Application of Individualized Speed Zones to Quantify External Training Load in Professional Soccer

Assigning goal-probability value to high intensity runs in football

High intensity run counts-defined as the number of runs where a player reaches and maintains a speed above a certain threshold-are a popular football running statistic in sport science research. While the high intensity run number gives an insight into the volume or intensity of a player's work rate it does not give any indication about the effectiveness of their runs or whether or not they provided value to the team. To provide the missing context of value this research borrows the concept of value models from sports analytics which assign continuous values to each frame of optical tracking data. In this research the value model takes the form of goal-probability for the in-possession team. By aligning the value model with high intensity runs this research identifies positive correlations between speed and acceleration with high value runs, as well as a negative correlation between tortuosity (a measure of path curvature) and high value runs. There is also a correlation between the number of players making high intensity runs concurrently and the value generated by the team, suggesting a form of movement coordination. Finally positional differences are explored demonstrating that attacking players make more in-possession high intensity runs when goal probability is high, whereas defensive players make more out-of-possession high intensity runs while goal probability is high. By assigning value to high-intensity runs practitioners are able to add new layers of context to traditional sport science metrics and answer more nuanced questions.

Match-Play Running Performance in Professional Male Soccer Players: The Role of Anaerobic Speed Reserve

Purpose: This study aimed to compare match-play running performance between players with a high (HASR) and low (LASR) anaerobic speed reserve (ASR) profile in professional soccer players. Method: Thirty-six male players from the same club (age: 23.3 ± 5.4 years) took part in this study. Match data were collected from 43 home matches of the first and second division of the Brazilian National Championship over two consecutive seasons. Players had their maximal sprinting (MSS) and aerobic speeds (MAS) determined during field test-based assessments. ASR was defined as MSS minus MAS. Total distance (TD), sprinting distance, number of accelerations and decelerations, absolute peak (PMS(abs)) and mean match sprint speed (MMSS(abs)) and its relative values expressed as a percentage of MSS (PMS(rel) and MMSS(rel)), distance covered > 100% MAS(abs) and > 50% MSS(abs) were compared between the groups and halves. Results: HASR presented greater sprint demand (d > 0.80), PMS(abs) (d = 1.57), and MMSS(abs) (d = 0.99) than the LASR group. The opposite was observed for PMS(rel) and MMSS(rel). The TD and amount of high-intensity accelerations and decelerations were moderately (0.77MAS(abs) and > 50% MSS(abs) decreased between halves (d = 0.72 and 0.77), while the HASR did not (d < 0.10). Conclusion: Our findings indicated that players with larger ASR had greater sprint demand, with a lower relative running intensity, and covered longer distances above MAS. The amplitude of ASR also affected the player's running ability between halves.

Application of arbitrary and individualized load quantification strategies over the weekly microcycle in professional soccer players

The aims of this study were to: (a) determine the differences in external load quantification between arbitrary and individual speed thresholds over the weekly microcycle in professional soccer players, and (b) analyse the association between internal load and different external load quantification strategies (ELQSs). Ten professional outfield players were monitored during training sessions and official matches using 10 Hz GPS devices over a 6-week in-season period. The absolute and relative ("R" before the distance category) distances covered were calculated for the following external load variables: medium-intensity running distance (MIR), high-intensity running (HIR), sprint distance (SD), and very high-intensity running (VHIR). Individualized thresholds were determined based on maximal sprinting speed (MSS) and the last speed achieved during the 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (VIFT) of each player. In terms of match-day workload, significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed between arbitrary and individualized strategies (i.e., MSS and VIFT) for the distance covered in MIR, HIR, SD, VHIR, RHIR, RSD, and RVHIR. The MSS strategy compared to arbitrary thresholds revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) for distance covered in HIR, RHIR, and VHIR during all training sessions. The present results showed that arbitrary thresholds lead to underestimation of external load absolute and relative metrics compared to the MSS strategy throughout the microcycle. The VIFT strategy mainly revealed differences in external load quantification regarding MD compared to arbitrary thresholds. Individualized speed threshold strategies did not achieve better associations with internal load measures in comparison with arbitrary thresholds in professional soccer players.

Physical demands in a small-sided soccer game: a comparison between arbitrary and individualized speed and metabolic power thresholds

BACKGROUND

This study compared the arbitrary and individualized speed and metabolic power (Pmet) intensity thresholds in a small-sided game (SSG) regarding: 1) distance covered; 2) variations of the physical parameters during the SSG; and 3) associations with physical fitness.

METHODS

Twenty-four amateur soccer players (age: 20.0±1.7 years; height: 176.4±4.2 cm; body mass: 67.6±3.2 kg), after being tested for maximal aerobic speed (MAS) and maximal sprinting speed (MSS), participated in a SSG in a separate session and were monitored with global positioning systems (GPS). The distance covered was classified into three intensity zones for each variable (speed and Pmet) using arbitrary and individualized zones based on MAS.

RESULTS

There were differences in the distance covered between methods in zones 1 and 2 for both speed and Pmet (P<0.001), and in zone 3 only for Pmet (P<0.001). There were no variations in any variable analyzed during the SSG. MAS was positively correlated with the distance covered in zone 3 in the arbitrary speed (r=0.67; P<0.001) and Pmet (r=0.60; P<0.01). MSS was negatively correlated with the distance covered in zone 3 in the individualized speed (r=-0.49; P<0.05) and Pmet (r=-0.48; P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that arbitrary and individualized provide different information. While the individualized method could be used to monitor physical demands, the arbitrary could be used to assess running physical performance.

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

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.

Advancing and critical appraisal of an integrative load monitoring approach in microcycles in professional soccer

Despite load monitoring being considered an integral part of targeted performance management, including injury and illness prevention, there is currently no consensus of an effective monitoring system in professional soccer. Thus, the aims were to apply an integrative load monitoring approach, previously established in rink-hockey, in professional soccer; extend this approach with further data (Short Recovery and Stress Scale); assess this (extended) approach, thereby further evaluating the relationship between the used external load (EL) measures (total distance, distance above 55% and 70% of individual maximal speed, number of accelerations and decelerations > 4 m/s2, total loading) and the internal load (IL) measure session rate of perceived exertion training load (sRPE-TL) as well as between the used EL measures and sRPE. This retrospective observational cohort study analyzed data from a Swiss team collected over a 14 week-period during the 2021/22 season. Based on our findings, the integrative approach tested proved to be an applicable load monitoring tool in professional soccer, placing players on a fitness-fatigue continuum throughout the different microcycle sessions without using tests, thus providing relevant information to individually tailor training programs. sRPE-TL (ρ [95% CI] = .55 [.51 to .59] to .87 [.85 to .88]; all p < .001) better reflected the EL experienced by players than sRPE (ρ [95% CI] = .45 [.40 to .50] to .71 [.69 to .75]; all p < .001) supporting the definition of sRPE-TL as a measure of IL. However, for even stronger relevance of the tested tool, further research is warranted, especially to ascertain its sensitivity and determine an optimal selection of EL and IL measures. In sum, the present data clearly demonstrate the importance of load management taking place at an individual level, even within team structures, thereby analyzing a set of both EL and IL measures.

Arbitrary absolute vs. individualized running speed thresholds in team sports: A scoping review with evidence gap map

The aims of this scoping review were (i) to characterize the main methodological approaches to assessing individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (ii) to assess the use of traditional arbitrary (absolute) thresholds compared to individualized running speed thresholds in team sports players; (iii) to provide an evidence gap map (EGM) about the approaches and study designs employed in investigations in team sports and (iv) to provide directions for future research and practical applications for the strength and conditioning field. Methods studies were searched for in the following databases: (i) PubMed; (ii) Scopus; (iii) SPORTDiscus and (iv) Web of Science. The search was conducted on 15/07/2022. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Nonrandomized Studies (RoBANS). From 3,195 potentially relevant articles, 36 were eligible for inclusion in this review. Of the 36 included articles, 27 (75%) focused on the use of arbitrary and individualized running speed thresholds to describe the locomotor demands (e.g., high intensity running) of players. Thirty-four articles used individualized speed running thresholds based on physical fitness assessments (e.g., 40-m linear sprint) or physical performance (e.g., maximal acceleration). This scoping review supported the need for a greater focus to be placed on improving the methodological aspects of using individualized speed running thresholds in team sports. More than just creating alternatives to arbitrary thresholds, it is essential to increase the replicability of methodological conditions whilst ensuring that research comparing the most adequate measures and approaches to individualization takes into consideration the population and context of each study.

Training and match load ratios in professional soccer-should we use player- or position-specific match reference values?

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.

Seasonal analysis of match load in professional soccer players: An observational cohort study of a Swiss U18, U21 and first team

The aim of this study was to quantify and compare various external match load measures in three age groups and leagues in male soccer (U18 in highest league of their age group vs U21 in fourth highest league vs first team in highest league). In this retrospective observational cohort study accelerations, decelerations, absolute and relative high-speed running as well as sprint distance, dynamic stress load, explosive distance, high intensity bursts total distance, high metabolic load (HML) distance, speed intensity, total distance, total time, and total loading were assessed in 416 individual player matches of 59 players. All these external load measures showed large inter-individual variability. At a group level, one-way ANOVAs or Kruskal-Wallis tests revealed statistically significant differences between the three teams for all measures analyzed (all p < 0.05), except accelerations. The first team displayed statistically significant higher dynamic stress load, explosive distance, HML distance, speed intensity, total distance and total loading compared to the two youth teams (all p < 0.05). The U18 featured statistically significant higher number of decelerations, absolute and relative high-speed running distance, high metabolic load distance, speed intensity, relative sprint distance, total distance, and total time than the U21, while for U21 higher dynamic stress load was observed than for U18 (all p < 0.05). Based on our data we conclude a routinely monitoring of match loads of different age groups and competitive settings to be required to 1) provide an indication of what players need to be prepared for, 2) track the athletic and match evolution, and 3) individually tailor training programs allowing players to fulfill the short- and long-term sport-specific requirements.

Modeling the Major Influencing Factor on Match Running Performance during the In-Season Phase in a Portuguese Professional Football Team

The aim of this study was two-fold: (1) to analyze the influence of season phase (i.e., the start of the in-season and mid-in-season) on match running performance in a Portuguese professional football team; (2) to determine and model the main factor influencing match running performance during the in-season in this specific football team. Eighteen matches were collected by an 18 Hz global positioning system (GPS) from a professional Portuguese football team during the start of the in-season and mid-in-season. The match running performance was analyzed according to season phases, presenting significant differences in total distance (TD) (tlowerbound = 4.71, p < 0.001; tupperbound = −2.22, p = 0.002), average speed (AvS) (tlowerbound = 359.45, p < 0.001; tupperbound = −359.87, p < 0.001), and relative high speed running (rHSR) (tlowerbound = 13.10, p < 0.001; tupperbound = −10.21, p < 0.001). The logistic regression showed TD (β = −1.59, z = −2.84, p = 0.005) and AvS (β = 2.68, z = −2.84, p = 0.007) as the major factors influencing match running performance during seasonal variation. Sprints and accelerations showed no significance for predicting match running performance during the season phases (β = −0.05 to 1.07, z = −0.95 to 1.07, p = 0.29 to 0.72). Current research confirms that lower and upper bounds should be used to quantify seasonal differences on match running performance. TD and AvS were described as the main factors influencing match running performance during the in-season phase. Thus, it is important to highlight the pace and volume of the game to maximize match running performance.

Training in women soccer players: A systematic review on training load monitoring

Objective

The present systematic review aimed to provide an overview of training load (TL), along with their responses, monitoring during training sessions in highly trained and elite adult women soccer players.

Data source

Electronic databases searches (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Ebsco) for relevant studies published in peer-reviewed journals were conducted, and eligibility criteria were based on the PICOS model in accordance with PRISMA guidelines.

Study selection

Studies were considered as follows: (a) highly trained and elite adult (>18 years) women's soccer players; (b) continuous (minimum 1-week duration) TL monitoring in the context of the team routine; (c) TL collected from entire training session. Methodological qualitative assessments and risk of bias criteria were used for judging the studies.

Data extraction

A total of 1,163 studies were identified, and 16 were included. The selected studies were fully screened to extract the population characteristics; the number of players; a type of study design; region where the study was performed; the main findings.

Data synthesis

Accumulated external TL (ETL) during the pre-season was positively correlated to enhanced adaptations in intermittent exercise capacity. Daily ETL was negatively correlated to next-day self-reported fatigue and muscle soreness. Daily internal TL (ITL) was negatively correlated to post-session sleep duration and sleep efficiency. One study showed that higher accumulated player load and total distance were associated with injury.

Conclusion

Information about TL during training sessions in women soccer players is very sparse, and it is currently very difficult to consider evidence-based practices for training sessions in highly trained and elite adult women soccer players. Moreover, the dose-response relationships between TL and training outcome (e.g., fatigue, training adaptations and injuries) need to be further explored to understand the optimal training stimulus to enhance performance outcomes while preserving player health.

When and How do Professional Soccer Players Experience Maximal Intensity Sprints in Laliga?

This study aimed to 1) examine the periods in which maximal intensity sprints occurred during professional soccer matches and 2) analyze the maximal intensity sprints registered in match play considering the effect of playing position and other contextual variables. A total of 1252 match observations were collected from 277 male professional soccer players. Sprinting actions at maximal intensity were analyzed during 30 official matches, and both contextual and performance variables were collected using electronic performance and tracking systems. Maximal intensity sprints were more frequent in the first and last periods of the match (0'-15'; 75'-90'), regardless of the playing position (χ²=23.01; p=0.29; ES=0.07). These sprints were usually non-linear actions without possession of the ball and had different tactical purposes depending on the playing position. In addition, regarding the physical performance required by maximal intensity sprints, that the mean sprint duration ranged from ~4.9 s to ~9 s, the mean distance covered ranged from ~30 m to ~55 m, while the mean maximum velocity was between ~30.12 and ~32.80 km/h depending on the tactical purpose and playing position. In conclusion, professional soccer players need to be prepared during warm-ups for maximal intensity sprints in the first period of the match as well as maximal intensity sprints under high fatigue conditions given the frequency of sprints in the last period of the match. Also, training drills should be designed with a special focus on non-linear sprints without possession of the ball, based on the main tactical purpose of each position (e.g., CD: interceptions; MF: recovery runs; FB, WMF and FW: run the channel).

Effects of Chronological Age, Relative Age, and Maturation Status on Accumulated Training Load and Perceived Exertion in Young Sub-Elite Football Players

The aims of this study were 1) to analyze the influence of chronological age, relative age, and biological maturation on accumulated training load and perceived exertion in young sub-elite football players and 2) to understand the interaction effects amongst age grouping, maturation status, and birth quartiles on accumulated training load and perceived exertion in this target population. A 6-week period (18 training sessions and 324 observation cases) concerning 60 young male sub-elite football players grouped into relative age (Q1 to Q4), age group (U15, U17, and U19), and maturation status (Pre-peak height velocity (PHV), Mid-PHV, and Post-PHV) was established. External training load data were collected using 18 Hz global positioning system technology (GPS), heart-rate measures by a 1 Hz short-range telemetry system, and perceived exertion with total quality recovery (TQR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). U17 players and U15 players were 2.35 (95% CI: 1.25–4.51) and 1.60 (95% CI: 0.19–4.33) times more likely to pertain to Q1 and Q3, respectively. A negative magnitude for odds ratio was found in all four quartile comparisons within maturation status (95% CI: 6.72–0.64), except for Mid-PHV on Q2 (95% CI: 0.19–4.33). Between- and within-subject analysis reported significant differences in all variables on age group comparison measures (F = 0.439 to 26.636, p = 0.000 to 0.019, η2 = 0.003–0.037), except for dynamic stress load (DSL). Between-subject analysis on maturity status comparison demonstrated significant differences for all training load measures (F = 6.593 to 14.424, p = 0.000 to 0.037, η2 = 0.020–0.092). Interaction effects were found for age group x maturity band x relative age (Λ Pillai’s = 0.391, Λ Wilk’s = 0.609, F = 11.385, p = 0.000, η2 = 0.391) and maturity band x relative age (Λ Pillai’s = 0.252, Λ Wilk’s = 0.769, F = 0.955, p = 0.004, η2 = 0.112). Current research has confirmed the effects of chronological age, relative age, and biological maturation on accumulated training load. Perceived exertion does not seem to show any differences concerning age group or maturity status. Evidence should be helpful for professionals to optimize the training process and young football players’ performance.

Assessing the Relationship Between External and Internal Match Loads in Elite Women's Rugby Sevens

PURPOSE

To assess the relationship between external and internal load during official women's rugby seven matches.

METHODS

Six backs (age = 24.2 [3.2] y; height = 161.5 [7.3] cm; body mass = 59.5 [5.0] kg; playing experience = 5.3 [1.5] y) and 8 forwards (age = 22.4 [2.7] y; height = 167.0 [4.8] cm; body mass = 70.6 [5.6] kg; playing experience = 5.0 [1.5] y) belonging to the women's rugby seven Brazilian national team were monitored across 3 international tournaments during the 2019-20 season, with 2 players excluded from the analysis since they did not participate in any investigated match. Total distance (TD), distance during high-intensity running 18.1 to 20.0 km·h-1 and >20 km·h-1 (sprinting), number of accelerations >1.8 m·s-2 (ACC), and of decelerations <1.8 m·s-2 were used as match load volume measures, while their relative values (TD per minute, high-intensity running per minute, sprinting per minute, ACC per minute, and decelerations per minute) were used as external load match intensity measures. Internal load intensity and volume were assessed using the session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) and its value multiplied by match duration (sRPE-ML), respectively. Spearman correlations and linear mixed models were used to assess the relationships between internal and external load measures.

RESULTS

A very large relationship (ρ = .830, P < .001) was found between sRPE-ML and TD, with linear mixed models showing that TD statistically affected sRPE-ML (P < .001). Linear mixed models analysis showed that ACC per minute was also affecting the sRPE-ML (P = .017), while sprinting (P = .007) and ACC per minute (P = .005) were the only 2 measures statistically affecting sRPE. However, weak relationships (trivial to large) were found for these and all other measures.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight that TD is the main external load measure able to anticipate the internal load responses measured via sRPE-ML in elite women's rugby sevens.

Portuguese Football Federation consensus statement 2020: nutrition and performance in football

Nutrition is an undeniable part of promoting health and performance among football (soccer) players. Nevertheless, nutritional strategies adopted in elite football can vary significantly depending on culture, habit and practical constraints and might not always be supported by scientific evidence. Therefore, a group of 28 Portuguese experts on sports nutrition, sports science and sports medicine sought to discuss current practices in the elite football landscape and review the existing evidence on nutritional strategies to be applied when supporting football players. Starting from understanding football's physical and physiological demands, five different moments were identified: preparing to play, match-day, recovery after matches, between matches and during injury or rehabilitation periods. When applicable, specificities of nutritional support to young athletes and female players were also addressed. The result is a set of practical recommendations that gathered consensus among involved experts, highlighting carbohydrates periodisation, hydration and conscious use of dietary supplements.

Analysis of key external and internal load variables in professional female futsal players: a longitudinal study

The aims of this study were to identify the key external and internal load variables in professional futsal through principal components analysis (PCA), and analyse the physical performance required by the players in official matches. Data were collected from 14 female players during 10 matches using WIMU PRO^TM. The PCA selected a total of 22 variables as key indicators of players' load. Specifically, these variables were represented by five principal components. However, a novel finding was that different components were extracted when the analysis was carried out by full match (68.83% of total variance), first half (69.81% of total variance), or second half (65.96% of total variance). Also, this study found that the players decreased their physical performance during the second half. Based on these results, this study may help optimize performance and reduce the injury risk. Performance should not be only analysed considering the full match external/internal load but also specifying by match halves. This is explained by the fact that there were variables that made up the principal components in the first half, but not in the second half or full match. Finally, coaches should adopt training strategies which deal with the decrease in physical performance during the second half.

Key load indicators and load variability in professional soccer players: a full season study

The aims of this study were to 1) determine the key load indicators in professional soccer through principal component analysis (PCA); and 2) analyse the load variability of each training and match day within the microcycle considering the principal components. Data from 111 load variables were collected using tracking systems in both training and match days (MD). The results showed that 7 variables, which belonged to the first two components of the PCA, explained 80.3% of total variance. Specifically, these variables were Metabolic power, total of steps, Fourier transform (FFT) duration, deceleration distance covered (2-3 m/s²), total of running actions (12-18 km/h; 21-24 km/h), and distance covered (6-12 km/h). Regarding the analysis of the load variability of each training and match day within the microcycle, the lowest load variability was observed in -1MD. Also, a great load variability in +1MD with significant differences compared to -5MD (p<0.001; d=0.49) and -4MD (p=0.01; d=0.26) was found. This study suggests the use of the PCA in the context of team sports to reduce the large number of variables, which are daily managed by strength and conditioning coaches, in addition to the analysis of load variability of each training and match day within the microcycle.

The first, second, and third most demanding passages of play in professional soccer: a longitudinal study

The study aimed to compare the physical demands required during the first, second, and third most demanding passages (MDP) of play considering the effect of playing position, type of passage, and passage duration. A longitudinal study for three mesocycles was conducted in a professional soccer team competing in LaLiga123. Tracking systems collected total distance covered (DIS), high-speed running distance (HSRD), sprinting distance (SPD), total of high-intensity accelerations (ACCHIGH), and total of high-intensity decelerations (DECHIGH). The results confirmed that a significant effect of the type of passage (first, second or third MDP of play) on DIS (F(1.24, 178.89) = 115.53; p = 0.01; ηp2 = 0.45), HSRD (F(1.35, 195.36) = 422.82; p = 0.01; ηp2 = 0.75), SPD (F(1.43, 206.59) = 299.99; p = 0.01; ηp2 = 0.68), ACCHIGH (F(1.45, 209.38) = 268.59; p = 0.01; ηp2 = 0.65), and DECHIGH (F(1.45, 209.38) = 324.88; p = 0.01; ηp2 = 0.69) was found. In addition, a significant interaction between playing position, type and duration of the passage was observed in DIS (F(12.60, 453.47) = 1.98; p = 0.02; ηp2 = 0.05) and ACCHIGH (F(13.99, 503.78) = 1.92; p = 0.03; ηp2 = 0.06). In conclusion, significant differences in physical demands between the first, second, and third MDP of play were observed. However, there were some cases (DIS and ACCHIGH) in which no significant differences were found between these passages. Therefore, coaches should consider not only the magnitude of these peak intensity periods (e.g., distance covered per minute) but also the number of passages that players may experience during match play.

Activity Profile and Physical Performance of Match Play in Elite Futsal Players

Understanding the physical demands of futsal requires a precise quantification of the players’ activities during match play. This study aimed to (1) describe external load, identifying the differences between the first and second halves in official futsal matches; (2) identify the most important external workload metrics to profile the players; and (3) identify the collinearity between variables in the analysis of physical performance of futsal players. Match external load data were collected from male players (n = 28) in six games of the Final Eight of the Portuguese Futsal Cup 2018. The players increased the distance covered per minute at 12–18 km/h in the second half (p < 0.01). Dynamic stress load also increased in the second half (p = 0.01). The variables that best predicted the physical profile of each player were decelerations (predictor importance, PI = 1), walking (PI = 1), sprinting (PI = 1), jogging (PI = 0.997), total distance covered per minute (PI = 0.992), and metabolic power (PI = 0.989). Decelerations showed the highest association with the clusters levels (p < 0.001; PI = 1); this suggests decelerations as a potential candidate for best analyzing the physical load of futsal players. Overall, the data from this exploratory study suggest that distance covered per minute (m/min), number of sprints (>18 km/h), decelerations (greater than-2 m/s), and metabolic power (W/kg) are the variables that most discriminate the load intensity of elite futsal players.