Search

Female football has had a considerable rise in popularity with millions of fans after matches during the recent Women's World Cup. Despite this, the football scientific literature is still biased toward male footballers; therefore, this review aims to present the most recent literature and best practices for assessing linear and multidirectional speed and underpinning physical qualities, and to offer practical recommendations based on the most recent evidence and authors' expertise for practitioners working with female football players. This review categorizes tests as on-field and off-field, highlighting common protocols, their advantages, and the existing limitations. Among the most common on-field tests, we found the change of direction speed, horizontal deceleration, linear sprinting, and curved sprinting; although the suggested off-field tests are multi-joint isometric, single-joint isometric, isokinetic dynamometry, Nordic hamstring, and vertical jumps. These tests are valuable tools for assessing players' physical abilities, serving as a benchmark for tracking physical changes throughout the season, and aiding practitioners in individualizing and optimizing training protocols. This review highlights that strength (eccentric, isometric, concentric, and reactive) and rapid force production are crucial for generating braking and propulsive forces, which underpin linear and multidirectional motion. In conclusion, the evidence and practical suggestions reported in this review will improve the practitioners' knowledge of which tests and the consequent training protocols can be used in senior and elite female football players. But practitioners need to be aware about the scarcity of comprehensive studies on female soccer that hinders a complete understanding of the reliability of all assessment protocols used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose: The objective of the present manuscript was to analyse the flow of play in high-level women’s volleyball by sequencing game complexes per set. Methods: The sample analysed 135 matches played in the 2021/2022 Brazilian Women’s Superliga, with the number of matches analysed ranging from 14 and 25 matches for all teams participating in the championship. Eigenvector Centrality and Social Network Analysis conducted the connectivity and specificity of relationships as, and inferential analysis was performed using the chi-square test with a Monte Carlo correction. Results: The results showed that the highest eigenvalues were for the continuity effect, except for complex 0. Regarding the continuity effect, the eigenvalues in the first four sets were higher for complexes III, IV, and V. In the fifth set, the highest eigenvalues were close between complexes II, III, IV, and V for the continuity effect. Furthermore, the results indicated that there was no association between the sequencing of game complexes and the set played (χ²= 2470.01 and Φ= 0.34, p = 0.272), nor between the number of complexes and the set played (χ²= 17.63 and Φ= 0.03, p = 0.346). Conclusions: In conclusion, women’s volleyball presents gameplay strategies to sustain play, promoting game continuity, regardless of the set played. The number of game complexes required to secure a point varies between two and three game complexes. Coaches should consider the dynamics in women’s volleyball matches, preparing teams for less risky and more continuous play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Medicine & Science of Physical Activity & Sport / Revista Internacional de Medicina y Ciencias de la Actividad Física y del Deporte is the property of Revista Internacional de Medicina y Ciencias de la Actividad Fisica y del Deporte and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the physical capabilities of young soccer players and their performance in game-related variables as assessed through the Nomination Scale for Identifying Football Talent (NSIFT) questionnaire. A total of 80 young soccer players, with an average age of 10.70 ± 1.02 years, participated in the research. Each player underwent a comprehensive assessment session that included the 5-0-5 Change of Direction (COD) test, the Illinois Agility Test, and the Countermovement Jump (CMJ) test. These assessments were selected to evaluate critical physical attributes essential for soccer performance such as agility, explosive strength, and the ability to change direction rapidly. To analyze the data, Principal Component Analysis (PCA), a statistical technique that reduces the dimensionality of large datasets while retaining as much variance as possible, was employed. The PCA results indicated strong sample validity as confirmed by the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) measurement index, which assesses the adequacy of the sample size for factor analysis. The analysis revealed two principal components: development and disposition, which together accounted for 73% of the total variance in the data. The development component encompasses various physical attributes that contribute to a player's growth and improvement, including strength, speed, and agility. Conversely, the disposition component reflects innate qualities and cognitive skills that predispose players to excel in soccer such as decision making and game awareness. This research highlights the importance of incorporating physical assessments into talent identification processes, providing objective measures that complement subjective evaluations. This study contributed to the literature on talent identification in soccer, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach to nurture young athletes effectively. Future research should continue to explore the interplay between physical and cognitive skills in soccer to enhance player development and success in competitive environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined relationships among players’ physical characteristics, match external loads, and heart rate recovery (HRR) during match substitutions in a congested fixture of an overseas futsal training camp. Eleven under-20 national futsal players’ anthropometric characteristics (age, body height, body mass, % fat, and % muscle) and physical fitness [HRmax, VO2max, maximal aerobic speed (MAS) during the 30–15 intermittent fitness test (IFT)] were determined. Additionally, locomotion profiles during field play and HRR sitting on the bench were recorded during five matches. A repeated-measures analysis of variance and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used for statistical analysis. The results revealed that the overall observed correlations among anthropometry, body composition, physical fitness, and HRR were inconsistent across all the matches and substitutions. However, the numbers of moderate (1.00–1.99 m/s²), moderate-to-high (2.00–2.99 m/s²), and high (3.00–50.00 m/s²) intensities of acceleration presented negative correlations in the last match (r < −0.76; p < 0.05). HRR during match substitutions may have been influenced by uncontrolled factors across all the match play and recovery. HRR measures may be affected mainly by fatigue caused by the accumulation of accelerations throughout a congested fixture during a congested-schedule of a futsal training camp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specific physical qualities such as sprint running, change-of-direction or jump height are determinants of sports performance. Photocell systems are practical and easy to use systems to assess the time from point A to point B. In addition, these photoelectric systems are also used to obtain the time of vertically displaced movements. Knowing the accuracy and precision of photocell timing can be a determinant of ensuring a higher quality interpretation of results and of selecting the most appropriate devices for specific objectives. This systematic review aimed to identify and summarize studies that have examined the validity and reliability of photocells in sport sciences. A systematic review of PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. From the 164 studies initially identified, 16 were fully reviewed, and their outcome measures were extracted and analyzed. Photocells appear to have a strong agreement with force plates (gold standard), but are not interchangeable to measure the vertical jump. For monitoring horizontal displacement, double beam systems, compared to single beam systems, are more valid and reliable when it comes to avoiding false triggers caused by swinging arms or legs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of the study were to examine the incident rate (IR), characteristics, and mechanisms of muscle injuries of 121 men amateur soccer players that voluntarily participated in this project. Sixty-five muscle injuries with an overall IR of 3.62/1000 h, 95% CI 2.7–4.5, were reported. The most frequently injured muscle groups were the hamstrings (IR 1.78/1000 h, 95% CI 1.1–2.3), followed by the adductors (IR 1.5/1000 h, 95% CI 0.93–2.06). Most muscle injuries were characterized as mild (IR 2.3/1000 h, 95% CI 1.53–2.92) or minimal (IR 1.28/1000 h, 95% CI 1.16–2.39. Higher incidence of injury sustained during matches (IR 14.09 injuries/1000 h, 95% CI 9.49–18.7), than in training (IR 1.88 injuries/1000 h, 95% CI 1.19–2.56). The most frequent injury mechanisms were high-speed running (84.4%) and change of direction (44.4%), for hamstring and adductors-related groin injuries, respectively. Players aged over 24 years had a 7-fold increased risk to sustain a hamstring injury but a lower risk to sustain an adductor-related groin injury. Injury prevention and rehabilitation management strategies may reduce muscle injury rates in amateur soccer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate an acute effect of foam rolling and tissue flossing of the Triceps Surae muscle on Achilles tendon stiffness, jump height and sprint performance at different time points. The participants were academic athletes (n = 32) aged between 22 and 24 years; randomly allocated into two groups: foam rolling (ROLL) and tissue flossing (FLOSS). The participants were tested at baseline and 5-min, 15-min, 30-min, 45-min, and 60-min after ROLL and FLOSS for Achilles tendon stiffness (ATstiffeness) at three reference locations: (1) tendon's origin, (2) ankle joint height and (3) intermuscular septum of the gastronomies muscle; countermovement jump (CMJ); and sprint performance at 15-m (SPRINT15 m). The analysis of stiffness revealed a significant decrease in ATstiffness from baseline to Post-60 (p ≤ 0.001) for three locations in the FLOSS group (p ≤ 0.001). In FLOSS, a significant increase was observed from Post-15 to Post-60 (all p≤0.001) in CMJ. We found also a significant decrease in SPRINT15 m in FLOSS in all-time points (p ≤ 0.001), however, SPRINT15 m decreased in Post-5 min, Post-15 min, and Post-30 min (p ≤ 0.001 for all) in ROLL. The current study suggested that both groups enhanced performance up to 60 min after the intervention, caused by mitigating excessive stiffness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the effects of with (WC) or without conducting a warm up on youth soccer players immediately before performing physical and cognitive tests. Fourteen youth soccer player (age 11.64 ± 0.50) participated in a counterbalanced cross-sectional study in which three conditions were tested: (a) basal lineal condition; (b) WC (immediately before the physical and cognitive tests); and (c) without WC (passive resting for 15 min between the warm-up and physical and cognitive tests). A 30-m sprint test, countermovement jump, and psychomotor vigilance task were also applied. The WC revealed significant improvements in countermovement jump (p < .05), 30-m sprint test performance (p < .05), and reaction time in psychomotor vigilance task (p < .05) in comparison to basal lineal condition and without WC. A 15-min rest after a warm-up has a meaningfully decremental effect on the physical and cognitive readiness of youth soccer players, in comparison with when they warm-up immediately before the demands are imposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Abundant studies have pointed out that perfectionism and passion are interrelated and that they both can influence performance in a variety of contexts, including sports, however, research on how these variables interact and might affect performance in team sports, such as soccer, is still scarce. The aim of this study is to analyze differences in perfectionism and passion between under-23 years-old (U23) and older semi-professional soccer players, as well as to study the possible relationship between these two psychological variables. Methods: Participants (N = 130 healthy semi-professional Spanish soccer players) were divided into two equivalent groups according to the participants age, U23 (N = 65; 21.58 ± 1.91 years) and older than 24 years (N = 65; 30.03 ± 3.72 years) and completed self-reports on perfectionism and passion. Results: Independent samples t-test determined significant differences between the U23 Group and the >24 Group in perfectionism global score and concern over mistakes (maladaptive perfectionism), and in time, value, and passion. Multiple regression analyses revealed that obsessive passion predicted maladaptive subdimensions of perfectionism, while harmonious passion predicted adaptive perfectionism. Discussion: U23 soccer players show higher levels of maladaptive perfectionism, time, value, and passion in relation with soccer than older players, probably because at this stage pressure to become professionals and to develop their technical, tactical, and physical skills is higher than in later stages. Conclusion: Identifying differences between different age groups can help professionals in tailoring their interventions and strategies to address the specific needs of athletes at different stages of development more effectively, and to optimize mental focus, reduce stress, to promote a healthy mindset for optimal performance in soccer players, furthermore, the study of moderating effects of factors such as team dynamics or coaching styles on these constructs is advised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soccer is the world's most popular sport for both men and women. Tests of athletic and functional performance are commonly used to assess physical ability and set performance goals. The Functional Movement Screen (FMSTM) is a widely used seven-test battery developed by practitioners to provide interpretable measure of movement quality. The main objective of the present study was twofold, to analyze the relationship between FMSTM results from male and female soccer players and to compare their physical performance in different tests. Methods: A total of twenty-eight semi-professional soccer players: fourteen male (age: 21.29 ± 1.64 years; weight: 70.66 ± 5.29 kg; height: 171.86 ± 5.35 cm; BMI: 20.90 ± 2.22 kg/m²) and fourteen females (age: 20.64 ± 1.98 years; weight: 63.44 ± 5.83 kg; height: 166.21 ± 12.18 cm; BMI: 23.02 ± 2.50 kg/m²) were recruited for this study. A paired sample t-test was used for determining differences as a repeated measures analysis. All the participants conducted the following tests: The Functional Movement Test (FMS™), 10-m linear sprint, 5-0-5 COD Test and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test--Level 1 (YYIRT Level 1). Results: A t-test with data from 505 COD (change of direction) test showed significant differences between groups, p = 0.001, d = 1.11, revealing faster times in male soccer players (2.50 ± 0.19) in respect with female soccer players (2.70 ± 0.17). Crucially, a t-test with data from FMS did not reveal significant differences between groups. Multiple regression for V02max revealed significant effects (r = 0.55, r² = 0.30, adjusted r² = 0.24, F = 5.21, p = 0.04 and standard error = 2.20). On the other hand, multiple regression for 10-m sprint showed significant effects (r = 0.58, r² = 0.33, adjusted r² = 0.28, F = 5.98, p = 0.03). The impact of these factors on the correlation between FMSTM scores and physical performance measures can vary among individuals. Discussion/Conclusion: This study demonstrates the necessity of utilizing and applying multiple field-based tests to evaluate the movement and capabilities of physical performance in sports. Crucially, consider individual variations and factors such as training background, fitness level, and sport-specific demands when interpreting the relationship between the FMS℄ and physical performance in both sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muscle strength and balance ability have been related to injury prevention and game actions performance in football. The aims of this study are twofold: (1) to examine bilateral asymmetries in isokinetic strength and balance assessments, and (2) to evaluate the relationship between muscle strength and balance measures. Eighty-eight male adolescent football players were assessed for body composition (InBody 770), isokinetic strength (Biodex System 4 Pro Dynamometer), and balance performance (Biodex Balance System). Paired samples t-tests were conducted to determine bilateral differences in strength and balance. Pearson correlations and multiple linear regression analyses evaluated the relationship between strength and balance. No significant bilateral strength differences were observed in knee flexors (KF) and knee extensors (KE) peak torque (PT) scores. No bilateral differences were found for balance measures, except in the lateromedial stability index, which was better while performing with the preferred leg (p ≤ 0.01; d = 0.29). Significant correlations were found between KE PT and balance tasks (p ≤ 0.01). KF and KE PT shared between 18 and 22% of the common variance in the overall stability index in the non-preferred and preferred leg, respectively. Monitoring strategies of bilateral asymmetries may be crucial to enhance performance in tasks underpinned by unilateral movements, such as changes of direction and sprints, and to identify players at risk of injury. Adopting these strategies during the early stages of football training might be crucial for players' long-term development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The present study constitutes a comprehensive bibliometric analysis aimed at evaluating both the quantity and quality of scientific output pertaining to small-sided games (SSGs). This analysis employs science mapping techniques to explore networks and clusters within publications, authors, and keywords associated with the SSG field. Methods. The process of identifying relevant studies involved a rigorous search across reputable databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (Core Collection). Inclusion criteria stipulated that studies must primarily focus on SSGs, with explicit references to SSGs or synonymous terms in the title or abstract. Results. Out of 3,125 initially retrieved titles, 1,084 met these criteria and were included. When considering five-year intervals, the average number of annual publications from 2019 to 2023 stood at 122.2. It is noteworthy that, in the last five years (2019-2023), a total of 34 reviews were published. Additionally, there is an increasing prevalence of keywords related to soccer, athletic performance, global positioning systems and their associated metrics, as well as terms associated with tactical behaviour, validity, and reliability. Conclusions. The bibliometric analysis revealed that the majority of studies in this field have predominantly focused on training load monitoring, particularly concerning acute effects and with a strong emphasis on soccer. Future research directions should aim to address existing imbalances, including the incorporation of more experimental randomised controlled studies, a broader range of sports, and the inclusion of female participants. Additionally, mixed-methodological approaches should be encouraged to enhance the depth and breadth of the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of the present study was to analyse the within-week variations according to the internal (rate of perceived exertion [RPE], and session-RPE) and external (jump height average, minimum jump, maximal jump, range of jump, number of jumps and density) intensity. Methods. Twelve male elite/international volleyball athletes from the Portuguese 1st division (age: 21.7 ± 4.19 years of age; experience: 6.2 ± 3.8 years; body mass: 85.7 ± 8.69 kg; height: 192.4 ± 6.25 cm; body mass index: 23.1 ± 1.40 kg/m2) participated in this study. The players were monitored over 26 microcycles, 101 training sessions, and 20 matches. To assess the workload, the CR10 Borg scale and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) were used. Results. According to the internal workload, RPE revealed significant differences between MD-4 and MD-2, MD-4 and MD1, MD-3 and MD-1, and MD-2 and MD-1 (p < 0.05). In the same line, session RPE showed significant differences between MD-4 and MD-2, MD-4 and MD-1, MD-3 and MD-2, MD-3 and MD-1, and MD-2 and MD-1 (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the external load demands revealed statistical differences regarding the number of jumps (MD-4 and MD-2, MD-4 and MD-1, MD-3 and MD-1, and MD-2 and MD-1) and the density of the training sessions (MD-4 and MD-1, and MD-2 and MD-1). Conclusions. The primary findings of this study suggest that higher-intensity training sessions tend to occur during the middle of the week, with a tapering effect observed as the competition date approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared the sensitivity of peak running speed (PRS) measured during a submaximal run test (SRT) with a countermovement jump (CMJ) test to provide an alternate method of measuring neuromuscular fatigue (NMF). The study involved 20 semi-professional academy soccer players who performed a SRT and CMJ test, 24-hours pre-match, 24-, 48-, 72- and 96-hours post-match. Moderate decreases (effect-size (ES) ± 90% confidence intervals) were observed 24-hours post-match for CMJH; ES −0.70 ± 0.19, CMJPV; ES −0.92 ± 0.27 and PRS; ES −0.58 ± 0.11 with small decreases in CMJH; ES −0.36 ± 0.13 and PRS; ES −0.27 ± 0.23 still evident 48-hours post-match before returning to baseline 72-hours post-match. The results confirm PRS as an inexpensive alternate method of measuring NMF which, allows instantaneous real-time feedback on NMF. This can allow changes to be made immediately on-field within the post-match recovery phase without the need for further analysis or equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of this study was 2-fold: (1) to analyse the variations of countermovement jump (CMJ) performance over the different periods of the season (early-, mid-, and end-season) and (2) to analyse the correlations between CMJ performance and wellness variables over season periods. Methods. Overall, 10 elite young male freestyle wrestlers (aged 16.0 ± 0.7 years) participated in this study during the 32 weeks of the season. Neuromuscular performance was analysed via a CMJ protocol and well-being variables were monitored by using the Hooper index questionnaire. Repeated measures analysis of variance with eventual Bonferroni post-hoc test was applied to investigate the differences between season periods within weeks. Results. There were no significant changes of neuromuscular performance throughout the season, which suggests the absence of neuromuscular fatigue. No relationships were found between CMJ performance and any single well-being variable. In turn, a small association was observed between weekly Hooper index and neuromuscular status early in the season (correlation coefficient: 0.20, p = 0.044). Conclusions. Using the sum of all well-being variables instead of the single variables may be better to track possible neuromuscular status variations in wrestling athletes, particularly early in the season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Purpose. The study compared the change-of-direction deficit (CODD) using the first 10-m sprint of a 40-m sprint test (CODDoriginal), the 10-m time that precedes the 5-0-5 test (CODD5-0-5start), and the best 10-m split of a 40-m sprint test (CODDbest). Results. The time over 10 m during the 30-40-m split of a 40-m sprint test was significantly shorter than the first 10 m of the same sprint test (best times: p < 0.001, d = -7.077; average time: p < 0.001, d = -1.140) and the first 10-m acceleration phase of the 5-0-5 test (best times: p < 0.001, d = 9.000; average times: p < 0.001, d = -8.500). No significant differences were found between the first 10 m of the 40-m sprint test and the 5-0-5 test (best times: p > 0.999, d = 0.133; average times: p = 0.990, d = 0.047). Comparisons of CODD revealed significant differences between approaches (best times: F = 201.7, p < 0.001, p 2 = 0.914; average times: F = 196.2, p < 0.001, p 2 = 0.912). However, there were no significant correlations between any CODD outcomes and the 40-m sprint test (p > 0.05). Conclusions. CODD calculated with the first 10 m and the best 10 m of a sprint test was significantly different; similarities existed between the initial 10 m of a 40-m sprint test and the 5-0-5 test. Therefore, to save time and resources, practitioners could use the first 10-m acceleration phase of the 5-0-5 since no significant differences were found between the initial 10 m of a linear sprint test. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of this study was to characterize and compare the motor competence and physical fitness in dancers of different styles considering age, body mass index, and physical activity level (min/week). Methods. Overall, 17 female dancers aged 13-31 years (18.00 ± 4.80) participated in this study. The sample was divided into 2 groups: (1) dancers who practised up to 3 styles (n = 10); (2) dancers who practised 4 or more styles (n = 7). The Fit School and Motor Competence Assessment test batteries were applied to analyse physical fitness and motor competence, respectively. All variables were tested for normal distribution by using the Shapiro-Wilk test. For continuous variables, the t-test was used and for nominal variables, the chi-square test was employed. For those that did not follow normal distribution, the Mann-Whitney U-test was applied. Results. For either motor competence or physical fitness, the number of dance styles did not exert any influence. Furthermore, no significant differences were found for between-group comparisons. Conclusions. The total group fell within the average reference values in all the physical fitness tests, with the exception of the 20-m multistage maximum shuttle run test. With regard to the number of dance styles practised, no differences between groups were observed for either motor competence or physical fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. This study compares the physiological demands of 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (30-15IFT), Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YYIRT), and VAMEVAL test as related to training and match demands among youth soccer players. Methods. Overall, 12 under-19 male soccer players (18.21 ± 0.34 years old) were monitored over 3 consecutive weeks for heart rate (HR) responses during training sessions and matches. During this period, they were assessed with 30-15IFT, YYIRT, and VAMEVAL. The measures were taken on the same day of the week to ensure replicable conditions between the tests. Results. The Friedman test revealed significant differences in the average HR (p = 0.006), time in HR zone 3 (p < 0.001), and time in HR zone 4 (p = 0.039) between the tests. Considering the representativeness of the tests in comparison with training sessions and matches, both 30-15IFT and VAMEVAL corresponded to 48% and 46% of the training session load 3 days before the match day (936 ± 447 s) and on the match day (831 ± 533 s), respectively. Conclusions. YYIRT imposed greater time exposure to high HR intensities (in the zones of 80-100% of HR maximum) than VAMEVAL and 30-15IFT. Moreover, the multistage fitness tests corresponded to slightly more than half of the time in which a player was exposed to 80% and 100% of HR maximum during a regular training session and match day. These findings may assist coaches in understanding how to incorporate intermittent fitness tests within training in order to accurately replicate HR responses of match conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The study aim was 2-fold: (i) characterize and compare the locomotor demands of 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test (30-15IFT), Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test level 1 (YYIRT), and VAMEVAL test; (ii) compare the locomotor demands of these progressive multistage tests with those of training sessions and matches in youth soccer players. Methods. A descriptive case study lasting 3 weeks was performed to implement the tests once and to monitor the locomotor demands in training sessions and matches. Overall, 12 soccer players (age: 18.21 ± 0.34 years) from the same team participated after consideration of inclusion criteria. A Global Positioning System unit was used for each player over the training sessions, matches, and multistage tests to monitor locomotor demands. The following outcomes were extracted: total distance; peak speed; distances covered at 3.00-6.99 km/h (Z1), 7.00-10.99 km/h (Z2), 11.00-14.99 km/h (Z3), 15.00-18.99 km/h (Z4), and 19.00 km/h (Z5); accelerations at 0.50 to 0.99 m/s2 and 1.00 to 1.99 m/s2; and decelerations at -0.99 to -0.50 m/s2 and -1.99 to -1.00 m/s2. Results. Significant differences between progressive multistage tests were found in total distance (p = 0.028); distances covered at Z1 (p < 0.001), Z2 (p < 0.001), Z3 (p < 0.001), Z4 (p = 0.009), and Z5 (p = 0.044); accelerations at 0.50 to 0.99 m/s2 (p < 0.001) and 1.00 to 1.99 m/s2 (p < 0.001); and decelerations at -0.99 to -0.50 m/s2 (p < 0.001) and -1.99 to -1.00 m/s2 (p < 0.001). The total distance of the 3 progressive multistage tests may vary between 39% and 49% of a middle training session (match-day 3). However, as for intense locomotor demands at distance covered at Z4, 2 of the field-based tests exceeded a typical match-day 3 between 308 m (+83%) in 30-15IFT and 112 m (+30%) in YYIRT. Conclusions. The results suggests that 30-15IFT is more demanding considering high-intensity locomotor activities, while YYIRT and VAMEVAL are more demanding considering moderate locomotor demands. Moreover, specific adjustments in training sessions must be conducted, especially when introducing 30-15IFT and YYIRT since they may exceed the typical doses of distances covered at 11.00-14.99 km/h and 15.00-18.99 km/h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a holistic framework for the development of the technical, tactical, and fitness capacities required in soccer. It summarizes and organizes the main tactical and technical characteristics and the common physical demands of the game in accordance with different playing positions. Moreover, the typical fitness values found by playing positions are reviewed. A theoretical framework for a more individualized and specific training that integrates technical and tactical dimensions as well as fitness dimensions is proposed. Thus, through the identification of the main moments in a football game, a profile characterization of the contents for each capacity in each moment for all playing positions is presented and described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inertial measurement units (IMUs) have been extensively used for measuring human motion. One particular outcome of interest in sports is vertical jump height, which is assessed in specific performance tests or actions occurring in training or match scenarios. This systematic review aimed to (1) identify and summarize studies that have examined the validity of wearable wireless IMUs for measuring jump height and (2) identify and summarize studies that have examined the reliability of wearable wireless IMUs for measuring jump height. A systematic review of the Cochrane Library, EBSCO, PubMed, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science databases was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. From the 596 studies initially identified, 30 were fully reviewed, and their outcome measures were extracted and analysed. Among the 16 different IMU models, 15 were considered valid, with only one device not validated. Of the 7 IMUs that were tested for reliability, all were considered reliable for measuring jump height. In general, however, despite these findings, IMUs are not considered accurate enough to detect small changes in performance. Also, generalizations were not possible for athletic populations given the lack of studies with such samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Adolescence is one of the stages where a large number of physical, psychological and emotional changes occur, the latter playing a key role in adherence to a healthy dietary pattern. Taking into account the above, this research reflects the objectives of developing an explanatory model of the incidence of attention, clarity and emotional repair on adherence to the Mediterranean diet and to contrast the structural model through a multigroup analysis based on Mediterranean adherence to this dietary pattern. Methods. To this end, a comparative descriptive cross-sectional study has been carried out with 293 students from the third cycle of primary education. The instruments used were a sociodemographic questionnaire, the KIDMED test and the Trait Meta-Mood Scale (TMMS-24). Results. Students who show low adherence to the Mediterranean diet have a negative association with the repair of negative emotions. Participants who show a medium adherence to the Mediterranean diet, it is observed that they have a negative relationship with emotional clarity, while students who claim to have a high adherence to the Mediterranean diet show positive relationships with each of the constructs that make up emotional intelligence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring a Soccer's load impact is essential for sporting performance. There are numerous methods of quantifying training load, both for internal and external loading is a key factor to improve the performance of soccer player. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no previous studies investigating soccer wellness with questionnaires at least in young soccer player and in a championship of four continuous days. This study aimed to explore the wellness of young soccer players during the final phase of an autonomic championship. A total of 18 U14 young, male soccer players of Andalusian autonomic soccer team aged 13.11 ± 0.32 years old agreed to participate. All the players performed the wellness questionnaire three hours before the match during four continuous days. Repeated measures ANOVAs showed significant different during the championship in Sleep quality (p=0.01), stress (p=0.01), and Fatigue (p=0.04). Positive moderate correlations were found between percentage of change of Sleep Quality and percentage of change of Stress (r=.48, p=.047). In addition, multilinear regression analysis revealed that percentage of change of sleep quality was a predictor of the percentage of change of stress, F (1.15) = 4.69, p = 0.04, r = 0.48, r2 = 0.23, adjusted r = 0.18, SE= 0.22. Sleep quality, psychological stress, and fatigue are sensible variables to young players' exposure to congested fixture calendars such as tournaments. In addition, sleep quality is useful to predict players' stress. Therefore, coaches from teams in formation should use wellness questionnaire to take decisions in load progression previous to the tournaments, or team line up and substitutions during them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The aim of this systematic review with meta-analysis was to assess the effects of recreational soccer on fat mass in untrained sedentary adults. Methods. The following databases were searched: Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and PubMed. The inclusion criteria were: (i) sedentary adult population not restricted to sex, clinical condition; (ii) exposure to intervention programs based on soccer; (iii) intervention groups compared with passive or active (not related with soccer) control groups; (iv) fat mass (indirectly or directly measured); (v) randomized controlled trials. The database search initially yielded 4565 titles. From those, 22 articles were eligible for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The age of the included population varied from 20 to 68 years. Results. No significant differences in fat mass changes were found between recreational soccer groups and active controls (ES = –0.070, trivial; 95% CI: –0.28 to 0.14; p = 0.505; I² = 0.0%; Egger’s test p = 0.986). However, significant changes in fat mass were observed between recreational soccer groups and passive controls (ES = –0.43, small; 95% CI: –0.59 to –0.27; p < 0.001; I² = 35.0%; Egger’s test p = 0.652). Conclusions. Regular participation in recreational soccer is as effective as participation in analytical exercise approaches such as continuous running to produce significant fat mass reductions in untrained sedentary populations, independently of sex and clinical condition. However, recreational soccer arouses a greater interest as it has the advantage of increasing the motivation to maintain participation in an active lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The study investigated the effect of active recovery (AR) and cold-water immersion (CWI) recovery strategies on the speed of recovery after small-sided games (SSGs) in soccer players. Methods. A crossover design was employed to divide 24 male soccer players from a first division Iranian National League (age: 22.3 ± 2.6 years) into 4 experimental conditions: active-active, active-CWI, CWI-active, and CWI-CWI. Heart rate (HR) variations (standard deviation of normal R-R intervals [SDNN], log-transformed root mean square of successive R-R intervals [lnRMSSD]) and self-reported indices (Hooper questionnaire and rate of perceived exertion [RPE]) were measured. Twenty-four hours after SSGs, the players performed one of the recovery strategies. Forty-eight hours after the session, they completed a 20-m sprint test; changes were compared with baseline. Results. A significant difference in SDNN HR variations between AR and CWI recovery strategies (F = 4.86, p = 0.03, η² = 0.31) was noted. Regarding within-experimental condition changes (F = 60.82, p = 0.001, η² = 0.85), significant differences were detected when comparing data recorded before SSGs and immediately after SSGs (p = 0.001), as well as for data recorded before SSGs and immediately after recovery (p = 0.001). There was also a significant difference in lnRMSSD HR variations when AR and CWI were compared (F = 2.41, p = 0.033, η² = 0.29). Within-experimental condition changes (F = 127.9, p = 0.001, η² = 0.74) indicated significant differences between data recorded before SSGs and immediately after SSGs (p = 0.001), as well as between data recorded before SSGs and immediately after recovery (p = 0.001). No significant difference was found between the SDNN index of HR variability for different recoveries (p = 0.055, η² = 0.07). Moreover, no significant differences were noted between recovery strategies in terms of Hooper index (p = 0.832, 2 = 0.11), RPE (p = 0.41, η² = 0.06), or 20-m sprint test (p = 0.78, η² = 0.02). Conclusions. CWI showed a greater effect than AR in restoring the impaired vagal-related HR variability indices observed immediately after SSGs. However, no advantage was observed between the recovery strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To compare the duration of exercise and magnitude of external load per type of exercise (warm-up, small-sided games, position games - movements with/without ball but without the dynamics of a real game, simulations of real games - 11 vs. 11, fitness exercises, large-sided games, technical drills) during different training days in professional soccer players and test the relationships between duration of exercise and the external load. Methods. Overall, 22 professional soccer players (25.1 ± 2.9 years, 181.9 ± 6.3 cm, 73.1 ± 6.3 kg) were daily monitored by a microelectromechanical system. The training duration (minutes) and the external load measures of total distance covered and high-speed running distance were collected for each type of exercise. Results. Repeated measures ANOVA revealed significant differences in training duration, total distance covered, and high-speed running distance between the exercises (p < 0.001). A greater total distance was covered in simulations of real games (2321 m/session), as well as high-speed running (84.6 m/session). The total distance covered in simulations of real games was greater by 77% than in small-sided games, while that in high-speed running in simulations of real games was greater by 153% than in large-sided games. Conclusions. The study revealed that simulations of real games and position games were the exercises that occupied the most time in the sessions and that the simulations of real games were the greatest contributor to distance covered and distance covered at high-speed running. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stretching is usually used as part of rehabilitation protocols for groin pain or injury, but its specific contribution to and within multimodal recovery protocols is unclear. Our goal was to systematically review the effects of stretching for the recovery from groin pain or injury. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, with eligibility criteria defined according to PICOS: (Participants) athletes with groin pain or injuries; (Interventions) interventions with stretching as the differentiating factor; (Comparators) comparators not applying stretching; (Outcomes) symptom remission or improvement and/or time to return to sport and/or return to play; (Study design) randomized controlled trials. Searches were performed on 26 March 2021, in CINAHL, Cochrane Library, EBSCO, EMBASE, PEDro, PubMed, Scielo, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, andWeb of Science, with no limitations regarding language or date, and no filters. Of 117 retrieved results, 65 were duplicates and 49 were excluded at the screening stage. The three articles eligible for full-text analysis failed to comply with one or more inclusion criteria (participants, intervention and/or comparators). We then went beyond the protocol and searched for non-randomized trials and case series, but no intervention was found where stretching was the differentiating factor. We found no trials specifically assessing the effects of stretching on recovery or improvement of groin pain or injury in athletes. Currently, the efficacy of these interventions is unknown, and more research is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]