, thereby calculating stroke PL (sPL) from individual strokes. Movement PL (mPL) was calculated as the difference between tPL and sPL, with all metrics reported as absolute and relative (min -1 , %, and ·stroke). Analysis of accelerometer load and stroke count metrics was performed through a two-way (surface [grass vs. hard] × match outcome [win vs. loss]) analysis of variance ( p < 0.05) and effect sizes (Cohen's d ). No interaction effects for surface and match outcome existed for absolute tPL, mPL, and sPL ( p > 0.05). Increased mPL% featured on grass courts, whereas sPL% was increased on hard courts ( p = 0.04, d = 1.18[0.31-2.02]). Elevated sPL·min -1 existed on hard courts ( p = 0.04, d = 1.19[0.32-2.04]), but no differences in tPL·min -1 and mPL·min -1 were evident for surface or outcome ( p > 0.05). Relative forehand sPL (FH-sPL·min -1 ) was higher on hard courts ( p = 0.03, d = 1.18[0.31-2.02]) alongside higher forehand counts ( p = 0.01, d = 1.29[0.40-2.14]). Hitting demands are heightened on hard courts from increased sPL and counts. Conversely, increased mPL% on grass courts likely reflects the specific movement demands from point-play. Physical preparation strategies during training blocks can be tailored toward movement or hitting loads to suit competitive surfaces.

Athlete External Loads Across a Collegiate Men's Lacrosse Season.

Fields, JB, Jones, MT, Feit, MK, and Jagim, AR. Athlete external loads across a collegiate men's lacrosse season. J Strength Cond Res 37(8): e455-e461, 2023-Tracking and quantifying athlete workload may provide insight into best practice periodization strategies and workload management. Limited information exists detailing the external demands associated with collegiate men's lacrosse. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate and compare practice, game, and positional differences across a lacrosse season. Male collegiate lacrosse athletes ( n = 17; body mass: 79.9 kg ± 9.7 kg; body fat %: 14.7 ± 3.8%) wore a global positional system device during practices ( n = 66) and games ( n = 19). External load metrics were total distance (TD), sprint distance (SD), accelerations (>3 m·s -2 ), sprint efforts, player load (PL), PL/min, and top speed. Multiple analysis of variances assessed differences in external loads across session (practice versus game) and sport position (attackers, midfielders, and defenders). A 3 × 4 analysis of variance was used to determine a position-by-time (first quarter [Q1], second quarter [Q2], third quarter [Q3], and fourth quarter [Q4]) interaction ( p < 0.05). Total distance ( p < 0.001, η2 : 0.047), SD ( p < 0.001, η2 : 0.093), sprint efforts ( p < 0.001, η2 : 0.077), PL ( p < 0.001, η2 : 0.022), and top speeds ( p < 0.001, η2 : 0.086) were all higher in games compared with practices. Attackers and defenders covered more TD ( p < 0.001, η2 = 0.0257), accelerations ( p < 0.001, η2 = 0.126), PL ( p < 0.001, η2 = 0.233), and PL/min ( p < 0.001, η2 = 0.193) than midfielders. Attackers and midfielders covered more SD ( p = 0.002 η2 = 0.043), sprint efforts ( p < 0.001, η2 = 0.053), and achieved higher top speed ( p < 0.001, η2 = 0.0063) than defenders. Volume and intensity metrics declined by Q4 in attackers and defenders ( p < 0.05), whereas external load measures did not differ across quarters for midfielders. Monitoring in-game external loads can assist coaches with individualizing training programs and preparing athletes for game demands.

Differentiating Stroke and Movement Accelerometer Profiles to Improve Prescription of Tennis Training Drills.

Perri, T, Reid, M, Murphy, A, Howle, K, and Duffield, R. Differentiating stroke and movement accelerometer profiles to improve prescription of tennis training drills. J Strength Cond Res 37(3): 646-651, 2023-This study compared the movement- and stroke-related accelerometer profiles and stroke counts between common on-court tennis training drills. Ten, junior-elite, male tennis players wore a cervical-mounted global positioning systems, with in-built accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer during hard court training sessions ( n = 189). Individual training drills were classified into 8 categories based on previous research descriptions. Manufacturer software calculated total player load (tPL), while a prototype algorithm detected forehand (FH), backhands (BH), and serves and then calculated a stroke player load (sPL) from individual strokes. Movement player load (mPL) was calculated as the difference between tPL and sPL. Drill categories were compared for relative ( . min -1 ) tPL, sPL, mPL, and stroke counts via a 1-way analysis of variance with effect sizes (Cohen's d ) and 95% confidence intervals. Highest tPL . min -1 existed in accuracy and recovery or defensive drills ( p < 0.05), with lowest tPL·min -1 values observed in match-play simulation ( p < 0.05). For sPL·min -1 , accuracy drills elicited greater values compared with all other drill types ( p < 0.05), partly via greater FH-sPL·min -1 ( p < 0.05), with lowest sPL·min -1 existing for match-play ( p < 0.05). Accuracy, open, and recovery or defensive drills result in greater BH-sPL·min -1 and BH . min -1 ( p < 0.05). Serve-sPL·min -1 is highest in technical and match-play drills ( p < 0.05). Higher mPL·min -1 existed in accuracy, recovery or defensive, 2v1 net, open, and 2v1 baseline ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, mPL·min -1 in points drills was greater than technical and match-play simulation drills ( p < 0.05). Higher hitting-based accelerometer loads (sPL·min -1 ) exist in accuracy drills, whereas technical and match-play drills show the lowest movement demands (mPL·min -1 ). These findings can aid individual drill prescription for targeting movement or hitting load.

External Load of Flamenco Zap-3 Footwork Test: Use of PlayerLoad Concept with Triaxial Accelerometry.

The intense footwork required in flamenco dance may result in pain and injury. This study aimed to quantify the external load of the flamenco Zapateado-3 (Zap-3) footwork via triaxial accelerometry in the form of PlayerLoad (PL), comparing the difference in external loads at the fifth lumbar vertebra (L5), the seventh cervical vertebra (C7) and the dominant ankle (DA), and to explore whether the speed, position, axis and proficiency level of the flamenco dancer affected the external load. Twelve flamenco dancers, divided into professional and amateur groups, completed a 15-s Zap-3 footwork routine at different speeds. Triaxial accelerometry sensors were positioned at the DA, L5 and C7 and were utilized to calculate the total PlayerLoad (PLTOTAL), uniaxial PlayerLoad (PLUNI) and uniaxial contributions (PL%). For both PLTOTAL and PLUNI, this study identified significant effects of speed and position (p < 0.001), as well as the interaction between speed and position (p ≤ 0.001), and at the DA, values were significantly higher (p < 0.001) than those at C7 and L5. Significant single axis and group effects (p < 0.001) and effects of the interactions between the position and a single axis and the group and speed (p ≤ 0.001) were also identified for PLUNI. Medial-lateral PL% represented a larger contribution compared with anterior-posterior PL% and vertical PL% (p < 0.001). A significant interaction effect of position and PL% (p < 0.001) also existed. In conclusion, the Zap-3 footwork produced a significant external load at different positions, and it was affected by speed, axis and the proficiency level of the flamenco dancer. Although the ankle bears the most external load when dancing the flamenco, some external load caused by significant vibrations is also borne by the lumbar and cervical vertebrae.

Investigation of the convergent validity and reliability of unit position differences of Catapult S5 GPS units in field conditions

This research aimed to examine the validity and reliability of GPS units located in different positions. Nine recreational soccer players (age: 23.18 ± 2.21 years; height: 176 ± 7.65 cm; and body mass: 71.13 ± 4.67 kg) participated voluntarily in the current study. Athletes were tested through the team sports simulation cycle (TSSC) protocol. This protocol consisted of a total of 1200 m. Each lap consisted of a distance of 150 m, and the athletes were asked to perform eight laps. Two GPS units (OptimEye S5; Catapult Innovations, Scoresby, Victoria) were used for each athlete during the TSSC protocol. The first unit was positioned in the scapula location, and the other GPS unit was positioned in the center of mass (COM) location, and simultaneous data were recorded. A paired-samples t-test was used to determine the difference between the meter values measured in the field and the devices. The main finding of this research was that the player load parameters, which are derived from the accelerometer in GPS units, changes with the player’s position (total player load scapula − total player Load COM p≤ 0.001, Cohen’ d−2.449). There was no statistical difference between the other parameters (total distance covered, max velocity, deceleration max and acceleration max) examined in the study. CV% and SWC values showing the reliability of total distance covered scapula (CV% = 1.41; SWC = 0.28), total distance covered COM (CV% = 3.64; SWC = 0.73), total player load scapula (CV% = 2.29; SWC = 0.46), total player load COM (CV% = 1.83; SWC = 0.37), deceleration max scapula (CV% = 3.51; SWC = 0.70), deceleration max COM (CV% = 2.78; SWC = 0.56), Acceleration max scapula (CV% = 3.85; SWC = 0.77), and acceleration max COM (CV% = 2.74; SWC = 0.55) were within acceptable limits (CV% 5). The reliability of GPS units in different locations was investigated by CV% SWC analysis. It was found that all values in the scapula and COM locations were measured validly and reliably, but the total player load measurements were statistically different in the scapula and COM.

External match load and the influence of contextual factors in elite futsal.

Quantifying external load during futsal competition can provide objective data for the management of the athlete’s performance and late-stage rehabilitation. This study aimed to report the match external load collected via wearable technology according to time periods (i.e., halves) and contextual factors (i.e., team’s ranking, match result, and location) in elite futsal. Nine professional male players used a GPS-accelerometer unit during all games of the 2019–2020 season. Player load (PL), PL·min-1, high-intensity acceleration (ACCHI), deceleration (DECHI), explosive movements (EXPL-MOV), and change of direction (CODHI) data were collected. On average, players displayed values of: total PL 3868 ± 594 a.u; PL·min-1: 10.8 ± 0.8 a.u; number of ACCHI: 73.3 ± 13.8, DECHI: 68.6 ± 18.8, EXPL-MOV: 1165 ± 188 and CODHI: 173 ± 29.1. A moderate and significant decrease was found in the 2nd half for total PL (p = 0.03; ES = 0.52), PL·min-1 (p = 0.001; ES = 1.16), DECHI (p = 0.001; ES = 0.83), and EXPL-MOV (p = 0.017; ES = 0.58) compared to the 1st half. Small and nonsignificant differences were found between contextual factors. In summary, this study indicates that futsal players are exposed to high-intensity mechanical external loads, and perform a great number of ACCHI, DECHI, EXPL-MOV and CODHI, without being influenced by the team ranking, result and match location. Coaches and sports scientists are advised to implement speed-power, DEC, and COD activities in the training sessions, and may use these reference values to design specific training and return-to-play plans.

Physiological and physical effects associated with task constraints, pitch size, and floater player participation in U-12 1 × 1 soccer small-sided games

PurposeThe study aim was to analyse 1 × 1 small-sided games (SSGs) with and without floating players, in different pitch sizes.MethodsTen U-12 soccer players were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 (&lt;i&gt;n&lt;/i&gt; = 4) performed 1 × 1 SSG and group 2 (&lt;i&gt;n &lt;/i&gt;= 6) performed 1 × 1 + 1 SSG. Field sizes of 5 × 10 m (SSG1), 10 × 15 m (SSG2), and 15 × 20 m (SSG3) were used, all with small goals. The studied variables were heart rate (HR), total distance, explosive distance (&gt; 12 km/h), accelerations, decelerations, maximum sprint, player load (PL) intensity and volume. The data were collected through WIMU PROTM and analysed with IBM SPSS Statistics. Descriptive analyses and comparisons between the effects of internal and external PL and SSG were performed with the Mann-Whitney &lt;i&gt;U&lt;/i&gt; test.ResultsIncreasing the pitch size in 1 × 1 and 1 × 1 + 1 SSGs led to raised total distance, maximum sprint, and PL. In 1 × 1 and 1 × 1 + 1 SSGs, the time practice was predominantly associated with HR&lt;sub&gt;max&lt;/sub&gt; intervals above 90%. Statistically significant differences were observed between 1 × 1 and 1 × 1 + 1 SSGs in explosive distance (SSG2: 46.40 ± 5.07 / 28.99 ± 4.93, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.02, ES(r) = 0.82), PL intensity (SSG2: 2.03 ± 0.11 / 1.78 ± 0.12, p = 0.02, ES(r) = 0.82), HR&lt;sub&gt;max&lt;/sub&gt; (SSG1: 189.50 ± 1.91 / 199.50 ± 2.38, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.01, ES(r) = 0.82), and HR&lt;sub&gt;mean&lt;/sub&gt; (SSG1: 174.50 ± 3.31 / 181.75 ± 2.21, &lt;i&gt;p&lt;/i&gt; = 0.01, ES(r) = 0.82). Floating players’ physical and physiological demands were lower compared with the other athletes.ConclusionsThe pitch size influences the physiological and physical response of young soccer players in SSGs. The demand of 1 × 1 SSG is higher compared with 1 × 1 + 1. Floating player participation could result in a fruitful strategy to adjust the training intensity of specific soccer players.

Quantifying jumps and external load in netball using VERT inertial measurement units

ABSTRACT This study assesses the relationship between an inexpensive and an established inertial measurement device for the measurement of movement and jumps in netball. Twenty-five female netballers participated in this study (11 elite and 14 sub-elite). Two inertial measurement devices (Catapult ClearSky T6 and VERT Classic) were worn simultaneously during a training session. The ‘Kinetic Energy’ output provided by the VERT device was compared to the total PlayerLoad collected by the ClearSky T6 device. Automated total jump counts were also compared across devices. A correlation of r = 0.76 (95% confidence interval [CI]; 0.52 to 0.89) was identified between total PlayerLoad and ‘Kinetic Energy’. Similarly, a correlation of r = 0.81 (95% CI; 0.61 to 0.91) was identified for the relationship between ClearSky T6 jump count and VERT jump count. Mean bias of 1.7 jumps (95% CI; −2.5 to 5.8) with 95% limits of agreement (−17.9 to 21.3) were found when comparing the jump counts between the ClearSky T6 and VERT devices. The correlations found in this study indicate that the VERT devices may be an accessible alternative for sub-elite athletes; however, the wide confidence intervals and limits of agreement warrant caution.

Physiological and Perceptual Recovery-Stress Responses to an Elite Netball Tournament.

To investigate and explore the relationships between physiological and perceptual recovery and stress responses to elite netball tournament workloads. Nine elite female netballers were observed across a 3-day (T1-3), 4-match tournament. Participants provided salivary samples for cortisol and alpha-amylase analysis, completed the Short Recovery Stress Scale (SRSS), and reported session ratings of perceived exertion. Inertial measurement units and heart-rate monitors determined player load, changes of direction (COD), summated heart-rate zones, and jumps. Analysis revealed 6 significant SRSS time effects: (1)decreased recovery markers of physical performance (P = .042), emotional balance (P = .034), and overall recovery (P = .001) and (2)increased perceptual stress markers of muscular stress (P = .001), negative emotional state (P = .026), and overall stress (P = .010). Salivary cortisol decreased over the tournament (T1-3) before progressively increasing posttournament with greater salivary samples for cortisol on T+2 compared with T3 (P = .014, ES = -1.29; -2.24 to -0.22]) and T+1 (P = .031, ES = -1.54; -2.51 to -0.42). SRSS overall recovery moderately negatively correlated with COD (r = -.41, P = .028) and session ratings of perceived exertion (r = -.40, P = .034). Cumulative workload did not relate to posttournament perceptual or salivary responses. Percentage change in salivary variables related (P < .05) to total player load, total COD, and overall recovery across specific cumulative time periods. During and after an elite netball tournament, athletes indicated increased perceptual stress and lack of recovery. The SRSS is a valuable tool for recovery-stress monitoring in elite tournament netball. It is recommended that practitioners monitor COD due to its negative influence on perceived overall recovery.

Acute Effects of Match-Play on Neuromuscular and Subjective Recovery and Stress State in Division I Collegiate Female Soccer Players.

Ishida, A, Bazyler, CD, Sayers, AL, Mizuguchi, S, and Gentles, JA. Acute effects of match-play on neuromuscular and subjective recovery and stress state in Division I collegiate female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 976-982, 2021-The purpose of this study was to investigate acute effects of match-play on neuromuscular performance and subjective recovery and stress state and the relationship between training load (TL) and changes in neuromuscular performance in female soccer players. Twelve National Collegiate Athlete Association Division I players participated (20.7 ± 2.3 years; 64.4 ± 7.2 kg; 164.5 ± 6.0 cm) and completed countermovement jump (CMJ) at 0 kg (CMJ0) and 20 kg (CMJ20) and the Short Recovery Stress Scale (SRSS) at 3 hours pre-match (Pre), 12 hours post-match (Post12), and 38 hours post-match (Post38). Countermovement jump variables included body mass, jump height (JH), modified reactive strength index (RSI), peak force (PF), relative PF, eccentric impulse, concentric impulse (CI), peak power (PP), relative PP (RPP), eccentric average PP, and concentric average power (CAP). The SRSS consists of 4 Stress Scales (SSs) and 4 Recovery Scales (RSs). Training loads included total distance, total PlayerLoad, high-speed running, and session ratings of perceived exertion. Significant moderate to large decreases were observed from Pre to Post12 in JH, RSI, CI, PP, RPP, and CAP in CMJ0 and CMJ20 (p < 0.05, effect size [ES] = 0.63-1.35). Significant changes were observed from Pre to Post12 in all RSs (p < 0.05, ES = 0.65-0.79) and 3 SSs (p < 0.05, ES = 0.71-0.77). Significant correlations were observed between CMJ20 PP from Pre to Post12 and all TLs (p < 0.05, r = -0.58 to -0.68). CMJ0 and CMJ20 JH and PP may indicate acute neuromuscular changes after match-play. The magnitude of CMJ20 PP decrements from Pre to Post12 may be affected by soccer match-play volumes.

Athlete Workloads During Collegiate Women's Soccer Practice: Implications for Return to Play

Athlete monitoring via wearable technology is often used in soccer athletes. Although researchers have tracked global outcomes across soccer seasons, little information exists on athlete loads during individual practice drills. Understanding these demands is important for athletic trainers in making decisions about return to play. To provide descriptive information on total distance, total player load (PL), total distance per minute, and PL per minute for practice drill structures and game play by player position among female soccer athletes across a competitive season. Retrospective observational study. National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I university. A total of 32 female collegiate soccer players (age = 20 ± 1 years, height = 168.75 ± 4.28 cm). Athletes wore a single global positioning system and triaxial accelerometer unit during all practices and games in a single soccer season. Individual practice drills were labeled by the team's strength and conditioning coach and binned into physical, technical and tactical skills and large- and small-sided competition drill structures. Descriptive analyses were used to assess the median total distance, total PL, total distance per minute, and PL per minute by drill structure and player position (defender, forward or striker, and midfielder) during practices and games. Large- and small-sided competition drills imposed the greatest percentage of workload across all measures for each position (approximately 20% of total practice), followed by physical drills. When comparing technical and tactical skills drills, we found that technical skills drills required athletes to cover a greater distance (approximately 17% for technical skills and 15% for tactical skills), and tactical skills drills required higher play intensity during practices across all positions (approximately 18% for technical skills and 13% for tactical skills). Defenders had the highest median PL outcomes of all positions during practices. Different practice drill types imposed various levels of demands, which simulated game play, on female soccer athletes. Athletic trainers and other clinicians may use this information in formulating objective return-to-play guidelines for injured collegiate women's soccer players.

Match loads of university rugby union players between the 2016 and 2018 Varsity Cup competitions.

Rugby union is a popular and continuously growing sport globally. With the advance of technology, practices have been implemented to quantify the match running demands of rugby union players. The aim of this study was to analyse the match loads of rugby union players between the 2016 and 2018 Varsity Cup competitions. The sample consisted of 562 match observations of male university rugby union players competing in the Varsity Cup tournaments. The backline players ran significantly longer total distances (5105 m; p = 0.001; ES = 0.49); have greater high-speed running (496 m; p = 0.001; ES = 1.03), very high-speed running (260 m; p = 0.001; ES = 1.50) and sprint distances (117 m; p = 0.001; ES = 1.32) than forward players. Backline players also accumulated a high number of metres per minute (238 ± 94; p = 0.001; ES = 0.46), total Player Load (488 ± 203; p = 0.001; ES = 0.31), RHIE (9 ± 8; p = 0.001; ES = 0.75) and number of accelerations (4 ± 5; p = 0.001; ES = 0.49). These findings may assist coaches to develop player position specific training programmes to meet the physical demands of rugby.

The Influence of Playing Surface on the Loading Response to Soccer-Specific Activity.

The influence of playing surface on injury risk in soccer is contentious, and contemporary technologies permit an in vivo assessment of mechanical loading on the player. To quantify the influence of playing surface on the PlayerLoad elicited during soccer-specific activity. Repeated measures, field-based design. Regulation soccer pitches. Fifteen amateur soccer players (22.1 [2.4]y), injury free with ≥6 years competitive experience. Each player completed randomized order trials of a soccer-specific field test on natural turf, astroturf, and third-generation artificial turf. GPS units were located at C7 and the mid-tibia of each leg to measure triaxial acceleration (100Hz). Total accumulated PlayerLoad in each movement plane was calculated for each trial. Ratings of perceived exertion and visual analog scales assessing lower-limb muscle soreness were measured as markers of fatigue. Analysis of variance revealed no significant main effect for playing surface on total PlayerLoad (P = .55), distance covered (P = .75), or postexercise measures of ratings of perceived exertion (P = .98) and visual analog scales (P = .61). There was a significant main effect for GPS location (P < .001), with lower total loading elicited at C7 than mid-tibia (P < .001), but with no difference between limbs (P = .70). There was no unit placement × surface interaction (P = .98). There was also a significant main effect for GPS location on the relative planar contributions to loading (P < .001). Relative planar contributions to loading in the anterioposterior:mediolateral:vertical planes was 25:27:48 at C7 and 34:32:34 at mid-tibia. PlayerLoad metrics suggest that playing surface does not influence mechanical loading during soccer-specific activity (not including tackling). Clinical reasoning should consider that PlayerLoad magnitude and axial contributions were sensitive to unit placement, highlighting opportunities in the objective monitoring of load during rehabilitation.