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Yildiz M, Akyildiz Z, Gunay M, Clemente FM. Relationship Between Training Load, Neuromuscular Fatigue, and Daily Well-Being in Elite Young Wrestlers. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2024; 95:303-312. [PMID: 37369136 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2023.2198575] [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: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigated acute workload (wAW), chronic workload (wCW), acute: chronic workload ratio (wACWR), training monotony (wTM), perceived load training strain indicators (wTS), and countermove- ment jump (CMJ) as indicators of wellness in one season and defined weekly variations. In addition, we analyzed the relationships between training load measurements and weekly reports. Methods: 16 elite young wrestlers were monitored daily with individual observations for 46 consecutive weeks throughout the season. Training load was obtained using the session rating of perceived effort. wSleep, wStress, wFatigue & wMuscle Soreness well-being were monitored daily using the Hooper index. Results: As a result of the analysis, it was found that there is a moderate relationship (r = 0.51, p = .003) between ACWR and w mean load (A.U.) and a high relationship (r = 0.81, p < .001) between monotony and strain. Conclusion: All variables other than ACWR, w mean load, strain, and monotony presented small and statistically insignificant relationships. These results provide coaches and practitioners with new insights into perceived loads and health changes during a season at the elite youth level.
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Thompson F, Rongen F, Cowburn I, Till K. A Longitudinal Mixed Methods Case Study Investigation of the Academic, Athletic, Psychosocial and Psychological Impacts of Being a Sport School Student Athlete. Sports Med 2024:10.1007/s40279-024-02021-4. [PMID: 38635007 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-024-02021-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sport schools are popular environments for simultaneously delivering education and sport to young people. Previous research suggests sport school involvement to have impact (i.e. the positive/negative, intended/unintended and long/short-term outcomes, results and effects) on student athlete's holistic (i.e. academic, athletic, psychosocial and psychological) development. However, previous research is limited by (1) cross-sectional methods, (2) limited multidimensional assessments, (3) lack of consideration for athlete characteristics (e.g. sex) and (4) failure to evaluate how sport school features affect student-athlete impacts. OBJECTIVES The study, using a mixed methods case study approach, aims to (1) longitudinally evaluate the impact of sport school involvement on the holistic development of student athletes, (2) evaluate the impact on holistic development by student-athlete characteristics and (3) explore the features and processes of the sport-school programme that drive/facilitate holistic impacts. METHODS A longitudinal mixed methods design was employed across one full academic school year (33 weeks). Six data-collection methods (i.e. online questionnaire, physical fitness testing battery, academic assessment grades, log diaries, field notes/observation and timeline diagram/illustration) were used to assess the academic, athletic, psychosocial and psychological impacts for 72 student athletes from one sport school in the United Kingdom (UK). RESULTS Student athletes developed positive long-term holistic overall impacts (i.e. academically, athletically and personally), including maintaining stable and relatively high levels of sport confidence, academic motivation, general recovery, life skills, resilience and friends, family and free time scores. Despite positive impacts, juggling academic and sport workload posed challenges for student athletes, having the potential to lead to negative holistic impacts (e.g. fatigue, stress and injury). Positive and negative impacts were linked to many potential features and processes of the sport school (e.g. academic and athletic support services versus insufficient training load build-up, communication, coordination, flexibility and planning). Furthermore, when considering student-athlete characteristics, females had lower sport confidence, higher general stress and body image concerns and less general recovery than males and student athletes who played sport outside the school had lower general recovery. CONCLUSIONS This mixed method, longitudinal study demonstrated sport school involvement resulted in many positive academic (e.g. good grades), athletic (e.g. fitness development), psychosocial (e.g. enhanced confidence) and psychological (e.g. improved resilience) impacts attributed to the academic and athletic support services provided. However, juggling heavy academic and athletic workloads posed challenges leading to negative impacts including fatigue, pressure, stress and injury. Furthermore, holistic impacts may be sex dependent and further support may be required for female student athletes in sport school environments. Overall, these findings demonstrate the complex nature of combining education and sport commitments and how sport schools should manage, monitor and evaluate the features of their programme to maximise the holistic impacts of sport-school student athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion Thompson
- Room G07, Cavendish Hall, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK.
- Queen Ethelburga's College, York, UK.
| | - Fieke Rongen
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ian Cowburn
- Room G07, Cavendish Hall, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Room G07, Cavendish Hall, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
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Thompson F, Rongen F, Cowburn I, Till K. What is it like to be a sport school student-athlete? A mixed method evaluation of holistic impacts and experiences. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289265. [PMID: 38033107 PMCID: PMC10688867 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessing the holistic impact of student-athletes within sport schools is important due to the increasing popularity of sport school programmes, the likelihood that most youth athletes do not ultimately succeed in their sport and the multiple and wide ranging positive and negative impacts associated with intensified youth sport. Therefore, this study, using a mixed method design, aimed to evaluate the 'in-time' holistic impacts and experiences of being a sport school student-athlete. Five data collection methods (i.e., online questionnaire, physical fitness testing battery, academic assessments grades, injury data and log diaries) were used to assess athletic, academic, psychological and psychosocial holistic impacts and experiences of 83 student-athletes from one sport school in the United Kingdom (UK). Due to the mixed method approach, a triangulation design was used whereby quantitative and qualitative data were firstly analysed separately and then integrated and presented together. Overall, the findings demonstrated there were a multitude of positive impacts and experiences associated with being a sport school student-athlete. These included: high average academic attainment, satisfaction with academic support, sport competence, all-round sport development, higher general and sport specific recovery than stress, inter- and intra-personal development, social support, positive peer and parent relationships and dual career motivation. However, impacts and experiences of concern were also apparent including: participation in sport external to the school context, difficulty balancing education and sport, academic lessons missed, injury, fatigue, lack of free time, extra-curricular and social sacrifice, social intensity and body image concerns. Large inter-individual variability was demonstrated across all data analyses highlighting the variable nature of the impacts and experiences of being a sports school student-athlete. Overall, sport schools have the potential to promote many positive holistic impacts, however stakeholders need to be aware, monitor and mitigate the potential negative impacts. Flexible development programmes, individualised support and student-athlete monitoring are essential features required of sport schools to ensure healthy and holistic development for all sport school student-athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion Thompson
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Fieke Rongen
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Cowburn
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Dudley C, Johnston R, Jones B, Till K, Westbrook H, Weakley J. Methods of Monitoring Internal and External Loads and Their Relationships with Physical Qualities, Injury, or Illness in Adolescent Athletes: A Systematic Review and Best-Evidence Synthesis. Sports Med 2023; 53:1559-1593. [PMID: 37071283 PMCID: PMC10356657 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01844-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the increasing professionalisation of youth sports, training load monitoring is increasingly common in adolescent athletes. However, the research examining the relationship between training load and changes in physical qualities, injury, or illness in adolescent athletes is yet to be synthesised in a systematic review. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review was to systematically examine the research assessing internal and external methods of monitoring training load and physical qualities, injury, or illness in adolescent athletes. METHODS Systematic searches of SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, CINAHL and SCOPUS were undertaken from the earliest possible records to March 2022. Search terms included synonyms relevant to adolescents, athletes, physical qualities, injury, or illness. To be eligible for inclusion, articles were required to (1) be original research articles; (2) be published in a peer-reviewed journal; (3) include participants aged between 10 and 19 years and participating in competitive sport; (4) report a statistical relationship between a measure of internal and/or external load and physical qualities, injury or illness. Articles were screened and assessed for methodological quality. A best-evidence synthesis was conducted to identify trends in the relationships reported. RESULTS The electronic search yielded 4125 articles. Following screening and a review of references, 59 articles were included. The most commonly reported load monitoring tools were session ratings of perceived exertion (n = 29) and training duration (n = 22). Results of the best-evidence synthesis identified moderate evidence of positive relationships between resistance training volume load and improvement in strength, and between throw count and injury. However, evidence for other relationships between training load and change in physical qualities, injury, or illness were limited or inconsistent. CONCLUSIONS Practitioners should consider monitoring resistance training volume load for strength training. Additionally, where appropriate, monitoring throw counts may be useful in identifying injury risk. However, given the lack of clear relationships between singular measures of training load with physical qualities, injury, or illness, researchers should consider multivariate methods of analysing training load, as well as factors that may mediate the load-response relationship, such as maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Dudley
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Banyo Campus, Brisbane, Australia.
- St Joseph's Nudgee College, Boondall, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Rich Johnston
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Banyo Campus, Brisbane, Australia
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre (HPALS), Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Premiership Rugby, London, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
- England Performance Unit, The Rugby Football League, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Jonathon Weakley
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Banyo Campus, Brisbane, Australia
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia
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Poor Reliability of Measurement Instruments to Assess Acute Responses to Load in Soccer Players Irrespective of Biological Maturity Status. Pediatr Exerc Sci 2022; 34:125-134. [PMID: 35045392 DOI: 10.1123/pes.2021-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the short-term reliability of measurement instruments to quantify the acute psychophysiological response to load in adolescent soccer players in relation to biological maturity. METHODS Data were collected from 108 U12 to U17 soccer players on 2 consecutive weeks (pre, n = 32; at, n = 34; and post, n = 42 estimated peak height velocity). Measurements consisted of the Short Recovery and Stress Scale, a countermovement jump, assessment of leg stiffness, and a submaximal run to assess exercise heart rate and heart rate recovery. Test-retest reliability was assessed with the coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). RESULTS Items of the Short Recovery and Stress Scale showed poor reliability across maturity groups (CV = 7.0%-53.5%; ICC = .28 to .79). Only few countermovement jump variables (jump height, concentric impulse, and concentric velocity) possessed good reliability. For most variables of the countermovement jump, reliability was better for the post peak height velocity group followed by at-peak height velocity and prepeak height velocity. Very high levels of reliability across maturity groups were observed for exercise heart rate (CV < 1.8%; ICC > .94), while heart rate recovery was more variable (CV < 16.5%; ICC > .48). CONCLUSION Results suggest that the majority of investigated variables have poor reliability, questioning their ability to detect small, yet meaningful changes in acute responses to load in adolescent soccer players.
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Ruf L, Drust B, Ehmann P, Skorski S, Meyer T. Are Measurement Instruments Responsive to Assess Acute Responses to Load in High-Level Youth Soccer Players? Front Sports Act Living 2022; 4:879858. [PMID: 35847450 PMCID: PMC9283776 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.879858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeThe aim of this study was to assess the short-term responsiveness of measurement instruments aiming at quantifying the acute psycho-physiological response to load in high-level adolescent soccer players.MethodsData were collected from 16 high-level male youth soccer players from the Under 15 age group. Players were assessed on two occasions during the week: after 2 days of load accumulation (“high load”) and after at least 48 h of rest. Measurements consisted of the Short Recovery and Stress Scale (SRSS), a countermovement jump (CMJ) and a sub-maximal run to assess exercise heart-rate (HRex) and heart-rate recovery (HRR60s). Training load was quantified using total distance and high-speed running distance to express external and sRPE training load to express internal load. It was expected that good instruments can distinguish reliably between high load and rest.ResultsOdd ratios (0.74–1.73) of rating one unit higher or lower were very low for athlete-reported ratings of stress and recovery of the SRSS. Standardized mean high load vs. rest differences for CMJ parameters were trivial to small (−0.31 to 0.34). The degree of evidence against the null hypothesis that changes are interchangeable ranged from p = 0.04 to p = 0.83. Moderate changes were observed for HRex (−0.62; 90% Cl −0.78 to −0.47; p = 3.24 × 10−9), while small changes were evident for HRR60s (0.45; 90% Cl 0.08–0.80; p = 0.04). Only small to moderate repeated-measures correlations were found between the accumulation of load and acute responses across all measurement instruments. The strongest relationships were observed between HRex and total distance (rm-r = −0.48; 90% Cl −0.76 to −0.25).ConclusionResults suggest that most of the investigated measurement instruments to assess acute psycho-physiological responses in adolescent soccer players have limited short-term responsiveness. This questions their potential usefulness to detect meaningful changes and manage subsequent training load and program adequate recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwig Ruf
- Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
- TSG ResearchLab gGmbH, Zuzenhausen, Germany
- TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Zuzenhausen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Ludwig Ruf ; orcid.org/0000-0001-8589-8910
| | - Barry Drust
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Ehmann
- TSG ResearchLab gGmbH, Zuzenhausen, Germany
- TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, Zuzenhausen, Germany
| | - Sabrina Skorski
- Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Tim Meyer
- Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
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Thompson F, Rongen F, Cowburn I, Till K. The Impacts of Sports Schools on Holistic Athlete Development: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review. Sports Med 2022; 52:1879-1917. [PMID: 35260992 PMCID: PMC9325842 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-022-01664-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Background To understand the multiple and wide-ranging impacts of intensified youth sport, the need for a holistic approach to athlete development has recently been advocated. Sports schools are an increasingly popular operationalisation of intensified youth sport, aiming to offer an optimal environment for holistic development by combining sport and education. Yet, no study has systematically explored the impacts associated with sports schools. Objectives The aims of this mixed method systematic review were to (1) determine the characteristics and features of sports schools; (2) identify the methods used to evaluate sports school impacts, and (3) evaluate the positive and negative holistic athlete development impacts associated with sports school programme involvement. Methods Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, eight electronic databases were searched until the final return in February 2021. Forty-six articles satisfied the inclusion criteria, were analysed thematically, and synthesised using a narrative approach. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results Findings indicated (1) sports school student-athletes receive considerable support in terms of academic and athletic services, more intensified training and competition schedules with high-level training partners, but regularly miss school; (2) multiple methods have been used to evaluate student-athlete impacts, making comparison across studies and developing consensus on the impacts of sports schools difficult; and (3) there are a multitude of immediate, short- and long-term positive and negative impacts associated with the academic/vocational, athletic/physical, psychosocial and psychological development of sports school student-athletes. Conclusions This study is the first to systematically review the research literature to understand the impacts associated with sports schools in terms of holistic athlete development. Practitioners should be aware that they can promote (positive) and negate (negative) health impacts through the design of an appropriate learning environment that simultaneously balances multiple training, academic, psychosocial and psychological factors that can be challenging for youth athletes. We recommend that practitioners aim to design and implement monitoring and evaluation tools that assess the holistic development of student-athletes within their sports schools to ensure they are promoting all-round and healthy youth athlete development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ffion Thompson
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK. .,Queen Ethelburga's College, Thorpe Underwood, York, UK. .,Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Room G07, Cavendish Hall, Headingley Campus, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK.
| | - Fieke Rongen
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Ian Cowburn
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
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The Effect of Rugby Union Match Play on Sleep Patterns and Subsequent Impact on Postmatch Fatigue Responses. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:852-861. [PMID: 35235907 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2021-0421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sleep is recognized as an important recovery strategy, yet little is known regarding its impact on postmatch fatigue. The aims of this study were to (1) describe sleep and postmatch fatigue, (2) understand how sleep is affected by contextual and match factors, and (3) assess how changes in sleep can affect postmatch fatigue. METHODS Twenty-three male rugby union players were monitored across 1 season (N = 71 player-match observations). Actigraphy was used during preseason to establish baseline sleep quality and quantity. Sleep was then measured 1 and 2 days after each match day (MD + 1 and MD + 2). Global positioning systems, notational analysis, and rating of perceived exertion represented external and internal load from matches. Subjective wellness and a standardized run were used to characterize postmatch fatigue 2 days prior (baseline) and at MD + 1 and MD + 2. Linear mixed models established the magnitude of change (effect size [ES]) between baseline, MD + 1, and MD + 2 for sleep and postmatch fatigue. Stepwise forward selection analysis ascertained the effect of match load on sleep and the effect of sleep on postmatch fatigue. Each analysis was combined with magnitude-based decisions. RESULTS Sleep characteristics and neuromuscular and perceptual postmatch fatigue were negatively affected at MD + 1 and MD + 2 (ES = small to very large). Kickoff and travel time had the greatest effect on sleep (ES = small). Wellness and soreness were influenced by sleep (fall-asleep time and fragmentation index) and collisions, respectively (ES = small). CONCLUSION Sleep quality and quantity were affected independently of the match load (ie, running activity) sustained, and changes in sleep marginally affected postmatch fatigue.
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Till K, Lloyd RS, McCormack S, Williams G, Baker J, Eisenmann JC. Optimising long-term athletic development: An investigation of practitioners' knowledge, adherence, practices and challenges. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262995. [PMID: 35077515 PMCID: PMC8789126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term athletic development practices have been recommended for the past two decades. However, limited research exists exploring the knowledge and skills required by practitioners to optimise long-term athletic development. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, adherence, practices, and challenges of practitioners responsible for delivering long-term athletic development. A mixed methods survey was completed by 236 practitioners (e.g., sport coaches, physical education teachers) consisting of four parts; 1) demographics, 2) knowledge, 3) adherence, and 4) practices and challenges. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed by Friedman’s analysis of variance and thematic analyses, respectively. Quantitative findings showed practitioners 1) recognised their responsibility for delivering long-term athletic development, 2) have a familiarity with existing developmental models, and 3) had high adherence, focused upon health and wellbeing, to delivering long-term athletic development. However, practices associated with growth and maturity, monitoring and assessment, and the systematic progression and individualisation of training had lower adherence. Qualitative analysis indicated that practitioner’s perceived definitions of athleticism and long-term athletic development were inconsistent, especially according to the psychological components (i.e., confidence). Practitioners’ descriptions of their long-term athletic development practices identified two higher order themes; 1) goals, in which long-term athletic development “is for life” and the importance of “an individual centered journey” highlighted as sub-themes; and 2) realities of delivering long-term athletic development, whereby variety in programme delivery, monitoring development and practical challenges were noted as key priorities. Eight practical challenges were identified including governance and priorities, resources, education, early specialization, high training volumes, staff communication, parents and youth motivation. This mixed method survey highlighted a multitude of knowledge, adherence, practices and challenges towards long-term athletic development. These novel findings can help inform policy to optimise long-term athletic development and to support the complex problem of developing a healthier, fitter and more physically active youth population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Rhodri S. Lloyd
- Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff School of Sport, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Sport Science and Human Performance, Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Sam McCormack
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Joseph Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joey C. Eisenmann
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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The Recovery Umbrella in the World of Elite Sport: Do Not Forget the Coaching and Performance Staff. Sports (Basel) 2021; 9:sports9120169. [PMID: 34941807 PMCID: PMC8705456 DOI: 10.3390/sports9120169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the field of sports science, the recovery umbrella is a trending topic, and even more so in the world of elite sports. This is evidenced by the significant increase in scientific publications during the last 10 years as teams look to find a competitive edge. Recovery is recognized to be an integral component to assist athlete preparation in the restoration of physical and psychological function, and subsequently, performance in elite team sports athletes. However, the importance of recovery in team staff members (sports coaches and performance staff) in elite sports appears to be a forgotten element. Given the unrelenting intense nature of daily tasks and responsibilities of team staff members, the elite sports environment can predispose coaches to increased susceptibility to psycho-socio physiological fatigue burden, and negatively affect health, wellbeing, and performance. Therefore, the aim of this opinion was to (1) develop an educational recovery resource for team staff members, (2) identify organizational task-specific fatigue indicators and barriers to recovery and self-care in team staff members, and (3) present recovery implementation strategies to assist team staff members in meeting their organizational functions. It is essential that we do not forget the coaching and performance staff in the recovery process.
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Abstract
Context: The assumed risks of early specialization in sport are well known, with several international consensus statements advising against specialization in early athlete development. However, there have been recent calls for more focused research in this area. Evidence Acquisition: Research evidence from several scientific disciplines (eg, sport psychology, sports medicine, human development) were synthesized to develop a framework for practitioners working with adolescent athletes. Study Design: Narrative review. Level of Evidence: Level 4. Results: There appear to be risks associated with a highly specialized approach to athlete training, but the mechanisms driving these effects are largely unknown. Greater attention to understanding these mechanisms would help mitigate risk and develop stronger policy for athlete development. Recommendations for program modifications are provided. Conclusion: Early specialization remains an important topic for researchers and practitioners working with youth and adolescent athletes. However, more work needs to be done to provide truly evidence-based recommendations for youth athlete training.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Till
- Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, England, UK
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12
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Fox JL, Scanlan AT, Stanton R, Sargent C. Insufficient Sleep in Young Athletes? Causes, Consequences, and Potential Treatments. Sports Med 2021; 50:461-470. [PMID: 31679145 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-019-01220-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Sleep is essential in the preparation for, and the recovery from, training and competition. Despite being important for all individuals, young athletes are considered an at-risk group for reduced sleep duration and quality. The purpose of this review is to synthesise current literature relating to sleep duration and quality in young (14-25 years) athletes. Specifically, typical sleep and wake patterns, factors affecting sleep and wake patterns, and the consequences of altered sleep and wake patterns in young athletes are discussed. Scheduling training and competition in the afternoon or evening appears to result in reduced sleep duration due to less time in bed. Evidence suggests that young athletes who obtain less than 8 h of sleep per night are at a higher risk of musculoskeletal injury. An increase in sleep duration above habitual nightly sleep may be associated with favourable performance in young athletes; however, the associations between sleep quality and performance- and health-related outcomes remain unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan L Fox
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Building 81/1.16, Central Queensland University, Bruce Highway, Rockhampton, QLD, 4702, Australia. .,Human Exercise and Training Laboratory, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia.
| | - Aaron T Scanlan
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Building 81/1.16, Central Queensland University, Bruce Highway, Rockhampton, QLD, 4702, Australia.,Human Exercise and Training Laboratory, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
| | - Robert Stanton
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Building 81/1.16, Central Queensland University, Bruce Highway, Rockhampton, QLD, 4702, Australia.,Appleton Institute for Behavioural Science, Central Queensland University, Wayville, SA, Australia
| | - Charli Sargent
- Appleton Institute for Behavioural Science, Central Queensland University, Wayville, SA, Australia
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Sawczuk T, Jones B, Scantlebury S, Till K. Influence of Perceptions of Sleep on Well-Being in Youth Athletes. J Strength Cond Res 2021; 35:1066-1073. [PMID: 30358699 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Sawczuk, T, Jones, B, Scantlebury, S, and Till, K. Influence of perceptions of sleep on well-being in youth athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 1066-1073, 2021-To date, most research considering well-being questionnaires has only considered the training stress imposed on the athlete, without evaluating the questionnaire's relationship with a measure of recovery (e.g., sleep). This study aimed to assess the influence of sleep duration (Sduration), sleep quality (Squality), and sleep index (Sindex; Sduration × Squality) on well-being in youth athletes, while accounting for the known training stressors of training load and exposure to match play. Forty-eight youth athletes (age 17.3 ± 0.5 years) completed a daily questionnaire including well-being (DWBno-sleep; fatigue, muscle soreness, stress, and mood) measures, Perceived Recovery Status Scale (PRS), the previous day's training loads, Sduration, and Squality every day for 13 weeks. Linear mixed models assessed the impact of Sduration, Squality, and Sindex on DWBno-sleep, its individual subscales, and PRS. Sduration had a small effect on DWBno-sleep (d = 0.31; ±0.09), fatigue (d = 0.42; ±0.11), and PRS (d = 0.25; ±0.09). Squality had a small effect on DWBno-sleep (d = 0.47; ±0.08), fatigue (d = 0.53; ±0.11), stress (d = 0.35; ±0.07), mood (d = 0.41; ±0.09), and PRS (d = 0.37; ±0.08). Sindex had a small effect on DWBno-sleep (d = 0.44; ±0.08), fatigue (d = 0.55; ±0.11), stress (d = 0.29; ±0.07), mood (d = 0.37; ±0.09), and PRS (d = 0.36; ±0.09). The results indicate that an athlete's perceptions of sleep are associated with deviations in well-being measures and should be used as an input to the monitoring process rather than as part of the outcome well-being score. The sleep index is suggested as a potential input because it provides information on both the duration and quality of the sleep experienced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Sawczuk
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate, Thorpe Underwood, York, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Jones
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate, Thorpe Underwood, York, United Kingdom
- Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium, Leeds, United Kingdom
- The Rugby Football League, Red Hall, Leeds, United Kingdom ; and
| | - Sean Scantlebury
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate, Thorpe Underwood, York, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Till
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium, Leeds, United Kingdom
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The Association Between Sleep and In-Game Performance in Basketball Players. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:333-341. [DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2020-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose:To investigate the associations between sleep and competitive performance in basketball.Methods:A total of 7 semiprofessional, male players were monitored across the in-season. On nights prior to competition, sleep duration and quality were assessed using actigraphs and sleep diaries. The data were accumulated over 1 (night 1), 2 (nights 1–2 combined), 3 (nights 1–3 combined), and 4 (nights 1–4 combined) nights prior to competition. Performance was reported as player statistics (field goal and free-throw accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, and turnovers) and composite performance statistics (offensive rating, defensive rating, and player efficiency). Linear regression analyses with cluster-robust standard errors using bootstrapping (1000 replications) were performed to quantify the association between sleep and performance.Results:The night before competition, subjective sleep quality was positively associated with offensive rating and player efficiency (P < .05).Conclusions:Strategies to increase subjective sleep quality the night before competition should be considered to increase the likelihood of successful in-game performance, given its association with composite performance metrics.
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Managing Load to Optimize Well-Being and Recovery During Short-Term Match Congestion in Elite Basketball. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2020; 16:45-50. [PMID: 33004680 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2019-0916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In elite basketball, players are exposed to intensified competition periods when participating in both national and international competitions. How coaches manage training between matches and in reference to match scheduling for a full season is not yet known. PURPOSE First, to compare load during short-term match congestion (ie, ≥2-match weeks) with regular competition (ie, 1-match weeks) in elite male professional basketball players. Second, to determine changes in well-being, recovery, neuromuscular performance, and injuries and illnesses between short-term match congestion and regular competition. METHODS Sixteen basketball players (age 24.8 [2.0] y, height 195.8 [7.5] cm, weight 94.8 [14.0] kg, body fat 11.9% [5.0%], VO2max 51.9 [5.3] mL·kg-1·min-1) were monitored during a full season. Session rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE) was obtained, and load was calculated (s-RPE × duration) for each training session or match. Perceived well-being (fatigue, sleep quality, general muscle soreness, stress levels, and mood) and total quality of recovery were assessed each training day. Countermovement jump height was measured, and a list of injuries and illnesses was collected weekly using the adapted Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems. RESULTS Total load (training sessions and matches; P < .001) and training load (P < .001) were significantly lower for ≥2-match weeks. Significantly higher well-being (P = .01) and less fatigue (P = .001) were found during ≥2-match weeks compared with 1-match weeks. CONCLUSION Total load and training load were lower during short-term match congestion compared with regular competition. Furthermore, better well-being and less fatigue were demonstrated within short-term match congestion. This might indicate that coaches tend to overcompensate training load in intensified competition.
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Scantlebury S, Till K, Sawczuk T, Phibbs P, Jones B. Navigating the Complex Pathway of Youth Athletic Development: Challenges and Solutions to Managing the Training Load of Youth Team Sport Athletes. Strength Cond J 2020. [DOI: 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Till K, Baker J. Challenges and [Possible] Solutions to Optimizing Talent Identification and Development in Sport. Front Psychol 2020; 11:664. [PMID: 32351427 PMCID: PMC7174680 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.00664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The modern-day landscape of Olympic and Professional sport is arguably more competitive than ever. One consequence of this is the increased focus on identifying and developing early athletic talent. In this paper, we highlight key challenges associated with talent (athlete) identification and development and propose possible solutions that could be considered by research and practice. The first challenge focuses on clarifying the purposes of talent identification initiatives such as defining what talent is and how its meaning might evolve over time. Challenge two centers on ways to best identify, select and develop talent, including issues with different approaches to identification, the need to understand the impact of development and the need to have appropriate resourcing in the system to support continued development of knowledge. Finally, we discuss two challenges in relation to the 'healthiness' of talent identification and development. The first examines whether a talent identification and development system is 'healthy' for athletes while the second focuses on how sport stakeholders could discourage the apparent trend toward early specialization in youth sport settings. Whilst this paper discusses the research in relation to these challenges, we propose multiple possible solutions that researchers and practitioners could consider for optimizing their approach to talent identification and development. In summary, talent is a complex and largely misunderstood phenomenon lacking robust research evidence, and given concerns that it is potentially unhealthy, talent identification and selection at younger ages is not recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Ramírez-López C, Till K, Sawczuk T, Giuliano P, Peeters A, Beasley G, Murray F, Pledger S, Read D, Jones B. A multi-nation examination of the fatigue and recovery time course during the inaugural Under-18 Six Nations rugby union competition. J Sports Sci 2020; 38:644-651. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1722589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ramírez-López
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Union Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Union Club, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Thomas Sawczuk
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Alexis Peeters
- French Rugby Federation, Centre National de Rugby, Marcoussis, France
| | - Grant Beasley
- Rugby Football Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, UK
| | - Fraser Murray
- Scottish Rugby Union, Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Dale Read
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
- England Performance Unit, The Rugby Football League, Leeds, UK
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
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Sawczuk T, Jones B, Scantlebury S, Till K. The influence of training load, exposure to match play and sleep duration on daily wellbeing measures in youth athletes. J Sports Sci 2018; 36:2431-2437. [PMID: 29620966 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2018.1461337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the influence of training load, exposure to match play and sleep duration on two daily wellbeing measures in youth athletes. Forty-eight youth athletes (age 17.3 ± 0.5 years) completed a daily wellbeing questionnaire (DWB), the Perceived Recovery Status scale (PRS), and provided details on the previous day's training loads (TL) and self-reported sleep duration (sleep) every day for 13 weeks (n = 2727). Linear mixed models assessed the effect of TL, exposure to match play and sleep on DWB and PRS. An increase in TL had a most likely small effect on muscle soreness (d = -0.43;± 0.10) and PRS (d = -0.37;± 0.09). Match play had a likely small additive effect on muscle soreness (d = -0.26;± 0.09) and PRS (d = -0.25;± 0.08). An increase in sleep had a most likely moderate effect on sleep quality (d = 0.80;± 0.14); a most likely small effect on DWB (d = 0.45;± 0.09) and fatigue (d = 0.42;± 0.11); and a likely small effect on PRS (d = 0.25;± 0.09). All other effects were trivial or did not reach the pre-determined threshold for practical significance. The influence of sleep on multiple DWB subscales and the PRS suggests that practitioners should consider the recovery of an athlete alongside the training stress imposed when considering deviations in wellbeing measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Sawczuk
- a Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , UK.,b Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate , Thorpe Underwood , York , UK
| | - Ben Jones
- a Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , UK.,b Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate , Thorpe Underwood , York , UK.,c Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club , Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , UK.,d The Rugby Football League , Red Hall , Leeds , UK.,e Leeds Rhinos Rugby Club , Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , UK
| | - Sean Scantlebury
- a Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , UK.,b Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate , Thorpe Underwood , York , UK
| | - Kevin Till
- a Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , UK.,c Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club , Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , UK.,e Leeds Rhinos Rugby Club , Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , UK
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