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Snyder BJ, Maung-Maung C, Whitacre C. Indicators of Fatigue during a Soccer Match Simulation Using GPS-Derived Workload Values: Which Metrics Are Most Useful? Sports (Basel) 2023; 12:9. [PMID: 38251283 PMCID: PMC10818658 DOI: 10.3390/sports12010009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Research into women's competitive soccer matches has shown distance and high-speed running (HSR) reductions over time, but the effects on some GPS-derived metrics have not been investigated. The purpose of this project was to examine the utility of common GPS metrics for indicating fatigue from the T-SAFT90 match simulation in collegiate soccer players. Unlike in competitive matches, changes to these metrics occurred as early as 15 min, with HSR, average and max speed, and speed intensity (SI) exhibiting significant declines. HSR and SI were even further decreased in later periods, with HSR lower in minutes 30-40 (T30-35 and T35-40) than T15-20 and lower in T70-85 than T45-60. SI showed a similar pattern of continued decline, reaching its lowest value in the last three time segments. Accelerations and decelerations were also decreased beginning at T15-20 and T20-25, respectively, but the fatigue index (FI), dynamic stress load (DSL), and step balance (SB) were unchanged. It can be concluded that in contrast to competitive matches where players can dictate their own intensity, a match simulation may result in a quicker onset of fatigue, but not all GPS-derived values change as expected in fatiguing environments. Coaches and sports scientists may use these findings to properly monitor fatigue in real time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J. Snyder
- Department of Health Sciences, Furman University, Greenville, SC 29613, USA;
| | - Cameron Maung-Maung
- Department of Health Sciences, Furman University, Greenville, SC 29613, USA;
| | - Cameron Whitacre
- School of Medicine Greenville, University of South Carolina, 607 Grove Rd., Greenville, SC 29605, USA;
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Choice EE, Tufano JJ, Jagger KL, Cochrane-Snyman KC. Match-Play External Load and Internal Load in NCAA Division II Women's Soccer. J Strength Cond Res 2023; 37:633-639. [PMID: 37844187 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004578] [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: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Choice, EE, Tufano, JJ, Jagger, KL, and Cochrane-Snyman, KC. Match-play external load and internal load in NCAA Division II women's soccer. J Strength Cond Res 37(12): e633-e639, 2023-The purpose of this study was to describe average match-play demands for NCAA DII women's soccer, including positional and time-specific differences, and relationships between variables. External load was assessed using total distance, relative distance, sprint distance, number of power plays, peak speed, and Player Load. Internal load was assessed using session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). Mixed factor analysis of variance was used to assess time by position (midfielder, forward, or defender) for dependent measures. Correlations were assessed between separate pair groups. Average match-play demands included 9,463 ± 2,591 m total distance, 172 ± 48 m·min -1 relative distance, 531 ± 301 m sprint distance, peak speeds of 26 ± 1.6 kph, 46.71 ± 21.75 power plays, and 457.84 ± 121.78 AU Player Load. Significant ( p < 0.05) positional differences were found for total distance, Player Load, match load, and peak speed. Significant, moderate correlations were found between relative distance and match load, and sRPE and total distance, Player Load, and power plays (all p < 0.001). Results indicate there are positional differences within a women's DII soccer team, with midfielders accumulating the longest distances (10,509 ± 2,913 m) and greatest Player Load (527.79 ± 130.5 AU) and match load (576 ± 343 AU), forwards running the fastest peak speeds (26.8 ± 1.5 kph), and defenders maintaining most consistent performance. Match-play external and internal load data should be monitored by player position and half for DII women's soccer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Choice
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, School of Physical Therapy, Regis University, Denver, Colorado
| | - James J Tufano
- Charles University in the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Prague, Czech Republic; and
- Concordia University of Chicago, River Forest, Illinois
| | - Kristen L Jagger
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, School of Physical Therapy, Regis University, Denver, Colorado
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Contextualised high-intensity running profiles of elite football players with reference to general and specialised tactical roles. Biol Sport 2023; 40:291-301. [PMID: 36636193 PMCID: PMC9806759 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2023.116003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to contextualise physical metrics with tactical actions according to general and specialised tactical roles. A total of 244 English Premier League players were analysed by coding player's physical-tactical actions via the fusion of tracking data and video. Data were analysed across 5 general (Central Defensive Players = CDP, Wide Defensive Players = WDP, Central Midfield Players = CMP, Wide Offensive Players = WOP, Central Offensive Players = COP) and 11 specialised positions (Centre Backs = CB, Full-Backs = FB, Wing-Backs = WB, Box-to-Box Midfielders = B2BM, Central Defensive Midfielders = CDM, Central Attacking Midfielders = CAM, Wide Midfielders = WM, Wide Forwards = WF, Centre Forwards = CF). COP covered more distance at high-intensity (> 19.8 km · h-1) when performing actions such as 'Break into Box', Run in Behind/Penetrate', and 'Close Down/Press' than other positions (ES: 0.6-5.2, P < 0.01). WOP covered more high-intensity 'Run with Ball' distance (ES: 0.7-1.7, P < 0.01) whereas WDP performed more 'Over/Underlap' distance than other positions (ES: 0.9-1.4, P < 0.01). CDP and WDP covered more high-intensity 'Covering' distances than other positions (ES: 0.4-2.4, P < 0.01). Nonetheless, data demonstrated that implementing specialised positional analysis relative to a generalised approach is more sensitive in measuring physical-tactical performances of players with the latter over or underestimating the match demands of the players compared to the former. A contextualised analysis may assist coaches and practitioners when designing position or even player-specific training drills since the data provides unique physical-tactical trends across specialised roles.
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Okunuki T, Magoshi H, Maemichi T, Liu Z, Tanaka H, Matsumoto M, Hoshiba T, Kumai T. The prevalence and effect of the sites of pain in female soccer players with medial shin pain. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2023; 63:111-120. [PMID: 35333031 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.22.13655-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female soccer players are often diagnosed with medial shin pain, which includes tibial stress fracture, medial tibial stress syndrome, and chronic exertional compartment syndrome. As the possibility of varied sites of pain affecting sports activities has not been fully researched, an urgent discussion and evidence is required. This study investigates the prevalence and effect of sites of pain on the sports activities of female soccer players with medial shin pain. METHODS A questionnaire survey was conducted for 196 female soccer players with medial shin pain to assess symptom duration, the effect of practice and performance, and sites of pain. The players were classified into three conditions (tibial stress fracture, medial tibial stress syndrome, or medial shin pain with neurological symptoms) and compared based on sites of pain. RESULTS We observed that medial tibial stress syndrome had a lower impact on performance compared to that of tibial stress fracture and medial shin pain with neurological symptoms. While participants with tibial stress fracture had to suspend practice sessions more frequently, the difference in symptom duration between the classified groups was not statistically significant. The effect of sites of pain on sports activities was not significantly different in participants with medial tibial stress syndrome. CONCLUSIONS Medial shin pain should be evaluated carefully to differentiate between medial tibial stress syndrome and medial shin pain with neurological symptoms. Restriction of sports activities may help improve the patient's condition early, regardless of the presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Okunuki
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Magoshi
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hachioji Sports Orthopedic Clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Zijian Liu
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Tanaka
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan.,Hyakutake Orthopedic and Sports Clinic, Saga, Japan
| | - Masatomo Matsumoto
- Graduate School of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan.,Kuwana City Medical Center, Mie, Japan
| | - Takuma Hoshiba
- Waseda Institute for Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Kumai
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan -
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Congested Period in Professional Youth Soccer Players Showed a Different High Decelerations Profile in the Group Performance and a Specific Positional Behaviour. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2022; 7:jfmk7040108. [PMID: 36547654 PMCID: PMC9781980 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk7040108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Present soccer demands are increasing in terms of running requirements and the number of matches until youth soccer players experience several periods of fixture congestion during the season. Currently, congested periods have not been extensively studied in this population. For this reason, this study aimed to compare the running demands of professional youth soccer players in congested periods according to their specific playing positions. Twenty youth players were grouped according to their position: Central Defenders (CD), Fullbacks (FB), Midfielders (MF), Wide Midfielders (WM) and Strikers (ST). A GPS system was used to monitor the players during the first (M1), second (M2) and third (M3) matches played during a congested period, measuring their total distance covered (TDC), DC 18.0−20.9 km·h−1, DC 21.0−23.9 km·h−1, DC > 24.0 km·h−1, number of high accelerations (>2.5 m·s−2), number of high decelerations (<2.5 m·s−2) and peak speed (km·h−1). M1, M2 and M3 showed the same TDC, DC 18.0−20.9 km·h−1, DC 21.0−23.9 km·h−1, DC > 24.0 km·h−1, number of high accelerations, and peak speed (p > 0.05). The statistical analysis showed significant differences between M1, M2 and M3 in the decelerations recorded between M1 and M3 (p < 0.05). Likewise, each position showed specific behaviours during the congested period, with all showing at least one difference in DC 18.0−20.9 km·h−1, 21.0−23.9 km·h−1 or >24.0 km·h−1 between M1, M2 and M3 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, coaches should pay attention to the fatigue produced by the number of high decelerations. Secondly, an individualized training protocol should be considered according to the running requirements of each position when youth professional soccer players are involved in a congested period.
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Choice E, Tufano J, Jagger K, Hooker K, Cochrane-Snyman KC. Differences across Playing Levels for Match-Play Physical Demands in Women’s Professional and Collegiate Soccer: A Narrative Review. Sports (Basel) 2022; 10:sports10100141. [PMID: 36287754 PMCID: PMC9609138 DOI: 10.3390/sports10100141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Advancements in sport technology have made quantifying match-play external load (e.g., total distance, sprint distance, number of sprints) a popular option for athletics personnel. These variables of volume and intensity are useful for both objectively monitoring training in field-based sports and for designing training programs. As physical abilities differ across playing levels, match-play demands likely also differ. This narrative review compiles and compares the match-play external load data for women’s soccer at the professional and collegiate levels. Databases were searched through July 2022, yielding 13 primary articles that assessed the match-play demands of women’s soccer (3 professional, 8 Division I, 1 Division II, and 1 Division III). The results indicate that the average total distance covered were similar between the professional, Division I and Division III levels, but the variability was greater among Division III compared to professional and Division I players. Data for Division II are scarce, but the total distance covered appears to be less than for professional, Division I and Division III. There was also large variability for sprint distance and number of sprints across data at all playing levels. Considering the lack of studies of Division II and Division III players, more research is necessary to determine how playing level may affect external load profiles, as isolated studies likely only reflect data from isolated teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Choice
- School of Physical Therapy, Regis University, Denver, CO 80221, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - James Tufano
- Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Charles University Prague, 16252 Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Concordia University of Chicago, River Forest, IL 60305, USA
| | - Kristen Jagger
- School of Physical Therapy, Regis University, Denver, CO 80221, USA
| | - Kayla Hooker
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Kristen C. Cochrane-Snyman
- Department of Health and Human Performance, Concordia University of Chicago, River Forest, IL 60305, USA
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Tarnowski CA, Rollo I, Carter JM, Lizarraga-Dallo MA, Oliva MP, Clifford T, James LJ, Randell RK. Fluid Balance and Carbohydrate Intake of Elite Female Soccer Players during Training and Competition. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14153188. [PMID: 35956363 PMCID: PMC9370343 DOI: 10.3390/nu14153188] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined sweat rate, sweat sodium concentration [Na+], and ad-libitum carbohydrate and fluid intakes in elite female soccer players during training (n = 19) and a match (n = 8); eight completed both for comparisons. Body mass (kg) was obtained before and after exercise to calculate sweat rate. The sweat [Na+] was determined from absorbent patches on the thigh or back. Sweat rate, percentage body mass change, and sweat [Na+] for 19 players during training were 0.47 ± 0.19 L·h−1, +0.19 ± 0.65%, and 28 ± 10 mmol·L−1, respectively. Sweat rate was higher during a match (0.98 ± 0.34 L·h−1) versus training (0.49 ± 0.26 L·h−1, p = 0.007). Body mass losses were greater post-match (−1.12 ± 0.86%) than training (+0.29 ± 0.34%, p = 0.003). Sweat [Na+] was similar for training (29 ± 9 mmol·L−1) and a match (35 ± 9 mmol·L−1) (p = 0.215). There were no differences in match versus training carbohydrate intakes (2.0 ± 2.3 g·h−1, 0.9 ± 1.5 g·h−1, respectively, p = 0.219) or fluid intakes (0.71 ± 0.30 L·h−1, 0.53 ± 0.21 L·h−1, respectively, p = 0.114). In conclusion, female soccer players’ sweat rates were higher during a match than during training, and carbohydrate intakes were below recommendations for matches and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A. Tarnowski
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, PepsiCo Life Sciences, Global R&D, Leicestershire LE4 1ET, UK; (I.R.); (J.M.C.); (R.K.R.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ian Rollo
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, PepsiCo Life Sciences, Global R&D, Leicestershire LE4 1ET, UK; (I.R.); (J.M.C.); (R.K.R.)
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK; (T.C.); (L.J.J.)
| | - James M. Carter
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, PepsiCo Life Sciences, Global R&D, Leicestershire LE4 1ET, UK; (I.R.); (J.M.C.); (R.K.R.)
| | | | - Mireia Porta Oliva
- FC Barcelona Medical Department, FC Barcelona, 08014 Barcelona, Spain; (M.A.L.-D.); (M.P.O.)
| | - Tom Clifford
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK; (T.C.); (L.J.J.)
| | - Lewis J. James
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK; (T.C.); (L.J.J.)
| | - Rebecca K. Randell
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, PepsiCo Life Sciences, Global R&D, Leicestershire LE4 1ET, UK; (I.R.); (J.M.C.); (R.K.R.)
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire LE11 3TU, UK; (T.C.); (L.J.J.)
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Harkness-Armstrong A, Till K, Datson N, Myhill N, Emmonds S. A systematic review of match-play characteristics in women's soccer. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268334. [PMID: 35771861 PMCID: PMC9246157 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This review aimed to (1) systematically review the scientific literature evaluating the match-play characteristics of women's soccer, (2) determine the methods adopted to quantify match-play characteristics of women's soccer, and (3) present the physical, technical and tactical characteristics of women's soccer match-play across age-groups, playing standards and playing positions. A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted in May 2021; keywords relating to the population, soccer and match-play characteristics were used. Studies which quantified physical, technical or tactical performance of women's soccer players during match-play were included. Excluded studies included adapted match-play formats and training studies. Sixty-nine studies met the eligibility criteria. Studies predominantly quantified match-play characteristics of senior international (n = 27) and domestic (n = 30) women's soccer match-play, with only seven studies reporting youth match-play characteristics. Physical (n = 47), technical (n = 26) and tactical characteristics (n = 2) were reported as whole-match (n = 65), half-match (n = 21), segmental (n = 17) or peak (n = 8) characteristics. Beyond age-groups, playing standard, and playing position, fourteen studies quantified the impact of contextual factors, such as environment or match outcome, on match-play characteristics. Distance was the most commonly reported variable (n = 43), as outfield women's soccer players covered a total distance of 5480-11160 m during match-play. This systematic review highlights that physical match-performance increases between age-groups and playing standards, and differs between playing positions. However, further research is warranted to understand potential differences in technical and tactical match-performance. Coaches and practitioners can use the evidence presented within this review to inform population-specific practices, however, they should be mindful of important methodological limitations within the literature (e.g. inconsistent velocity and acceleration/deceleration thresholds). Future research should attempt to integrate physical, technical and tactical characteristics as opposed to quantifying characteristics in isolation, to gain a deeper and more holistic insight into match-performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Harkness-Armstrong
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, United Kingdom
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Till
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Naomi Datson
- Institute of Sport, University of Chichester, Chichester, United Kingdom
| | - Naomi Myhill
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- The Football Association, Burton Upon Trent, United Kingdom
| | - Stacey Emmonds
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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9
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Rentz LE, Hornsby WG, Gawel WJ, Rawls BG, Ramadan J, Galster SM. Contextual Variation in External and Internal Workloads across the Competitive Season of a Collegiate Women's Soccer Team. Sports (Basel) 2021; 9:sports9120165. [PMID: 34941803 PMCID: PMC8708705 DOI: 10.3390/sports9120165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As sports technology has continued to develop, monitoring athlete workloads, performance, and recovery has demonstrated boundless benefits for athlete and team success. Specifically, technologies such as global positioning systems (GPS) and heart rate (HR) monitors have granted the opportunity to delve deeper into performance contributors, and how variations may exist based upon context. A team of NCAA Division I women’s soccer athletes were monitored during games throughout one competitive season. Individual athlete, positional groups, and team external and internal workloads were explored for differences based upon game location, opponent ranking, game result, and the final score differential. Game location and opponent ranking were found to have no effect on team-wide absolute or relative external workloads, whereas game result and score differential did. Internal workloads across the team tended to only vary by game half, independent of game context; however, the HR of defenders was determined to be higher during losses as compared to wins (p = 0.0256). Notably, the games that resulted in losses also represented the games with the fewest number of substitutions. These findings suggest high value in monitoring performance and workloads that are characteristic of varying, often multifaceted, contexts. It is hoped that this information can lead to more informed approaches to vital game-time and coaching decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Rentz
- Human Performance Innovation Center, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (B.G.R.); (J.R.); (S.M.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - William Guy Hornsby
- College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (W.G.H.); (W.J.G.)
| | - Wesley J. Gawel
- College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (W.G.H.); (W.J.G.)
| | - Bobby G. Rawls
- Human Performance Innovation Center, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (B.G.R.); (J.R.); (S.M.G.)
| | - Jad Ramadan
- Human Performance Innovation Center, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (B.G.R.); (J.R.); (S.M.G.)
| | - Scott M. Galster
- Human Performance Innovation Center, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26505, USA; (B.G.R.); (J.R.); (S.M.G.)
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10
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Guthrie B, Fields JB, Thompson B, Jones MT. Physical Performance Assessments of Strength and Power in Women Collegiate Athletes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXERCISE SCIENCE 2021; 14:984-993. [PMID: 34567381 PMCID: PMC8439680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Limited research exists on physical performance assessments for women collegiate athletes. The current cross-sectional study compared field-based tests of muscular strength and power and investigated their relationship. Sports included field hockey, volleyball, soccer, and softball. Tests of one repetition maximum (1-RM) back squat, 1-RM bench press, vertical jump, and standing long jump were administered. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) assessed differences across sports. Bivariate Pearson correlation coefficients examined relationships among tests. It was hypothesized sports with a higher anaerobic nature (volleyball, softball) would outperform those with higher aerobic nature (field hockey, soccer). Softball had the highest 1-RM bench press and 1-RM back squat (p < 0.001) compared to field hockey, volleyball, and soccer. Further, softball had the highest vertical jump (p < 0.001) compared to field hockey and soccer, but did not differ from volleyball. There were no differences across sports for standing long jump. Correlations (p < 0.001) existed between 1-RM back squat and 1-RM bench press (n = 663, r = 0.56), and vertical jump and standing long jump (n = 160, r = 0.64). Results demonstrate strength and power differences among collegiate women's sports. Softball consistently outperformed others in bench press, back squat, and vertical jump, which may be due to the demand of power embedded in the nature of the sport. These data provide descriptive measures of physical performance assessments and may assist practitioners with goal setting and program design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Guthrie
- Kinesiology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Jennifer B Fields
- Exercise Science and Athletic Training, Springfield College, Springfield, MA, USA
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Brian Thompson
- Exercise Science and Athletic Training, Springfield College, Springfield, MA, USA
| | - Margaret T Jones
- Kinesiology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
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11
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Randell RK, Clifford T, Drust B, Moss SL, Unnithan VB, De Ste Croix MBA, Datson N, Martin D, Mayho H, Carter JM, Rollo I. Physiological Characteristics of Female Soccer Players and Health and Performance Considerations: A Narrative Review. Sports Med 2021; 51:1377-1399. [PMID: 33844195 PMCID: PMC8222040 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-021-01458-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Female soccer has seen a substantial rise in participation, as well as increased financial support from governing bodies over the last decade. Thus, there is an onus on researchers and medical departments to develop a better understanding of the physical characteristics and demands, and the health and performance needs of female soccer players. In this review, we discuss the current research, as well as the knowledge gaps, of six major topics: physical demands, talent identification, body composition, injury risk and prevention, health and nutrition. Data on female talent identification are scarce, and future studies need to elucidate the influence of relative age and maturation selection across age groups. Regarding the physical demands, more research is needed on the pattern of high-intensity sprinting during matches and the contribution of soccer-specific movements. Injuries are not uncommon in female soccer players, but targeting intrinsically modifiable factors with injury prevention programmes can reduce injury rates. The anthropometric and physical characteristics of female players are heterogeneous and setting specific targets should be discouraged in youth and sub-elite players. Menstrual cycle phase may influence performance and injury risk; however, there are few studies in soccer players. Nutrition plays a critical role in health and performance and ensuring adequate energy intake remains a priority. Despite recent progress, there is considerably less research in female than male soccer players. Many gaps in our understanding of how best to develop and manage the health and performance of female soccer players remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K Randell
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, Life Sciences R&D, PepsiCo, Leicester, UK.
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK.
| | - Thomas Clifford
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Barry Drust
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Samantha L Moss
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, Life Sciences R&D, PepsiCo, Leicester, UK
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Chester, Chester, UK
| | - Viswanath B Unnithan
- Institute of Clinical Exercise and Health Science, Division of Sport and Exercise, School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Hamilton, Scotland, UK
| | | | - Naomi Datson
- Institute of Sport, University of Chichester, Chichester, UK
| | - Daniel Martin
- School of Sport and Exercise Science, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
| | - Hannah Mayho
- Sports Science Department, Manchester City Football Club, Manchester, UK
| | - James M Carter
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, Life Sciences R&D, PepsiCo, Leicester, UK
| | - Ian Rollo
- Gatorade Sports Science Institute, Life Sciences R&D, PepsiCo, Leicester, UK
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
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12
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Vescovi JD, Fernandes E, Klas A. Physical Demands of Women's Soccer Matches: A Perspective Across the Developmental Spectrum. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:634696. [PMID: 33937752 PMCID: PMC8085412 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.634696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Female soccer players are exposed to specific physical demands during matches, which vary according to the standard of play. Existing studies have largely focused on quantifying the distances covered for professional and international level players. This approach is limited in scope regarding the broader aspects around physical demands and is detached from development pathway models. An understanding of the demands across all standards will provide valuable insights about appropriate player development and help ensure physical readiness for the demands of the sport. The aim of this perspective paper is to describe the physical demands experienced during women's soccer matches across the developmental spectrum. A combination of evidence from the literature and data from the author's research (JDV) is presented. Specifically highlighted are the trends for locomotor distances, acceleration and deceleration frequency, and metabolic power metrics for youth (≤U17), college (NCAA/U20), professional (domestic) and international standards of women's soccer. In addition, the changes in match demands between levels of play are used to help illustrate gaps that must be overcome in order to successfully achieve physical readiness to compete at higher levels. The evidence demonstrates the importance of training appropriate attributes to prepare female soccer players who are striving to play at progressively higher standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason D. Vescovi
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Graduate School of Exercise Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elton Fernandes
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Graduate School of Exercise Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexander Klas
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Graduate School of Exercise Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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13
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Kupperman N, DeJong AF, Alston P, Hertel J, Saliba SA. Athlete Workloads During Collegiate Women's Soccer Practice: Implications for Return to Play. J Athl Train 2021; 56:321-330. [PMID: 33150376 DOI: 10.4085/205-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Athlete monitoring via wearable technology is often used in soccer athletes. Although researchers have tracked global outcomes across soccer seasons, little information exists on athlete loads during individual practice drills. Understanding these demands is important for athletic trainers in making decisions about return to play. OBJECTIVE To provide descriptive information on total distance, total player load (PL), total distance per minute, and PL per minute for practice drill structures and game play by player position among female soccer athletes across a competitive season. DESIGN Retrospective observational study. SETTING National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I university. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 32 female collegiate soccer players (age = 20 ± 1 years, height = 168.75 ± 4.28 cm). INTERVENTION(S) Athletes wore a single global positioning system and triaxial accelerometer unit during all practices and games in a single soccer season. Individual practice drills were labeled by the team's strength and conditioning coach and binned into physical, technical and tactical skills and large- and small-sided competition drill structures. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Descriptive analyses were used to assess the median total distance, total PL, total distance per minute, and PL per minute by drill structure and player position (defender, forward or striker, and midfielder) during practices and games. RESULTS Large- and small-sided competition drills imposed the greatest percentage of workload across all measures for each position (approximately 20% of total practice), followed by physical drills. When comparing technical and tactical skills drills, we found that technical skills drills required athletes to cover a greater distance (approximately 17% for technical skills and 15% for tactical skills), and tactical skills drills required higher play intensity during practices across all positions (approximately 18% for technical skills and 13% for tactical skills). Defenders had the highest median PL outcomes of all positions during practices. CONCLUSIONS Different practice drill types imposed various levels of demands, which simulated game play, on female soccer athletes. Athletic trainers and other clinicians may use this information in formulating objective return-to-play guidelines for injured collegiate women's soccer players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Kupperman
- Exercise and Sports Injury Lab, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | | | - Peter Alston
- Exercise and Sports Injury Lab, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Jay Hertel
- Exercise and Sports Injury Lab, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
| | - Susan A Saliba
- Exercise and Sports Injury Lab, University of Virginia, Charlottesville
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14
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Jagim AR, Murphy J, Schaefer AQ, Askow AT, Luedke JA, Erickson JL, Jones MT. Match Demands of Women's Collegiate Soccer. Sports (Basel) 2020; 8:E87. [PMID: 32545603 PMCID: PMC7353669 DOI: 10.3390/sports8060087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Research describing the match and specific positional demands during match play in women's collegiate soccer is limited. The purpose of the study was to quantify the match demands of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III soccer and assess position differences in movement kinematics, heart rate (HR), and energy expenditure. Twenty-five Division III women soccer players (height: 1.61 ± 0.3 m; body mass: 66.7 ± 7.5 kg; fat-free mass: 50.3 ± 6.5 kg; body fat%: 25.6 ± 5.1%) were equipped with a wearable global positioning system to assess the demands of 22 matches throughout a season. Players were categorized by position (goal keepers (GK), center defenders (CB), flank players (FP), forwards (F), and center midfielders (CM)). Players covered 9807 ± 2588 m and 1019 ± 552 m at high speeds (>249.6 m·m-1), with an overall average speed of 62.85 ± 14.7 m·m-1. This resulted in a mean HR of 74.2 ± 6% HR max and energy expenditure of 1259 ± 309 kcal. Significant and meaningful differences in movement kinematics were observed across position groups. CM covered the most distance resulting in the highest training load. FP covered the most distance at high speeds and mean HR values were highest in CM, CB, and FP positions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R. Jagim
- Sports Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Onalaska, WI 54650, USA;
- Exercise & Sport Science, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA; (J.M.); (A.Q.S.); (J.A.L.)
| | - Jason Murphy
- Exercise & Sport Science, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA; (J.M.); (A.Q.S.); (J.A.L.)
| | - Alexis Q. Schaefer
- Exercise & Sport Science, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA; (J.M.); (A.Q.S.); (J.A.L.)
| | - Andrew T. Askow
- Department of Kinesiology and Community Health, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA;
| | - Joel A. Luedke
- Exercise & Sport Science, University of Wisconsin—La Crosse, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA; (J.M.); (A.Q.S.); (J.A.L.)
| | - Jacob L. Erickson
- Sports Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Onalaska, WI 54650, USA;
| | - Margaret T. Jones
- School of Kinesiology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA 22030, USA;
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