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Beato M, Youngs A, Costin AJ. The Analysis of Physical Performance During Official Competitions in Professional English Football: Do Positions, Game Locations, and Results Influence Players' Game Demands? J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:e226-e234. [PMID: 38231139 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Beato, M, Youngs, A, and Costin, AJ. The analysis of physical performance during official competitions in professional English football: Do positions, game locations, and results influence players' game demands? J Strength Cond Res 38(5): e226-e234, 2024-This study aimed, first, to verify if physical parameters were different between players' positions during official matches in English professional football, and second, if the game location (H and A) or results (W, L, D) affected players' physical performance. Twenty-five male professional football players of the same team were included in this data analysis (age = 27 ± 9 years) during the 2022-23 season. Players were divided into positions: center backs, wide backs, center midfielders, attacking midfielders, and strikers. The external load parameters were distance covered, high-speed running (HSR), sprinting distance, accelerations, decelerations, and high metabolic load distance (HMLD, meters > 25.5 w·kg -1 ) that were monitored using global navigation satellite systems Apex (STATSports). Linear mixed models' analysis for positions reported a significant difference in total distance ( p = 0.011), HSR ( p < 0.001), sprinting distance ( p < 0.001), accelerations ( p = 0.003), decelerations ( p = 0.002), and HMLD ( p < 0.001). Centre backs showed the lowest physical performance in the metrics analyzed, whereas players in the other positions frequently displayed a similar physical performance. Regarding locations and results, differences were only found between locations for decelerations ( p = 0.041) and between results for HMLD ( p = 0.010). In conclusion, physical performance was influenced by players' positions, whereas game location or results seem to not affect physical performance during official competitions. Consequently, practitioners can physically prepare their players independently from the location of the match or of the possible game results, whereas specific positional training is requested to optimally prepare their players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom; and
| | - Anna Youngs
- Department of Sport Science, Ipswich Town FC, Ipswich, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Costin
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom; and
- Department of Sport Science, Ipswich Town FC, Ipswich, United Kingdom
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2
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Oliver JL, Ramachandran AK, Singh U, Ramirez-Campillo R, Lloyd RS. The Effects of Strength, Plyometric and Combined Training on Strength, Power and Speed Characteristics in High-Level, Highly Trained Male Youth Soccer Players: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Sports Med 2024; 54:623-643. [PMID: 37897637 PMCID: PMC10978689 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01944-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male youth soccer players competing at a high level will typically engage in large volumes of soccer training from a young age. However, it is not known whether the high levels of habitual training that these high-performing players are exposed to limit their ability to respond to strength, plyometric or combined training interventions. OBJECTIVE The primary aim of our systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the specific effects of strength, plyometric and combined training with active controls (standard soccer training) on the strength, power and speed characteristics of high-level, highly trained young male soccer players. METHODS We performed a literature search across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus to identify controlled studies that implemented strength, plyometric or combined training in high-level male youth soccer players. Participants were defined as high level or highly trained based on established guidelines related to either competition level or age-related weekly hours spent in soccer training. Studies needed to report at least one outcome of lower body strength, squat jump, countermovement jump, horizontal power, acceleration (0-10 m), speed (15-40 m) or change of direction speed. A meta-analysis was then performed using a random-effects model to determine the magnitude (Hedge's g) of training responses and whether effects differed across modes of training. RESULTS From an initial return of 5464 papers, n = 34 studies met the inclusion criteria and provided a total sample of n = 1396 high-level male youth soccer players. Strength, plyometric and combined training resulted in improvements in strength, squat and countermovement jump, horizontal power, acceleration, change of direction speed (all p < 0.05; g = 0.73-1.08, moderate) and speed (p < 0.05; g = 0.40-0.59, small). Lower body strength was the only outcome where training mode had a significant effect (p < 0.05), with plyometric training producing small effects (g = 0.27, p < 0.05) compared with moderate effects for strength (g = 1.07, p < 0.05) and combined (g = 0.75, p < 0.05) training. Prediction intervals for overall effects (all training modes combined) showed that the greatest confidence that future training will lead to positive effects was in the squat and countermovement jump, horizontal power and acceleration (prediction intervals = 0.03-1.81). CONCLUSIONS High-level, highly trained male youth soccer players can experience positive gains in indices of strength, power and speed from strength, plyometric and combined training, and the magnitude of gains are mostly similar across modes of training. Based on prediction intervals, there is a good level of certainty that future strength, plyometric and combined training in this population would lead to positive improvements in vertical and horizontal power and sprint acceleration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon L Oliver
- Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, CF23 6XD, UK.
- Sport Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Akhilesh Kumar Ramachandran
- Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, CF23 6XD, UK
| | - Utkarsh Singh
- Sports and Exercise Science, College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Rodrigo Ramirez-Campillo
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, School of Physical Therapy, Universidad Andres Bello, 7591538, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rhodri S Lloyd
- Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, CF23 6XD, UK
- Sport Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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3
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Beato M, Wren C, de Keijzer KL. The Interunit Reliability of Global Navigation Satellite Systems Apex (STATSports) Metrics During a Standardized Intermittent Running Activity. J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:e49-e55. [PMID: 37815238 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Beato, M, Wren, C, and de Keijzer, KL. The interunit reliability of global navigation satellite systems Apex (STATSports) metrics during a standardized intermittent running activity. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e49-e55, 2024-This study aimed to evaluate the interunit reliability of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) STATSports Apex metrics and to assess which metrics can be used by practitioners for the monitoring of short-distance intermittent running activities. Fifty-four male soccer players were enrolled (age = 20.7 ± 1.9 years, body mass = 73.2 ± 9.5 kg, and height = 1.76 ± 0.07 m) in this observational study. 10-Hz GNSS Apex (STATSports, Northern Ireland, Newry) units recorded total distance, high speed running (HSR), accelerations, decelerations, peak speed, average metabolic power, metabolic distance, dynamic stress load (DSL), relative distance, and speed intensity. The standardized intermitted running protocol used was a Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 1. This study reported that Apex interunit analysis did not show any significant difference (delta difference and 95% confidence interval [CIs]) in total distance = 2.6 (-2.6; 7.9) m, HSR = 3.2 (-0.2; 6.8) m, accelerations = 0.09 (-0.9; 1.1), decelerations = 0.3 (-0.4; 1.1), peak speed = 0.02 (-0.03; 0.07) m·s -1 , average metabolic power = 0.01 (-0.02; 0.04) W·kg -1 , metabolic distance = 0.9 (-6.2; 8.0) m, DSL = 2.8 (-5.6; 10.7) au, relative distance = 0.14 (-0.19; 0.47) m·min -1 , and speed intensity = 0.21 (-0.21; 0.64) au. All metrics presented a delta d between trivial to small. The interunit intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was good or excellent for all metrics, with the exception of DSL, which was considered questionable . In conclusion, this study reports that all the metrics analysis in this study presents a low interunit bias and high reliability (ICC), with the exception of DSL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
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Ammann L, Chmura P. Internal and external load during on-field training drills with an aim of improving the physical performance of players in professional soccer: a retrospective observational study. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1212573. [PMID: 38028802 PMCID: PMC10661947 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1212573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Extensive research has led to evidence-based methodological recommendations for appropriate prescription and implementation of different training drills to improve the physical performance of professional soccer players, while also pointing out limitations of drills. Less is known about the current methods used in an ecological context and the extent to which evidence-based considerations are applied. Knowledge of current practices might also enable to identify pitfalls in successful implementation and/or deficiencies in the communication of scientific knowledge. Thus, the aim of this study was to quantify and compare the load that players experience in an ecological context during drills that are frequently used, and in which there is an intention to improve the players' physical capacities. Therefore, a retrospective observational cohort study was conducted over a 14-month period, analyzing 9 load measures during training drills of 39 players of a team competing in the highest Swiss league. The load experienced by players was statistically significant different between the assessed drill categories for each load measure (all p < .001). This indicates different drills provide different stimuli. HIIT drills proved to be a more powerful tool of getting players to cover distances at high-speed and to spend time at an intensity ≥90% HRmax compared to sided games. The sprint distance of players was very low in all sided games and in most cases also in HIIT drills, in the latter the players also hardly performed any deceleration. In small goal-oriented sided games, players covered a greater distance per minute when outside floaters were present. Particularly regarding an improvement of the players' aerobic capacity, the present data emphasize the relevance for coaches to ensure an appropriate exposure. In general, the importance of individual load management in professional soccer is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paweł Chmura
- Department of Team Games, Wroclaw University of Health and Sport Sciences, Wrocław, Poland
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5
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Fleming A, Walker M, Armitage M, Connor M, Beato M. A Comparison of Training and Match Play External Load During a Congested In-Season Period in English League 2 Football. J Strength Cond Res 2023; 37:e527-e534. [PMID: 37184969 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Fleming, A, Walker, M, Armitage, M, Connor, M, and Beato, M. A comparison of training and match play external load during a congested in-season period in English League 2 Football. J Strength Cond Res 37(9): e527-e534, 2023-This study aimed to investigate if external training load metrics differ between training days and match day (MD) during a period of fixture congestion and to verify if external load metrics vary based on playing positions. Training and MD data were collected in a part of the competition phase of the 2020-2021 season (6 weeks) in the English Football League 2 ( N = 20 players, mean ± SD s: age = 24.4 ± 4.7 years). Global Navigation Satellite System units (Catapult S7 Vector 10 Hz) were used to monitor external load metrics. The metrics were duration of training, total distance (TD), high-speed running distance (HSR), sprinting distance, relative intensity (m/min), total accelerations (TotAcc) (>3 m·s -2 ), and total decelerations (TotDec) (<-3 m·s -2 ). This study found that duration, TD, relative intensity, HSR distance, sprint distance, TotAcc, and TotDec were different ( p < 0.001, d = small to moderate ) between MD and match day minus two (MD-2) or match day minus one (MD-1); however, during match day minus four (MD-4), only relative intensity was significantly lower ( p < 0.001) compared with MD output. Therefore, MD-4 was the most demanding training session of the week (after the MD), and during MD-2 and MD-1, coaches decreased players' load to favor players' readiness. Moreover, this study found that MD and MD-1 resulted in statistically different values across several metrics between different playing positions (defenders < midfielders and strikers), whereas metrics in MD-4 and MD-2 were not statistically different, which highlights that in these sessions, players have similar external loads independently from their playing positions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Fleming
- Sport Science Department at Cambridge United Football Club, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Walker
- Sport Science Department at Cambridge United Football Club, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Armitage
- Performance Services Department Norwich City Football Club, Norwich, United Kingdom
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom; and
| | - Mark Connor
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom; and
- Natural Computing Research and Applications Group, School of Business, University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom; and
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6
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Bianchi M, Anderson L, Brownlee TE, Bossi L, Beato M. The effect of two sessions of combined jump and sprint training per week on fitness parameters in soccer players. A randomized controlled trial. Biol Sport 2023; 40:699-706. [PMID: 37398964 PMCID: PMC10286599 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2023.119287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effect of a combined jump and sprint training program, two sessions a week for 6 weeks, on sprinting, change of directions (COD) and jumping performance in semi-professional soccer players. Twenty soccer players were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial (age 20 ± 2 years, body mass 74.3 ± 5.9 kg). Players were randomized into two groups such as training group (TG, n = 10 players) or control group (CG, n = 10 players). Physical tests were performed before and after 6 weeks of training such as sprint 10 m, sprint 30 m, 505-COD test and standing long jump (LJ). The two groups performed the same training except for the combined jump and sprint training performed twice a week by TG. After 6 weeks of training, between-group analysis reported statistical difference in favor of the TG in sprint 10 m (p = 0.015, η2 = 0.295, large), sprint 30 m (p < 0.001, η2 = 0.599, large), in 505-COD (p = 0.026, η2 = 0.154, large), and LJ (p = 0.025, η2 = 0.027, small). These data indicate that combined sprint and jump training, when performed twice a week, for the duration of 6 weeks, in addition to the regular team training, can improve specific physical performance in male soccer players. This study has shown that a volume increment of 10% after 3 weeks of training can be a suitable training dose progression and that a combination of 64-70 jumps and 675-738 m of sprinting training per session can yield benefits in sprint, COD and jump performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Bianchi
- School of Health and Sports Science, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
| | - Liam Anderson
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas E Brownlee
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Lorenzo Bossi
- School of Health and Sports Science, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Science, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
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7
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Ammann L, Altmann S. Training and match load ratios in professional soccer-should we use player- or position-specific match reference values? Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1151828. [PMID: 37260734 PMCID: PMC10227614 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1151828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Careful load management is needed to optimize the physical capacity, a key performance component, of soccer players. The training load of soccer players is often expressed as a percentage of match load. However, no study has yet evaluated how training match load ratios are affected by using either a player-specific or position-specific reference for match load. Therefore, this study aimed to compare training match load ratios of professional soccer players per day of a microcycle with match load being player-specific and position-specific, respectively. Additionally, the load that players typically experience per day of a microcycle and its variation should be analyzed. Therefore, a retrospective observational cohort study was conducted over a 14-month period, analyzing 11 external load measures during sessions of 20 players belonging to a team competing in the highest Swiss league. Within a microcycle, typical full matches presented a unique load for players, and they experienced higher training loads on days with a greater temporal distance to a match. Load variation proved to be highly associated with the day in a microcycle and the load measure. Substantial differences in typical load were evident in (i) trainings between players, (ii) matches both between players and positions, and (iii) training match load ratios when using player-specific or position-specific match references. The importance of individual load management in professional soccer was reaffirmed. When consulting training match load ratios for that purpose, one should be aware of the aim, select appropriate reference values depending on it, and interpret the ratios accurately to finally draw adequate conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Ammann
- Integrative and Experimental Exercise Science, Department of Sport Science, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Altmann
- Institute of Sports and Sports Science, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
- TSG ResearchLab gGmbH, Zuzenhausen, Germany
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8
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Dello Iacono A, Beato M, Unnithan VB, Shushan T. Programming High-Speed and Sprint Running Exposure in Football: Beliefs and Practices of More Than 100 Practitioners Worldwide. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023:1-16. [PMID: 37116894 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To gain knowledge on the beliefs and practices of football practitioners applying high-speed and sprint running exposure programming strategies. METHODS One hundred two football practitioners from 22 different countries participated in a study consisting of a survey including 5 domains: demographic and professional characteristics (Who); importance of high-speed and sprint running exposure for physical-capability development, preparation for competition, and injury-prevention strategies (Why); exposure timing (When); methodological procedures for exposure monitoring and training scheduling (What); and effectiveness of common training practices (How). Data were analyzed using a combination of descriptive statistics, generalized mixed effects, and multinomial logistic regression models. RESULTS Data revealed 5 main findings: (1) overall agreement on the importance of exposure for physical-capability development, preparation for competition, and injury-prevention strategies; (2) different exposure timing and selective training scheduling for starting and nonstarting players across typical and congested weeks; (3) lack of consensus on the conceptual constructs defining high-speed and sprint running metrics and the methodological procedures used for monitoring; (4) a probable association between match-related outcomes and exposure strategies used in training; and (5) a broad range of training methods considered effective to elicit exposure. CONCLUSIONS This study provides actionable insights into the planning, implementing, and monitoring strategies for high-speed and sprint running exposure in football. While some conform with the evidence on high-speed and sprint running training in football, further research and professional debate are warranted to develop empirical knowledge and provide pragmatic recommendations to help practitioners in adopting evidence-informed decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Dello Iacono
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Institute for Clinical Exercise and Health Science, University of the West of Scotland, Hamilton,United Kingdom
| | - Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich,United Kingdom
| | - Viswanath B Unnithan
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Institute for Clinical Exercise and Health Science, University of the West of Scotland, Hamilton,United Kingdom
| | - Tzlil Shushan
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW,Australia
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9
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Martin-Garetxana I, Ciaurri J, Gil SM, Monasterio X, Ugarte A, Lekue JA, Larruskain J. What Are the Load and Wellness of Young Second-Team Football Players When Transitioning to the First Team? A Comparison of 2 Consecutive Preseasons. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37105543 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the load and wellness of second-team academy football players during a first-team preseason with those of first-team players and those of their previous second-team preseason. METHODS Athletic Club's first- (n = 10) and second-team (n = 9) players were prospectively followed during the 2019-20 first- and second-team and 2020-21 first-team preseasons. Weekly external and internal loads and average wellness z-scores (fatigue, sleep quality, muscle soreness, stress, and mood) were compared between preseasons and teams. RESULTS While training together during the 2020-21 preseason, second-team players performed more decelerations <-3 m/s2 per week than first-team players (moderate effect size). For first-team players, there were only small differences between preseasons in external load, but session rating of perceived exertion was higher (moderate) and stress (moderate) and mood (large) z-scores were worse in 2020-21. For second-team players, more total distance (large), accelerations >3 m/s2 (large), and decelerations <-3 m/s2 (very large) were performed; total loading (moderate) and session rating of perceived exertion (moderate) were higher; and fatigue (very large) and stress (moderate) z-scores were worse during the 2020-21 first-team preseason compared to their previous second-team preseason. CONCLUSIONS Players transitioning from the second team faced higher external and internal loads, fatigue, and stress during the first-team preseason compared to the previous second-team preseason. Player development and monitoring plans appear necessary to manage the transition from the academy to the first team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imanol Martin-Garetxana
- Medical Services, Athletic Club, Lezama,Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa,Spain
| | - Jon Ciaurri
- Medical Services, Athletic Club, Lezama,Spain
| | - Susana M Gil
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa,Spain
| | - Xabier Monasterio
- Medical Services, Athletic Club, Lezama,Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa,Spain
| | | | - Jose A Lekue
- Medical Services, Athletic Club, Lezama,Spain
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Leioa,Spain
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10
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Beato M, de Keijzer KL, Costin AJ. External and internal training load comparison between sided-game drills in professional soccer. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1150461. [PMID: 37082248 PMCID: PMC10110967 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1150461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to quantify and compare the external and internal training load demands of sided-game drills in professional team players during the competitive season. Twenty-four male professional soccer players of the same club were enrolled in this study. Drills were categorized as large-sided games (LSG): 10vs10 (84 × 60 m or 72 × 60 m), Hexagon possession 9vs9 + 3 (36 × 48 m), Possession gate 8vs8 + 2 (36 × 44 m), Possession 7vs7 + 3 (30 × 32 m) or as Small-sided games (SSG): 6vs6 (48 × 42 m), and Possession 6vs4 (30 × 60 m). A total of 7 drills and 279 individual data points were included in this analysis. Distance covered, high-speed running (HSR), and sprinting distance were all calculated in meters per minute (m.min−1) while total accelerations (>3 m.s−2) and total decelerations (− < 3 m.s−2) were calculated in number of actions per minute (n.min−1). All external load was measured with global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) STATSports Apex units. Players’ internal load was quantified using their rating of perceived exertion (RPE). We found that distance covered (p < 0.01, large), HSR (p < 0.01, large), and sprinting distance (p < 0.01, large) changed between drills (e.g., greater in LSG formats), acceleration (p < 0.01, large) and deceleration (p < 0.01, large) demands were greater in smaller formats (e.g., SSG 6vs6, and Possession 6vs4), while RPE was lower in the Possession gate 8vs8 + 2 format (p < 0.01, large). This study found that sided-games can replicate and sometimes exceed some match-specific intensity parameters, however, HSR and sprinting were consistently lower compared to official matches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
- Correspondence: Marco Beato
| | - Kevin L de Keijzer
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J Costin
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
- Department of Sport Science, Ipswich Town FC, Ipswich, United Kingdom
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11
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Martins F, Marques A, França C, Sarmento H, Henriques R, Ihle A, de Maio Nascimento M, Saldanha C, Przednowek K, Gouveia ÉR. Weekly External Load Performance Effects on Sports Injuries of Male Professional Football Players. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1121. [PMID: 36673875 PMCID: PMC9859064 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
One of the most challenging issues professional football players face throughout their careers is injuries. Those injuries often result from suboptimal training programs that were not designed according to the players' individual needs. This prospective study aimed to examine in detail the effects of sports injuries on professional football players' weekly external load performances. Thirty-three male professional football players were monitored using 10-Hz Global Positioning System (GPS) units (Apex pro series, StatSports) during an entire season. The variables considered in the analysis were total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR), accelerations (ACC), and decelerations (DEC). The comparisons were made between the four-week block before injury (-4T), four-week block after return (+4T), and players' season averages (S). Players displayed significantly higher values of TD, HSR, ACC, and DEC in the -4T, compared to the other two moments (+4T and S). Furthermore, the comparison between the +4T and S showed no significant variations in the GPS metrics. It was shown that a significant increase in players' weekly external load performance over a four-week period may have a negative effect on the occurrence of injuries from a professional football standpoint. Future research should consider the effects of injury severity on players' external load variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Martins
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
- LARSYS, Interactive Technologies Institute, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
| | - Adilson Marques
- CIPER, Faculty of Human Kinetics, University of Lisbon, 1495-751 Lisbon, Portugal
- ISAMB, Faculty of Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1649-020 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cíntia França
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
- LARSYS, Interactive Technologies Institute, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences, and Human Development (CIDESD), 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Hugo Sarmento
- University of Coimbra, Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Andreas Ihle
- Department of Psychology, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
- Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES—Overcoming Vulnerability: Life Course Perspectives, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Marcelo de Maio Nascimento
- Department of Physical Education, Federal University of Vale do São Francisco, Petrolina 56304-917, Brazil
| | - Carolina Saldanha
- University of Coimbra, Research Unit for Sport and Physical Activity (CIDAF), Faculty of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Krzysztof Przednowek
- Institute of Physical Culture Sciences, Medical College, University of Rzeszów, 35-959 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Élvio Rúbio Gouveia
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Madeira, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
- LARSYS, Interactive Technologies Institute, 9020-105 Funchal, Portugal
- Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Gerontology and Vulnerability, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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12
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Beato M, Vicens-Bordas J, Peña J, Costin A. Training load comparison between small, medium, and large-sided games in professional football. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1165242. [PMID: 37213824 PMCID: PMC10196496 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1165242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess if internal and external load parameters were different between sided game formats, if players' positions influenced these parameters, and if load parameters were different among sided game types (from 2vs2 to 10vs10) in professional football players. Twenty-five male players of the same club were enrolled in this study (age = 27 ± 9 years and body mass = 78 ± 14 kg). Sided games were categorized in formats as small-sided games (SSG, n = 145), medium-sided games (MSG, n = 431), and large-sided games (LSG, n = 204). Players were divided into roles such as center backs (CB), fullbacks (FB), center midfielders (CM), attacking midfielders (AM), and strikers (ST). STATSports 10 Hz GNSS Apex units were used to monitor external load parameters such as distance, high-speed running (HSR), sprinting distance, accelerations, and decelerations. The linear mixed model analysis found differences between formats (p < 0.001) for the rate of perceived exertion (RPE), distance, HSR, sprinting, accelerations, and decelerations. Differences were found between positions for HSR (p = 0.004), sprinting (p = 0.006), and decelerations (p < 0.001). Moreover, a significant difference was found between sided game types (p < 0.001) for RPE, distance, HSR, sprinting, accelerations, and decelerations. In conclusion, some sided games formats are more suitable for specific load-specific parameters (e.g., distance per minute, HSR, and sprinting are greater during LSG). The number of accelerations and decelerations is higher in MSG compared to other formats. Finally, players' positions influenced external load metrics, specifically HSR and decelerations but not RPE and distance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Beato
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
- Correspondence: Marco Beato
| | - Jordi Vicens-Bordas
- Sport and Physical Activity Studies Centre, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
- Sport, Exercise, and Human Movement, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Peña
- Sport and Physical Activity Studies Centre, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
- Sport, Exercise, and Human Movement, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrew J. Costin
- School of Health and Sports Sciences, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
- Department of Sport Science, Ipswich Town FC, Ipswich, United Kingdom
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13
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Yuan R, Sun H, Soh KG, Mohammadi A, Toumi Z, Zhang Z. The effects of mental fatigue on sport-specific motor performance among team sport athletes: A systematic scoping review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1143618. [PMID: 37113120 PMCID: PMC10128192 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1143618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The psychobiological state known as mental fatigue (MF) is by engaging in mentally taxing activities for an extended period, which is typically found in team sports, of the high cognitive demand and unpredictable environment. It increases the perception of effort and influences executive functions, impairing sport-specific performance in athletes. However, the consequences of MF on sport-specific motor performance (SSMP) among athletes in team sports remain unclear. Objective This scoping review seeks to find and map research publications that investigate the effect of MF on SSMP in team sports. Methods Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed were searched as the main databases, and CENTRAL, Psychology, and Behavioral Sciences Collection, SPORTDicus obtained from EBSCOhost, as well as gray literature was searched for relevant literature and Google Scholar. Cognitive tasks before the SSMP exam are the focus of the selected literature on mental exhaustion. Only experiments testing mental and non-mental exhaustion were chosen. Results Twelve studies fulfill the requirement of selection criteria. SSMP in team sports, including soccer, basketball, cricket, and Australian football mainly is examined as physical and technical performance. More specifically, MF significantly influenced physical performance measured as intermittent endurance and total distance (P < 0.05), while data was inclusive when assess in an ecological setting (e.g., small-sided game) (P > 0.05). Technical performance was mainly measured as ball loss, errors in passing and shooting, interception, and successful tackle and showed a dramatic impairment (P < 0.05). The decline of physical activity is relevant with higher level PRE, while decreased technical performance is related to impaired attention resources shown as visual perceptual. Conclusion MF adversely influences SSMP in team sports. The most relevant theory for future study to examine the impacts of MF on team-sport athletes could be the psychological model of exercise and its potential extension on attention resources, rather than the traditional "catastrophe" theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Yuan
- Physical Education Department, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - He Sun
- School of Physical Education, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kim Geok Soh
- Department of Sport Studies, Faculty of Education Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Alireza Mohammadi
- Faculty of Business Management, City University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zakaria Toumi
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zhendong Zhang
- School of Physical Education, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zhendong Zhang
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