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Quantifying the pre-season workload of professional Rugby Union players, in relation to their respective positions not only provides crucial insights into their physical demands and training needs but also underscores the significance of the acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR) in assessing workload. However, given the diversity in ACWR calculation methods, their applicability requires further exploration. As a result, this study aims to analyze the workload depending on the player's positions and to compare three ACWR calculation methods. Fifty-seven players were categorized into five groups based on their playing positions: tight five (T5), third-row (3R), number nine (N9), center, and third line defense (3L). The coupled and uncoupled rolling averages (RA), as well as the exponentially weighted moving average ACWR method, were employed to compute measures derived from GPS data. Changes throughout the pre-season were assessed using the one-way and two-way analysis of variance. The results revealed that N9 covered significantly greater distances and exhibited higher player load compared to T5 and 3L [p 2.5 m s−2), accelerations (>2.5 m s−2), acceleration distance (>2 m s−2), high-speed running (>15 km h−1), very high-speed running (>21 km h−1, VSHR), sprint running (>25 km h−1, SR) distance. When using coupled RA ACWR method, centers exposed significantly greater values to T5 (p

Purpose: To examine the utility of differential ratings of perceived exertion (dRPE) for monitoring internal intensity and load in association football. Methods: Data were collected from 2 elite senior male football teams during 1 season (N = 55). External intensity and load data (duration × intensity) were collected during each training and match session using electronic performance and tracking systems. After each session, players rated their perceived breathlessness and leg-muscle exertion. Descriptive statistics were calculated to quantify how often players rated the 2 types of rating of perceived exertion differently (dRPEDIFF). In addition, the association between dRPEDIFF and external intensity and load was examined. First, the associations between single external variables and dRPEDIFF were analyzed using a mixed-effects logistic regression model. Second, the link between dRPEDIFF and session types with distinctive external profiles was examined using the Pearson chi-square test of independence. Results: On average, players rated their session perceived breathlessness and leg-muscle exertion differently in 22% of the sessions (range: 0%–64%). Confidence limits for the effect of single external variables on dRPEDIFF spanned across largely positive and negative values for all variables, indicating no conclusive findings. The analysis based on session type indicated that players differentiated more often in matches and intense training sessions, but there was no pattern in the direction of differentiation. Conclusions: The findings of this study provide no evidence supporting the utility of dRPE for monitoring internal intensity and load in football. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the training load, energy expenditure, dietary intake, and sleep quality and quantity of junior tennis players during a tennis training camp. Methods: Ten junior academy tennis players (14 [1] y) completed a 6-day camp with daily morning and afternoon training. Players wore accelerometer watches to measure activity energy expenditure and sleep. Global positioning system units were worn to monitor external training load (distance covered, maximum velocity, and PlayerLoad™). Dietary intake was obtained from a food diary and supplementary food photography. Results: Players covered significantly more distance and had higher PlayerLoad™ during morning sessions than afternoon sessions (5370 [505] m vs 4726 [697] m, P <.005, d = 3.2; 725 [109] a.u. vs 588 [96] a.u., P <.005, d = 4.0). Players also ran further (5624 [897] m vs 4933 [343] m, P <.05, d = 1.0) and reached higher maximum velocities (5.17 [0.44] m·s−1 vs 4.94 [0.39] m·s−1, P <.05, d = 0.3) during simulated match play compared with drill sessions. Mean daily energy expenditure was 3959 (630) kcal. Mean energy intake was 2526 (183) kcal, resulting in mean energy deficits of 1433 (683) kcal. Players obtained an average of 6.9 (0.8) hours of sleep and recorded 28 (7) nightly awakenings. Conclusions: Junior academy tennis players failed to achieve energy balance and recorded suboptimal sleep quantity and quality throughout the training camp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was 2-fold: (1) to assess and compare the external and internal load of elite young soccer players during competitive microcycles and (2) to describe the training/match ratios (TMr) in elite male youth soccer players. Method: Twenty-one youth soccer players were monitored using a 10-Hz global positioning system. Total distance covered, running distance (RD), high-speed RD, sprint distance, number of accelerations and decelerations, player load, and rated perceived exertion were recorded during training sessions and matches. The TMr was calculated for each load measure. All variables were also normalized dividing the load per minute of activity. Results: The RD, high-speed running, and sprint distance were higher 3 days before the match and 2 days before match compared with the rest of the training sessions. However, accelerations, decelerations, and player load were higher 4 days before match than other sessions. Besides this, the TMr of RD, high-speed running, and sprint distance were associated with lower values than the TMr of total distance covered, accelerations, decelerations, and player load. The match constituted the highest load during competitive microcycle. Conclusions: The present data support the idea that youth soccer coaches and practitioners must consider relative training load according to match demands to better manage and evaluate player periodization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Evidence regarding the impact of offshore sailing on fatigue and readiness variables is conspicuous by its absence. This study investigated the acute effects of an offshore sailing regatta on anthropometry, muscular performance, subjective recovery, and salivary biomarker cortisol. Methods: Ten professional offshore sailors from a mixed-sex crew partook in the study (N = 10; mean [SD] age = 32.2 [3.96] y; stature = 179.1 [7.30] cm; body mass = 84.2 [12.1] kg). The race involved 3 offshore legs over a 3-week period. Baseline measures of anthropometry, lower- and upper-body muscular function, perceptions of subjective wellness, and salivary cortisol were assessed 3 hours prior to competition (ie, before the first leg). These measures were repeated within 30 minutes after the cessation of each leg. During each leg, boat movements were recorded via global positioning system units. Results: There were significant reductions in lower (effect size [ES] = 0.49) and upper muscular (ES = 0.21) functions, as well as in subjective wellness (ES = 1.65). Salivary cortisol levels increased (ES = 0.84). Conclusion: These results demonstrate that, during an intensified period of sailing competition, fatigue will progressively increase. This may impede sailing performance by reducing physical and cognitive efficiency. Furthermore, countermovement jump, handgrip strength, perception of subjective wellness, and cortisol concentration appear to be sensitive measures for monitoring fatigue and readiness in professional sailors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Study Aim. The sportive periodization originated from the military periodization of ancient civilizations and of the Greek Tetrad for the sportive preparation the ancient Greek athletes. The objective of the review was to explain the periodization of the Roman military training. Materials and Methods. The articles were selected in January and February of 2024 in 10 databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, Research Gate, Scielo, Redalyc, Scopus, DOAJ, ScienceDirect, Semantic Scholar, and Latindex) with the following keywords: Roman military training, Roman soldiers, Roman Empire territory, Tetrad during Roman military training, Roman military equipment, and Roman military tactics. Results. Ancient Rome conquered almost all Western Europe, North Africa, and part of the Middle East because the nation was very militarized. The military training during ancient Rome for the soldiers and sailors had several types of training that were physical training, training, technical training, and technical and tactical training. So, for the war coach to organize all these training sessions for the Roman military, he needed to structure the periodization. The periodization of the Roman military training was used with several mesocycles of 4 to 6 months of duration during various moments of the year for the soldier and the sailor to always be prepared for war. In 146 B.C., the Roman Empire conquered ancient Greece and after this moment, the Romans used the scientific knowledge of the Greeks to structure the Roman military training. Then, the Romans used the Tetrad of the Greeks to structure the military training. Roman military training was structured with several Tetrad during 4 to 6 months. Therefore, the Tetrad was inserted into the mesocycle of 4 to 6 months. Conclusions. In conclusion, the periodization of the Roman military training was very organized for the military to achieve a high performance in the war.

The recognition of high-speed demands in football has led elite academies to prioritize acceleration capabilities for player selection and promotion, particularly given their fundamental role in the motor skills of professional players and their impact on goal-related opportunities. This study explored the effectiveness of game-based versus resisted sprint training methods in enhancing the acceleration abilities of professional women’s football players. Over the entire competitive period, the training load of 26 athletes (24.2 ± 3.7 years) was assessed using GPS devices, and sprint capabilities were evaluated through four 30-m acceleration tests spaced six weeks apart. Linear mixed models (LMMs) analyzed physical load parameters, including distance covered at high speeds, speed events, and maximum speed, with periods and players as fixed and random effects, respectively. Significant sprint performance improvements were observed across all intervals, particularly when high-intensity distance volumes were combined with resisted sprint training. Conversely, high-intensity running without additional stimuli also led to performance gains, albeit to a lesser extent. Both game-based and resisted sprint training methods were effective in enhancing acceleration capabilities, while the absence of specific sprint focus did not significantly alter sprint performance. These findings support the inclusion of tailored sprint training in athletic programs to optimize acceleration in women’s football players.

Training load monitoring is employed to quantify training demands, to determine individual physiological adaptions and to examine the dose–response relationship, ultimately reducing the likelihood of injury and making a meaningful impact on performance. The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between training load and injury in competitive swimmers, using the session rate of perceived exertion (sRPE) method. Data were collected using a prospective, longitudinal study design across 104 weeks. Data were collected from 34 athletes centralised in two of Swim Ireland’s National Centres. Bayesian mixed effects logistic regression models were used to analyse the relationship between sRPE-TL and medical attention injuries. The average weekly swim volume was 33.5 ± 12.9 km. The weekly total training load (AU) averaged 3838 ± 1616.1. A total of 58 medical attention injury events were recorded. The probability of an association between training load and injury ranged from 70% to 98%; however, evidence for these relationships was deemed weak or highly uncertain. The findings suggest that using a single training load metric in isolation cannot decisively inform when an injury will occur. Instead, coaches should utilise monitoring tools to ensure that the athletes are exposed to an appropriate training load to optimise physiological adaptation. Future research should strive to investigate the relationship between additional risk factors (e.g., wellbeing, lifestyle factors or previous injury history), in combination with training load and injury, in competitive swimmers.

Purpose: The purpose of this commentary is to outline some of the pitfalls when using the fitness–fatigue model to unravel the interaction between training load and performance. By doing so, we encourage sport scientists and coaches to interpret the parameters from the model with some extra caution. Conclusions: Caution is needed when interpreting the fitness–fatigue model since the parameter values are influenced by the starting parameter values, the modeling technique, and the input of the model. Also, the use of general constants should be avoided since they do not account for interindividual differences and differences between training-load methods. Therefore, we advise sport scientists and coaches to use the model as a way to work more data-informed rather than working data-driven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To present training load (TL) and heart-rate variability (HRV) in an elite sprinter monitored before, during, and after a COVID-19 infection until successful return to performance. Methods: TL, subjective morning fatigue (MF), and supine HRV were monitored during a 12-week period. Results: During a high-TL period (training camp), MF and heart rate increased and vagally mediated HRV variables decreased. MF increased and stayed high 3 days after the camp despite decrease in TL. In contrast, 4 days after the camp, heart rate decreased and vagally mediated HRV variables increased, reflecting parasympathetic hyperactivity. Elevated MF and suboptimal training performance led to a PCR test decision, which returned positive. After a 10-day training suspension, TL was progressively increased with low MF and high vagal tone. The athlete was able to return to competition 17 days after medical clearance for return to participation and 1 week later beat his indoor 60-m personal best. Conclusions: In this athlete, COVID-19 infection induced parasympathetic hyperactivity with subjective fatigue. This case report presents how performance capacity was only negatively influenced by a COVID-19 infection in the short term, with a quick and successful return to performance, thanks to state-of-the-art medical management. This highlights the importance of TL and HRV monitoring in return-to-participation and return-to-competition decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a common and devastating injury in women's soccer. Several risk factors for ACL injury have been identified, but have not yet been examined as potentially dynamic risk factors, which may change throughout a collegiate soccer season. Design: Prospective cohort study. Methods: Nine common clinical screening assessments for ACL injury risk, consisting of range of motion, movement quality, and power, were assessed in 29 Division I collegiate women's soccer players. Preseason and midseason values were compared for significant differences. Change scores for each risk factor were also correlated with cumulative training loads during the first 10 weeks of a competitive soccer season. Results: Hip external rotation range of motion and power had statistically significant and meaningful differences at midseason compared with preseason, indicating they are dynamic risk factors. There were no significant associations between the observed risk factor changes and cumulative training load. Conclusions: Hip external rotation range of motion and power are dynamic risk factors for ACL injury in women's collegiate soccer athletes. Serial screening of these risk factors may elucidate stronger associations with injury risk and improve prognostic accuracy of screening tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To determine if workload and seasonal periods (preseason vs in season) are associated with the incidence of injuries and illnesses in female professional cyclists. Methods: Session rating of perceived exertion was used to quantify internal workload and was collected from 15 professional female cyclists, from 33 athlete seasons. One week (acute) workload, 4 weeks (chronic) workload, and 3 acute:chronic workload models were analyzed. Two workload models are based on moving averages of the ratios, the acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR), and the ACWR uncoupled (ACWRuncoup). The difference between both is the chronic load; in ACWR, the acute load is part of the chronic load, and in ACWRuncoup, the acute and chronic load are uncoupled. The third workload model is based on exponentially weighted moving averages of the ratios. In addition, the athlete season is divided into the preseason and in season. Results: Generalized estimating equations analysis was used to assess the associations between the workload ratios and the occurrence of injuries and illnesses. High values of acute workload (P =.048), ACWR (P =.02), ACWRuncoup (P =.02), exponentially weighted moving averages of the ratios (P =.01), and the in season (P =.0001) are significantly associated with the occurrence of injury. No significant associations were found between the workload models, the seasonal periods, and the occurrence of illnesses. Conclusions: These findings suggest the importance of monitoring workload and workload ratios in female professional cyclists to lower the risk of injuries and therefore improve their performances. Furthermore, these results indicate that, in the preseason, additional stressors occur, which could lead to an increased risk of injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to quantify and compare sleep architecture before and after home and away matches in elite soccer players from the English Premier League. Across two seasons, 6 male players (age 28 ± 5 y; body mass 85.1 ± 9.5 kg; height 1.86 ± 0.09 m) wore WHOOP straps to monitor sleep across 13 matches that kicked off before 17:00 h. For each, sleep was recorded the night before (MD−1), after (MD) and following the match (MD +1). Across these 3 days total sleep time (TST), sleep efficiency (SE), sleep disturbances, wake time, light sleep, deep sleep, REM sleep, sleep and wake onsets, alongside external load, were compared. TST was reduced after MD versus MD +1 (392.9 ± 76.4 vs 459.1 ± 66.7 min, p = 0.003) but no differences existed in any other sleep variables between days (p > 0.05). TST did not differ after home (386.9 ± 75.7 min) vs. away matches (401.0 ± 78.3 min) (p = 0.475), nor did other sleep variables (p > 0.05). GPS-derived external load peaked on MD (p < 0.05). In conclusion, despite reduced TST on MD, sleep architecture was unaffected after matches played before 17:00 h, suggesting sleep quality was not significantly compromised. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the external load of professional goalkeepers (GKs) in different training sessions of the microcycle. Three professional GKs (age: 28.1 ± 6.9 years; stature: 190.1 ± 1.9 cm; body mass: 84.8 ± 1.1 kg) were monitored by GPS devices during different training sessions according to the days since/until the match day (MD) at MD+1, MD-4, MD-3, MD-2 and MD-1. Different external load measures were calculated: total distance, distance covered at > 14 km · h-1, acceleration load, player load, number of dives, dive load, number of explosive efforts of displacement, number of low intensity (< 0.3 m), medium intensity (0.3-0.4 m), high intensity (> 0.4 m) and medium-high intensity jumps (> 0.3 m). The results showed that there is a decrease in the external load as the GKs' training sessions approach the match, with the lowest value of external load observed at MD-1, and the highest external loads at MD+1 and MD-4. This analysis of the external load demands of professional soccer GKs provides new information that will be useful to inform professionals when planning and implementing training and/or recovery strategies for soccer GKs during the microcycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to calculate training intensity and load using muscle oxygen saturation (SmO2) during two differentiated physical tasks. 29 university athletes participated in a 40-m Maximal Shuttle Run Test (MST, 10 × 40-m with 30 s recovery between sprints) and a 3000-m time trial run. Distance and time were used to calculate external load (EL). Internal load indicators were calculated based on percentage of maximum heart rate (%HRMAX) and SmO2 variables: muscle oxygen extraction (∇%SmO2) and the cardio-muscle oxygen index (CMOI) was also provided by relating ∇%SmO2 ÷ %HRMAX, and the training load were calculated as the product of speed (m/min × IL) and the efficiency index [Effindex (m/min ÷ IL)]. A student t test was applied based on Bayesian factor analysis. As expected, EL differed in the 40-m MST (331 ± 22.8) vs. 3000-m trials (222 ± 56.8) [BF10 = 6.25e+6; p = <0.001]. Likewise, IL showed higher values in 40-m MST (39.20 ± 15.44) vs. 3000-m (30.51 ± 8.67) in CMOI: [BF10 = 1.70; p = 0.039]. Training load was greater in 40-m MST (85.77 ± 27.40) vs. 3000-m (15.55 ± 6.77) [(m/min × ∇%SmO2): BF10 = 12.5; p = 0.003] and 40-m MST (129.27 ± 49.44) vs. 3000-m (70.63 ± 32.98) [(m/min × CMOI): BF10 = 169.6; p = <0.001]. Also, the Effindex was higher in 40-m MST (10.19 ± 4.17) vs. 3000-m (6.06 ± 2.21) [(m/min × ∇%SmO2): BF10 = 137.03; p = <0.001] and 40-m MST (9.69 ± 4.11) vs. 3000-m (7.55 ± 1.87) [(m/min × CMOI): BF10 = 1.86; p = 0.035]. This study demonstrates calculations of training intensity and load based on SmO2 as an internal load indicator along with speed as an external load indicator during two differentiated exercises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commonly we see large within-age-group variations in physique, including body mass, stature, and percentages of predicted adult height, which suggests that age-specified training loads are flawed. Aims were to investigate how maturation impacts training load and neuromuscular response within academy soccer and to provide recommendations for practitioners. Fifty-five male soccer players (age 14.5 ± 1.2 years; stature 172 ± 10 cm; body mass 59.8 ± 10 kg; 94.1 ± 1.8% predicted adult height) reported differential ratings of perceived exertion (AU) across a season. Neuromuscular performance (countermovement jump, reactive strength index, absolute and relative leg stiffness) was measured at three time points across the season. Perceived exertion and neuromuscular performance were examined using linear mixed modelling, supplemented with non-clinical magnitude-based decisions. Analysis indicates every 5% increase in maturity status results in players perceiving overall session intensity 6.9 AU lower and 13.9 AU lower for a 10% maturity shift. Both 5% and 10% changes in maturity most likely resulted in higher countermovement jump, with likely to very likely differences observed for RSI and ABS. Maturity substantially influences neuromuscular performance over the season. Therefore, maturity-specific load prescription may prevent significant within age-group differences in accumulated load, possibly reducing injury risk and/or burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demands placed on goalkeepers are often neglected in scientific research. This study seeks to evaluate the acceleration and deceleration requirements across various exercise categories: 'Complementary' (tailored training for goalkeepers separated from team drills), 'Integrated' (team-based drills not position-specific), and 'Specific' (exercises targeting position-specific tactical, technical, and physical skills). Data were collected from 52 observations during nineteen training sessions across three highly trained goalkeepers from a Portuguese U23 team. Acceleration and deceleration demands were retrieved through GPS 10 Hz technology, including the effort starting speed (< 5 km.h-1, 5-10 km.h-1, 10-15 km.h-1, 15-20 km.h-1, 20-25 km.h-1 and > 25 km.h-1). Efforts intensities were classified relatively and individually (low: 25-50%; moderate: 50-75%; high: > 75%). Mean ± SD were calculated to the number of efforts per minute, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) assessed potential differences between the players and t-test assessed differences between exercise' categories. No differences between players were found regarding acceleration (p=0.918) or deceleration (p=0.685) efforts. 'Integrated' category elicited less low-intensity accelerations and decelerations than 'Complementary' and 'Specific' categories (p<.05); and 'Specific' category elicited more moderate-intensity decelerations than 'Integrated' (p<.01) and 'Complementary' (p<.05). Goalkeeping is a singular position in soccer requiring different exercise categories to provide different resources to players: from simulating match demands, such as the 'integrated' exercises with outfield players, to improving goalkeepers' capabilities with 'specific' and 'complementary' exercises. Due to the uniqueness of the position, practitioners should consider varying training exercises of goalkeepers to provide different acceleration and deceleration stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although differential rating of perceived exertion (RPE) scales have been supported in quantifying internal load across various sports, their application in basketball remains to be comprehensively investigated. Consequently, we aimed to: (1) quantify and compare session- and weekly-RPE loads using global and differential RPE scales; and (2) compare session-RPE load between individual sessions across the week using each scale in basketball players. Ten semiprofessional, male players reported RPE using global and differential (respiratory and muscular) scales following each training session and game during the in-season. RPE was multiplied by session duration to derive session-RPE load, which were summed to determine weekly-RPE load. Weekly-RPE load was higher using global (P = 0.003, η2 = 0.343, large) and muscular (P = 0.004, η2 = 0.209, large) scales than the respiratory scale. Likewise, session-RPE load was higher using global (P = 0.049, η2 = 0.314, large) and muscular (P = 0.054, η2 = 0.298, large) scales than the respiratory scale only in games, with differences between scales during other sessions being trivial-to-medium (P >0.05). Across all scales, higher session-RPE loads were apparent in the second training session than all other sessions in the week (P <0.05, η2 = 0.105-0.561, medium-to-large), and during games than the first training session (P <0.001, η2 = 0.202-0.223, large). While session-to-session load changes were similarly detected across scales, the greater weekly and game muscular loads than respiratory loads support the potential for differential RPE scales to provide more detailed internal load data in basketball settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Injury in sport is an inherent risk to participation, and it can have devastating consequences for the athlete, both mentally and physically. Previous research has found that impairments in well-being can increase the risk of injury, and that various forms of mindfulness training and practice can improve well-being and mental health in various populations. Hypothesis: Mindfulness would be associated with greater well-being and lower risk of injury. Study Design: Cohort study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: A total of 21 female Division I athletes underwent a formal 6-week mindfulness training program and were encouraged to continue mindfulness exercises. The athletes completed daily surveys on their smartphones in relation to mood, muscle readiness (soreness), readiness to train, energy level, daily training load, and whether they had participated in mindfulness training that day. Linear mixed effects models were used to evaluate well-being variables and mindfulness state, and separate mixed effects logistics regression models were used to evaluate injury incidence and wellness variables. Results: On days with mindfulness practice, athletes reported higher mood (19.6 [18.8-20.3] vs 19.4 [18.6-20.1, P = 0.03), muscle readiness (18.9 [17.8-20.0] vs 18.6 [17.5-19.6], P = 0.03), readiness to train (78.7 [75.9-81.5] vs 77.4 [74.7-80.2], P < 0.01), and energy level (19.3 [18.6-20.1] vs 18.8 [18.1-19.5, P < 0.01) than on the days when they did not participate in mindfulness training. Mindfulness practice was associated with significantly reduced likelihood of suffering an acute injury the following day (odds ratio, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.42-0.43; P < 0.01). Conclusion: On an individual level, participation in mindfulness by female collegiate athletes was associated with a dramatic reduction in injury risk the following day. In addition, mindfulness was associated with significantly improved mood, muscle readiness, readiness to train, and energy level. Clinical Relevance: These findings suggest that mindfulness training in athletes may improve well-being and reduce the risk of injury among high-level athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patellar tendinopathy is characterised by localised pain of the proximal insertion of the patella tendon and can have a significant impact on the functionality and performance of elite athletes. This paper is intended to reveal effective strategies for the treatment of patellar tendon pain, so that the strength and conditioning coach can safely and successfully return an athlete to sport. The management of patellar tendinopathy focuses on progressively developing the load tolerance of the tendon, primarily through isometric and eccentric based exercises in the early stages of rehabilitation. The reintroduction of running and jumping occurs in the mid-stage of rehabilitation, before an eventual return to training and sport specific movements, occurring in the end stage. Conversely, athletes should avoid stretching and complete rest as these can have a negative impact on the tendon and the reloading strategies. The use of a pain monitoring scale is another effective tool that assist practitioners to determine if the load is being tolerated appropriately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sport coaches increasingly rely on external load metrics for designing effective training programs. However, their accuracy in estimating internal load is inconsistent, and their ability to predict autonomic nervous system (ANS) deterioration is unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the relationships between internal and external training load metrics and ANS recovery and function in college football players. Football athletes were recruited from a D1 college in the southeastern US and prospectively followed for 27 weeks. Internal load was estimated via exercise cardiac load (ECL; average training heartrate (HR) × session duration) and measured with an armband monitor equipped with electrocardiographic capabilities (Warfighter MonitorTM (WFM), Tiger Tech Solutions, Miami, FL, USA). External load was estimated via the summation and rate of acceleration and decelerations as measured by a triaxial accelerometer using the WFM and an accelerometer-based (ACCEL) device (Catapult Player Load, Catapult Sports, Melbourne, Australia) worn on the mid-upper back. Baseline HR, HR variability (HRV) and HR recovery served as the indicators for ANS recovery and function, respectively. For HRV, two, time-domain metrics were measured: the standard deviation of the NN interval (SDNN) and root mean square of the standard deviation of the NN interval (rMSSD). Linear regression models evaluated the associations between ECL, ACCEL, and the indicators of ANS recovery and function acutely (24 h) and cumulatively (one- and two-week). Athletes (n = 71) were male and, on average, 21.3 ± 1.4 years of age. Acute ECL elicited stronger associations for 24 h baseline HR (R2 0.19 vs. 0.03), HR recovery (R2 0.38 vs. 0.07), SDNN (R2 0.19 vs. 0.02) and rMSSD (R2 0.19 vs. 0.02) compared to ACCEL. Similar results were found for one-week: 24 h baseline HR (R2 0.48 vs. 0.05), HR recovery (R2 0.55 vs. 0.05), SDNN (R2 0.47 vs. 0.05) and rMSSD (R2 0.47 vs. 0.05) and two-week cumulative exposures: 24 h baseline HR (R2 0.52 vs. 0.003), HR recovery (R2 0.57 vs. 0.05), SDNN (R2 0.52 vs. 0.003) and rMSSD (R2 0.52 vs. 0.002). Lastly, the ACCEL devices weakly correlated with ECL (rho = 0.47 and 0.43, p < 0.005). Our findings demonstrate that ACCEL poorly predicted ANS deterioration and underestimated internal training load. ACCEL devices may "miss" the finite window for preventing ANS deterioration by potentially misestimating training loads acutely and cumulatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cabarkapa, DV, Cabarkapa, D, Philipp, NM, and Fry, AC. Competitive season-long changes in countermovement vertical jump force-time metrics in female volleyball players. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e72-e77, 2024--Although force plates remain one of the most widely used tools for neuromuscular performance assessment in applied sports-specific settings, there is still a lack of scientific literature focused on studying changes in countermovement vertical jump (CVJ) performance in team sports such as volleyball, especially within the female athlete population. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine season-long neuromuscular performance changes in volleyball players. Eighteen National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Division-I collegiate female athletes performed 3 maximal-effort CVJs while standing on a uniaxial force plate system sampling at 1,000 Hz at 5 different testing timepoints throughout a competitive season span (;11 weeks). The testing sessions were separated 2-3 weeks apart and performed at the approximately same time of the day (12:00 hours). Repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed that both concentric and eccentric force-time metrics remain relatively unchanged throughout a regular season span (e.g., concentric peak force and power, eccentric impulse and duration). However, the eccentric metrics such as peak and mean power and peak velocity displayed a slight improvement after a brief tapering period purposely implemented before the post-season competition to optimize the athlete's recovery (;15, 18, and 14% increase, respectively). In addition, the outcome metrics such as vertical jump height and reactive strength index-modified did not display notable fluctuations across the competitive season span. These findings can help coaches, sports scientists, and strength and conditioning practitioners to obtain a deeper insight into collegiate female athletes' force-time characteristics that may aid with developing adequate training regimens targeted toward optimizing on-court performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wilmes, E, de Ruiter, CJ, van Leeuwen, RR, Banning, LF, van der Laan, D, and Savelsbergh, GJP. Different aspects of physical load in small-sided field hockey games. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): e56-e61, 2024--Running volumes and acceleration/deceleration load are known to vary with different formats of small-sided games (SSGs) in field hockey. However, little is known about other aspects of the physical load. Therefore, the aim of this study was to gain a more thorough understanding of the total physical load in field hockey SSGs. To that end, 2 different SSGs (small: 5 vs. 5, ;100 m2 per player; large: 9 vs. 9, ;200 m2 per player) were performed by 16 female elite field hockey athletes. A range of external physical load metrics was obtained using a global navigational satellite system and 3 wearable inertial measurement units on the thighs and pelvis. These metrics included distances covered in different velocity ranges (walk, jog, run, and sprint), mean absolute acceleration/deceleration, Hip Load, and time spent in several physically demanding body postures. The effects of SSG format on these external physical load metrics were assessed using linear mixed models (p, 0.05). Running volumes in various speed ranges were higher for the large SSG. By contrast, mean absolute acceleration/deceleration and time spent in several demanding body postures were higher for the small SSG. This study shows that changing the SSG format affects different aspects of physical load differently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daub, BD, McLean, BD, Heishman, AD, Peak, KM, and Coutts, AJ. The relationship between mental fatigue and shooting performance over the course of a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I basketball season. J Strength Cond Res 38(2): 334-341, 2024--The aim of this investigation was to examine the presence of mental fatigue and concurrent changes in shooting performance across various experimental weeks throughout a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) basketball season. Fifteen elite male NCAA Division I collegiate basketball players (age 20.261.2 years, height 199.367.1 cm, and body mass 93.16 8.6 kg) volunteered for this study. Mental fatigue and basketball shooting performance was evaluated at 4 timepoints with varying seasonal demands: high game volume (GAME), high academic load (ACADEMIC), no games and no academic load (PRACTICE), and standard number of games and academic requirements (TYPICAL). Subjective mental fatigue increased significantly (p#0.05) from Pre to Post brief psychomotor vigilance test (PVT-B) measurements at the end of the ACADEMIC week (p 5 0.002, d 5 1.51) and from beginning to end of the ACADEMIC week (p, 0.001, d 5 2.21). Ratings of mental effort were significantly increased during the ACADEMIC week (p, 0.001, d 5 1.67). Recovery stress questionnaire (REST-Q) showed significant differences between week GAME and ACADEMIC with an increase in Social Stress (p 5 0.001, d 5 0.84), Fatigue (p 5 0.021, d 5 1.12), Disturbed Breaks (p 5 0.024, d 5 0.57), and Emotional Exhaustion (p 5 0.035, d 5 0.75). Lower shooting performance was observed during the ACADEMIC week from Pre to Post (p50.009, d50.35) and higher scores Pre to Post in the TYPICAL week (p 5 0.008, d 5 0.25). Basketball shooting performance was significantly reduced after increased levels of mental fatigue stemming from added academic stress. In addition, an increase in sport-specific training or games had no effect on subsequent basketball shooting performance. Special consideration should be given by coaches around examination periods because the existence of academic stressors can influence basketball shooting performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the recovery responses to the Total Quality Recovery (TQR), Well-Being questionnaire (WBQ), and Heart Rate (HR) responses to Submaximal Running Test (SRT), and the influence of salivary testosterone concentration (TEST) on these responses in 25 elite youth (U15) male basketball players. TQR, WBQ, and HR measurements were assessed after 48 hours of rest (T1), 24 hours after the 1st day of training (T2) and 24 hours after the 2nd day of training (T3). Salivary sampling was conducted at T1 and T3. A significant decrease was observed for TQR (F = 4.06; p = 0.01) and for WBQ (F = 5.37; p = 0.008) from T1 to T3. No difference among the three-time points was observed for HR and HR Recovery, and the TEST concentration did not influence the results. These results show that TQR and WBQ are sensitive to acute transient alterations in training loads (TL) and may be utilized to monitor recovery in elite youth basketball players. The HR related measurements presented limited responsiveness, and the TEST seems not to influence the recovery of these players who are competing at highest performance level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: There is a lack of data on the long-term training characteristics and performance markers of elite young female endurance athletes. The aim of this study was to present the training load (ECOs), as well as the evolution of the anthropometric values and performance of three elite U23 female triathletes over a season. (2) Methods: General training data and performance data relating to the swimming, cycling, and running legs of the 2021 season were described. The training intensity distribution (TID) was presented using the triphasic model, while the training load was based on the ECO model. An anthropometric analysis was also conducted in accordance with the ISAK standards. (3) Results: Triathletes increased their VO2max in cycling (6.9–10%) and running (7.1–9.1%), as well as their power and speed associated with the VO2max (7.7–8.6% in cycling and 5.1–5.3% in running) and their swimming speed associated with the lactate thresholds (2.6–4.0% in LT2 and 1.2–2.5% in LT1). The triathletes completed more than 10 h of weekly average training time, with peak weeks exceeding 15 h. The average TID of the three triathletes was 82% in phase 1, 6% in phase 2, and 12% in phase 3. A decrease in the sum of skinfolds and fat mass percentage was observed during the season in the three triathletes, although the last measurement revealed a stagnation or slight rise in these parameters. (4) Conclusions: The triathletes performed a combination of two training periodization models (traditional and block periodization) with a polarized TID in most of the weeks of the season. Improvements in performance and physiological parameters were observed after the general preparatory period as well as a positive body composition evolution throughout the season, except at the end, where the last measurement revealed stagnation or a slight decline. This study can be useful as a general guide for endurance coaches to organize a training season with female U23 triathletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Academy soccer players frequently train in the evening (i.e. 1700-2000 h), hence limited time to nutritionally prepare and recover due to schooling, travel and sleep schedules. Accordingly, we assessed timing and quantity of energy intake in the pre-training and post-training period. Over a 3-day in-season training period, male players (n=48; n=8 from under (U) 12, 13, 14, 15/16, 18 and 23 players) from an English Premier League academy self-reported dietary intake and physical activity levels (via the remote food photography method and activity diary, respectively) in the four hours pre- and post-training. Timing of pre-training energy intake ranged from 40 ± 28 mins (U15/U16 players) to 114 ± 71 mins (U18) before training and mean carbohydrate (CHO) intake ranged from 0.8±0.4 g.kg-1 (U23) to 1.5±0.9 g.kg-1 (U12). Timing of post-training energy intake ranged from 39 ± 27 mins (U14) to 70 ± 84 mins (U23) and mean CHO intake ranged from 1.6±0.8 g.kg-1 (U12) to 0.9±0.5 g.kg-1 (U14). In contrast to CHO, all age groups consumed sufficient protein intake in the post-training period (i.e. > 0.3 g.kg-1). We conclude academy soccer players habitually practice sub-optimal fuelling and recovery strategies, the consequence of which could impair growth, maturation and physical performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: the main aim of this study was to quantify and compare the weekly external loads of pre-season in two professional football teams. Methods: GPS devices monitored forty-five players in two teams daily in a five-week pre-season period. The external load measures were: number of sessions, total duration, acceleration load (aLoad), total distance (TD), distance at >21 km·h-1 (TD21), distance at >24 km·h-1 (TD24) and Player-Load® (PL). Results: there were differences in the weekly external load between both teams. Team1 trained 30% more time and training sessions than Team2, so the weekly load for all external load variables was higher except for aLoad and TD21 for W1 (Team2>Team1, p

El uso de escalas de tasa de esfuerzo percibido (RPE) basadas en repeticiones de reserva (RIR) puede ser un complemento a los métodos absolutos, como 1 repetición máxima (1RM), la variable porcentual con respecto a 1RM (xRM) y la velocidad concéntrica media (VCM), optimizando el control de la intensidad del entrenamiento. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la validez del uso de la escala de esfuerzo subjetiva RPE-RIR como herramienta de autorregulación con respecto a los métodos de cuantificación de la intensidad de la carga de entrenamiento. Realizamos una búsqueda sistemática en las bases de datos PubMed, WOS y Scopus. Se revisaron un total de 2.271 artículos, de los cuales 7 cumplieron con los criterios de elegibilidad. En estos estudios participaron 147 sujetos entrenados en fuerza (novatos, experimentados, profesionales, levantadores de pesas), que respondieron a la implementación de protocolos que cuantifican la intensidad de carga subjetiva y objetiva (relación RPE-RIR e intensidad de carga objetiva, velocidad concéntrica media - 1RM/xRM). Se encontraron fuertes correlaciones entre las variables del estudio RPE-RIR/ Velocidad concéntrica media (r = 0,90 - 0,92; r = -0,98 a -1,00; EL: r = 0,85/ r = -0,88, NL: r = 0,85/ r = -0,77), RPE-RIR/1RM (r = 0,88 a 0,91). Las principales conclusiones de esta revisión sistemática en relación con los métodos y medios para cuantificar la intensidad objetiva y subjetiva de la carga de entrenamiento indican una fuerte correlación entre el RPE-RIR (como método subjetivo) y el VCM y 1RM/xRM (como método objetivo), especialmente en poblaciones inexpertas. Sin embargo, estas conclusiones deben considerarse individualmente, dadas las diferencias entre protocolos y movimientos analizados y el análisis limitado de poblaciones noveles. Palabras clave: Esfuerzo subjetivo, carga de entrenamiento, metodologías de ejercicio. Abstract. The use of rate of perceived effort scales (RPE) based on reserve repetitions (RIR) can be a complement to absolute methods, such as 1 maximum repetition (1RM), the percentage variable with respect to 1RM (xRM), and the average concentric velocity (ACV), optimizing control of training intensity. This study aimed to evaluate the validity of using a subjective RPE-RIR effort scale as a self-regulation tool with respect to quantifying the intensity of the training load. We perform a systematic search in PubMed, WOS, and Scopus databases. 2,271 articles were reviewed, of which 7 met the eligibility criteria. These studies involved 147 subjects trained in strength (novices, experienced professionals, and powerlifters), who responded to the implementation of protocols that quantify the subjective and objective load intensity (RPE-RIR relationship and objective load intensity, mean speed - 1RM/xRM). There are strong correlations between the variables in the RPE-RIR study/ Average concentric velocity (r = 0.90 - 0.92; r = -0,98 to -1,00; EL: r = 0.85/ r = -0.88, NL: r = 0.85/ r = -0.77), RPE-RIR/1RM (r = 0.88 to 0.91). The main conclusions of this systematic review regarding methods and means of quantifying objective and subjective intensity of training load indicate a strong correlation between RPE-RIR (as a subjective method) and ACV and 1RM/xRM (as an objective method), especially in inexperienced populations. However, these findings should be considered individually, given the differences between protocols and movements analyzed and the limited analysis of novice populations. Keywords: Subjective Effort, Training Load, Exercise Methodologies.

Abstract The ability to obtain dynamic movement assessments using force plate technology holds the promise of providing more detailed knowledge of the strength, balance and forces generated by active-duty military personnel. To date, there are not well-defined use cases for implementation of force plate assessments in military training environments. We sought to determine if force plate technology assessments could provide additional insights, related to the likelihood of graduation, beyond that provided by traditional physical fitness tests (PFT’s), in an elite Marine training school. Serial force plate measures were also obtained on those Marines successfully completing training to determine if consistent measures reflecting the effects of training on muscle skeletal load-over-time could be accurately measured. A pre-training force plate assessment performed in 112 Marines did not predict graduation rates. For Marines who successfully completed the course, serial measures obtained throughout training were highly variable for each individual and no firm conclusions could be drawn related to load imposed or the fitness attained during training.

Purpose: To compare the physical demands and performance indicators of male professional cyclists of 2 different categories (Union Cycliste Internationale WorldTour [WT] and ProTeam [PT]) during a cycling grand tour. Methods: A WT team (n = 8, 31.4 [5.4] y) and a PT team (n = 7, 26.9 [3.3] y) that completed "La Vuelta 2020" volunteered to participate. Participants' power output (PO) was registered, and measures of physical demand and physiological performance (kilojoules spent, training stress score, time spent at different PO bands/zones, and mean maximal PO [MMP] for different exertion durations) were computed. Results: WT achieved a higher final individual position than PT (31 [interquartile range = 33] vs 71 [59], P =.004). WT cyclists showed higher mean PO and kilojoule values than their PT peers and spent more time at high-intensity PO values (>5.25 W·kg−1) and zones (91%–120% of individualized functional threshold power) (Ps <.05). Although no differences were found for MMP values in the overall analysis (P >.05), subanalyses revealed that the between-groups gap increased through the race, with WT cyclists reaching higher MMP values for ≥5-minute efforts in the second and third weeks (Ps <.05). Conclusions: Despite the multifactorial nature of cycling performance, WT cyclists spend more time at high intensities and show higher kilojoules and mean PO than their PT referents during a grand tour. Although the highest MMP values attained during the whole race might not differentiate between WT and PT cyclists, the former achieve higher MMP values as the race progresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effect of peer presence on session rating of perceived exertion (RPE) responses. Method: Fourteen males, with mean (SD) age 22.4 (3.9) years, peak oxygen uptake 48.0 (6.6) mL·kg−1·min−1, and peak power output 330 (44) W, completed an incremental cycling test and 3 identical experimental sessions, in groups of 4 or 5. Experimental sessions involved 24 minutes of cycling, whereby the work rate alternated between 40% and 70% peak power output every 3 minutes. During cycling, heart rate was collected every 3 minutes, and session-RPE was recorded 10 minutes after cycling, in 3 communication contexts: in written form unaccompanied (intrapersonal communication), verbally by the researcher only (interpersonal communication), and in the presence of the training group. Session-RPE was analyzed using ordinal regression and heart rate using a linear mixed-effects model, with models fit in a Bayesian framework. Results: Session-RPE was voted higher when collected in the group's presence compared with when written (odds ratio = 4.26, 95% credible interval = 1.27–14.73). On average, the posterior probability that session-RPE was higher in the group setting than when written was.53. Session-RPE was not different between the group and verbal, or verbal and written collection contexts. Conclusions: This study suggests that contextual psychosocial inputs influence session-RPE and highlights the importance of session-RPE users controlling the measurement environment when collecting votes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess neuromuscular performance capabilities over an in-season mesocycle in early-career professional soccer players and examine the relationship with training workload. Methods: Neuromuscular performance capabilities (isometric knee extensor: peak force, rate of force development, and peak twitch force) of 12 professional soccer players were assessed weekly over a 6-week period. Training and match workload were also recorded over the same period for each player (high-intensity running distance). Changes in neuromuscular performance and workload variables were analyzed. Results: There was evidence of fluctuations in neuromuscular performance capability over the mesocycle that reached statistical (P <.05) and practical (13.3% [peak-to-peak]) significance alongside interweek heterogeneity in training and match workload (∼17.5% [coefficient of variation], P <.05). Congruence among fluctuating patterns of intramesocycle training load and concomitant neuromuscular performance responses was noted over time for acute training load and acute:chronic workload ratio with peak force and rate of force development. Conclusion: Neuromuscular performance capabilities fluctuate over an in-season mesocycle and are influenced by high-intensity running workload, emphasizing the need for acute monitoring in elite soccer players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To establish if training volume was associated with androgen baselines and androgen responsiveness to acute exercise. Methods: During a "high-volume" training phase, 28 cyclists (14 men and 14 women) undertook oxygen-uptake and maximal-work-capacity testing. Two days later, they completed a repeat-sprint protocol, which was repeated 3 weeks later during a "low-volume" phase. Blood and saliva samples were collected before and after (+5 and +60 min) the repeat-sprint protocol. Blood was assayed for total testosterone (TT), free testosterone (FT), and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and saliva, for testosterone and DHT. Results: Pretrial TT, FT, and DHT concentration was greater for males (P <.001, large effect size differences), and in both genders TT, DHT, and saliva for DHT was higher during high-volume loading (moderate to large effect size). Area-under-the-curve analysis revealed larger TT, FT, and DHT responses to the repeat-sprint protocol among females, and high-volume training was linked to larger TT, DHT, and saliva for DHT responses (moderate to large effect size). Baseline TT and FT correlated with oxygen uptake and work capacity in both genders (P <.05). Conclusion: DHT showed no acute performance correlation but was responsive to volume of training, particularly in females. This work informs on timelines and relationships of androgenic biomarkers in males and females across different training loads, adding to the complexity that should be considered in interpretation thereof. The authors speculate that testosterone may impact acute performance via behavioral mechanisms of motivation and attention; DHT, via training volume-induced androgenic promotion, may facilitate long-term adaptive changes, especially for females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the validity of the HandyGym portable flywheel device with an integrated rotary encoder in measuring force and power during iso-inertial exercises compared to a traditional reference system. Methods: In total, 10 trained volunteers (3 women, 7 men; age 25.2 ± 3.8 years) performed half-squats with five different load configurations using the HandyGym device. Concurrent measurements were obtained from HandyGym’s rotary encoder and a criterion system (MuscleLab 6000 strain gauge and linear encoder). Five load configurations were tested, with 15 repetitions recorded per condition. The validity of the HandyGym measurements was assessed through mean bias, typical error of estimation (TEE), and Pearson correlation coefficients, with Bland–Altman plots used to analyze the agreement between the two systems. Results: The HandyGym showed high correlations with the reference system for both force (r = 0.76–0.90) and power (r = 0.60–0.94). However, systematic biases were observed, with the HandyGym consistently underestimating force and power at lower loads and overestimating power at higher loads. The TEE values indicated moderate to large errors, particularly in power measurements. Conclusion: The HandyGym provides valid force measurements with moderate bias, suitable for general monitoring. However, power measurements are less consistent, especially at higher loads, limiting the device’s utility for precise assessments. Adjustments or corrections may be necessary for accurate application in professional contexts.

Background: Football, as the most popular sport worldwide, has long been under suspicion of causing varus knee alignment as early as adolescence. However, no causal relationship has yet been found. The first step to do so would be to determine the prevalence of lower leg malalignment among male junior football players depending on age, performance level and the number of active seasons played. Methods: Leg axis alignment in frontal plane was determined in male junior football players of different age levels between 7 and 18 years by measuring the intercondylar/intermalleolar distance (ICD/IMD) in an upright position. In addition to anthropometric data, multiple sport-specific data such as the start of their football career or training time per week were collected by means of questionnaires (clinical trial registration number: DRKS00020446). Results: 207 male junior football players were included in this survey. The mean age was 12.8 years. Within the group of 15 to 18 year olds, the prevalence of varus knee malalignment was highest at just under a third (32.1%). In the subpopulation that played actively for more than ten seasons, 28.9% showed varus leg axis. Regarding performance level, the highest IMD/ICD values and highest prevalence of varus alignment were found among football players who play on a semi-professional level (16.7%), compared to amateur (11.4%) and high-performance levels (2.8%). Conclusions: Further research is necessary to investigate if this high prevalence of varus knee in children of a higher age and higher playing levels is due to the selection bias of football players with varus knee or a real development of varus knee in individuals.

We aimed to (1) compare external training loads obtained in futsal players during pre-season and in-season training weeks to explore how these loads are periodized by the coaching staff; and (2) compare the external training loads using the match day minus approach during the pre-season and in-season periods to determine how the within-microcycle training load varies between these periods. A total of 432 recordings were obtained of twelve national-level male amateur players using IPS devices. These data were collected over four consecutive microcycles from the beginning to the end of the pre-season, as well as during four additional consecutive microcycles at the start of the in-season. The external load variables evaluated were: total distance covered (TD; m), relative distance covered (Drel; m/min), high-speed running (HSR; m > 18.8 km/h), sprint distance (SPR; m > 25.2 km/h), number of intense accelerations (ACC; >2.5 m/s2) and decelerations (DEC; >−2.5 m/s2). Results indicated significant week-by-week variation (p < 0.05) in all external load variables during the pre-season. During the in-season, significant variations (p < 0.05) were observed only in Drel, HSR, and ACC. In both phases, all variables were higher (p < 0.05) two days before the match. In conclusion, it is important to consistently quantify the external loads of futsal players to ensure appropriate variation in loading and tapering within the microcycle, as well as during the pre-season and in-season periods.

Integrating running gait coordination assessment into athlete monitoring systems could provide unique insight into training tolerance and fatigue-related gait alterations. This study investigated the impact of an overload training intervention and recovery on running gait coordination assessed by field-based self-testing. Fifteen trained distance runners were recruited to perform 1-week of light training (baseline), 2 weeks of heavy training (high intensity, duration, and frequency) designed to overload participants, and a 10-day light taper to allow recovery and adaptation. Field-based running assessments using ankle accelerometry and online short recovery and stress scale (SRSS) surveys were completed daily. Running performance was assessed after each training phase using a maximal effort multi-stage running test-to-exhaustion (RTE). Gait coordination was assessed using detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) of a stride interval time series. Two participants withdrew during baseline training due to changed personal circumstances. Four participants withdrew during heavy training due to injury. The remaining nine participants completed heavy training and were included in the final analysis. Heavy training reduced DFA values (standardised mean difference (SMD) = −1.44 ± 0.90; p = 0.004), recovery (SMD = −1.83 ± 0.82; p less than 0.001), performance (SMD = −0.36 ± 0.32; p = 0.03), and increased stress (SMD = 1.78 ± 0.94; p = 0.001) compared to baseline. DFA values (p = 0.73), recovery (p = 0.77), and stress (p = 0.73) returned to baseline levels after tapering while performance trended towards improvement from baseline (SMD = 0.28 ± 0.37; p = 0.13). Reduced DFA values were associated with reduced performance (r2 = 0.55) and recovery (r2 = 0.55) and increased stress (r2 = 0.62). Field-based testing of running gait coordination is a promising method of monitoring training tolerance in running athletes during overload training.

Prescribing correct training loads in strength- and power-based sports is essential to eliciting performance improvements for athletes. Concurrently, testing strength for the prescription of training loads should be accurate and safe with minimal disruption or fatigue inducement to the athlete. The purpose of this study was to develop a prediction equation in female athletes for the three-repetition maximum (3RM) squat using the isometric mid-thigh pull and basic anthropometric assessments that could be practically applied to support training prescriptions. Female athletes (n = 34) were recruited from netball, volleyball, basketball, and soccer across a spectrum of competitive standards. Each athlete’s weight, standing height, seated height, arm span, and biacromial breadth were recorded, and then, on separate occasions separated by at least 48 h, each athlete completed a 3RM squat test and an isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) assessment. IMTP variables of peak force and time-dependent force at 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 ms, as well as anthropometric measures, were used to develop a prediction equation. Squat strength was low-to-moderately correlated with peak force (r = 0.386); force at 100 ms (r = −0.128), 150 ms (r = −0.040), and 200 ms (r = −0.034); standing height (r = 0.294); and biacromial breadth (r = −0.410). Stepwise multiple regression significantly (p < 0.05) explained 26% of the 3RM squat strength variation using peak force and force at 100 ms, resulting in the following equation: Predicted 3RM squat (kg) = [6.102 + (Peak Force × 0.002) − (Force@100 ms × 0.001)]2. The reported equation’s predictive accuracy was tested using the same testing protocols following 6–8 weeks of training in a sub-cohort of athletes (n = 14). The predicted and actual recorded 3RM values were not significantly (p = 0.313) different, supporting the use of the IMTP as a test that contributes informative values for use in a predictive equation for training prescription and thus reducing the testing and fatigue-inducing impost on female athletes. However, the 95% CI (−4.18–12.09) indicated predicted values could differ in excess of 10 kg. This difference could lead to an excessive load prescription for an athlete’s training program, indicating caution should be taken if using the described method to predict 3RM squat values for programming purposes.

Purpose: Staying injury free is a major factor for success in sports. Although injuries are difficult to forecast, novel technologies and data-science applications could provide important insights. Our purpose was to use machine learning for the prediction of injuries in runners, based on detailed training logs. Methods: Prediction of injuries was evaluated on a new data set of 74 high-level middle- and long-distance runners, over a period of 7 years. Two analytic approaches were applied. First, the training load from the previous 7 days was expressed as a time series, with each day's training being described by 10 features. These features were a combination of objective data from a global positioning system watch (eg, duration, distance), together with subjective data about the exertion and success of the training. Second, a training week was summarized by 22 aggregate features, and a time window of 3 weeks before the injury was considered. Results: A predictive system based on bagged XGBoost machine-learning models resulted in receiver operating characteristic curves with average areas under the curves of 0.724 and 0.678 for the day and week approaches, respectively. The results of the day approach especially reflect a reasonably high probability that our system makes correct injury predictions. Conclusions: Our machine-learning-based approach predicts a sizable portion of the injuries, in particular when the model is based on training-load data in the days preceding an injury. Overall, these results demonstrate the possible merits of using machine learning to predict injuries and tailor training programs for athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the effects of including repeated sprints in a weekly low-intensity (LIT) session during a 3-week transition period on cycling performance 6 weeks into the subsequent preparatory period (PREP) in elite cyclists. Methods: Eleven elite male cyclists (age = 22.0 [3.8] y, body mass = 73.0 [5.8] kg, height = 186 [7] cm, maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max] = 5469 [384] mL·min−1) reduced their training load by 64% and performed only LIT sessions (CON, n = 6) or included 3 sets of 3 × 30-second maximal sprints in a weekly LIT session (SPR, n = 5) during a 3-week transition period. There was no difference in the reduction in training load during the transition period between groups. Physiological and performance measures were compared between the end of the competitive period and 6 weeks into the PREP. Results: SPR demonstrated a 7.3% (7.2%) improvement in mean power output during a 20-minute all-out test at PREP, which was greater than CON (−1.3% [4.6%]) (P =.048). SPR had a corresponding 7.0% (3.6%) improvement in average VO2 during the 20-minute all-out test, which was larger than the 0.7% (6.0%) change in CON (P =.042). No change in VO2max, gross efficiency, or power output at blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1 from competitive period to PREP occurred in either group. Conclusion: Including sprints in a weekly LIT session during the transition period of elite cyclists provided a performance advantage 6 weeks into the subsequent PREP, which coincided with a higher performance VO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate the optimal pretaper duration on match running performance in a professional soccer team. Methods: The training load was monitored during daily training sessions and matches during 2 seasons according to different periodization strategies. Matches' running distances were collected using match analysis system. The data were analyzed in 3 types of mesocycle blocks of 5 (M5), 4 (M4), and 3 weeks (M3), concludes all of them by 1 taper week. Results: Significant decreases in the training load during the taper weeks compared to standard weeks were observed in 3 types of mesocycle blocks (d ≥ 5; P <.01). An increase in overall match running performance was observed in matches played after the taper weeks compared to matches played after the standard weeks during M4 for all speed ranges (d ≥ 1.3; P <.05). The increase was only observed in low-intensity running (d = 1.3; P <.04) and total distance, low-intensity running, and intense running (d ≥ 1.3; P <.05) in M5 and M3, respectively. Match running performance following the taper weeks between the 3 different mesocycle durations was significantly higher in M4 for the number of high-speed running, sprinting, and high-intensity running (P <.05). The greatest enhancement of match running performance was observed at M4 when the training load was decreased by approximately 18% during the tapering period. Conclusion: This study suggests that a period of 3 standard weeks of training followed by 1 taper week is the optimal taper strategy when compared to different pretaper durations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To analyze the relationships between the evolution of training-load values and countermovement jump (CMJ) as an indicator of stress and fatigue in a high-level 800-m runner during a whole season, including indoor (ID) and outdoor season (OD). Methods: Over 42 weeks, daily training load was quantified as the result of the product of the intensity and volume, and it was termed load index (LI). CMJ was measured in every running session after warm-up and immediately after the last effort of the session. Other jump-related variables such as CMJ height loss, average weekly CMJ, initial CMJ of the next consecutive session, and initial CMJ of the following week were studied. Results: A significant negative relationship was observed between LI and weekly CMJ (ID: r = −.68, P <.001, common variance [CV] = 46%; OD: r = −.73, P <.001, CV = 53%), initial CMJ of the following week (OD: r = −.71, P <.01, CV = 50%), and CMJ height loss (ID: r = −.58, P <.01, CV = 34%; OD: r = −.52, P <.01, CV = 27%). A significant positive relationship was observed between LI and initial CMJ of the next consecutive session when LI values were <8 (OD: r =.72; P <.01, CV = 52%). However, from values ≥8, the relationship turned into a significant negative one (ID: r = −.74; P <.01, CV = 55%; OD: r = −64, P <.01, CV = 41%). Conclusions: CMJ may be a valid indicator of the degree of stress or fatigue generated by specific training sessions of a competitive athlete within a single session, a week, or even the following week. There could be an individual limit LI value from which the training volume does not allow a positive effect on high-speed actions such as a CMJ in the next consecutive session. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare the external load of professional goalkeepers (GKs) in different training sessions of the microcycle. Three professional GKs (age: 28.1±6.9 years; stature: 190.1±1.9 cm; body mass: 84.8±1.1 kg) were monitored by GPS devices during different training sessions according to the days since/until the match day (MD) at MD+1, MD-4, MD-3, MD-2 and MD-1. Different external load measures were calculated: total distance, distance covered at > 14 km· h −1 , acceleration load, player load, number of dives, dive load, number of explosive efforts of displacement, number of low intensity ( 0.4 m) and medium-high intensity jumps (> 0.3 m). The results showed that there is a decrease in the external load as the GKs’ training sessions approach the match, with the lowest value of external load observed at MD-1, and the highest external loads at MD+1 and MD-4. This analysis of the external load demands of professional soccer GKs provides new information that will be useful to inform professionals when planning and implementing training and/or recovery strategies for soccer GKs during the microcycle.

Professional soccer involves varying numbers of training sessions and matches each week, which can influence load distribution. Understanding the exact distribution may allow appropriate load periodisation and planning for players. Thus, this study aimed to (i) compare accumulated load and wellness between weeks with different numbers of training sessions and (ii) compare training/match ratio (TMr) of external and internal load between weeks with different numbers of training sessions. Ten players with a minimum of 45 minutes of weekly match-play were analysed over 16 weeks. The microcycle structures consisted of three (3dW), four (4dW), five (5dW) and six (6dW) training sessions plus match-day per week. The following measures were used for analysis: duration, fatigue, quality of sleep, muscle soreness, stress, mood, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), session-RPE (s-RPE), high-speed running distance (HSR), sprint distance (SPD), number of accelerations (ACC) and decelerations (DEC). Accumulated wellness/load were calculated by adding all training and match sessions, while TMr was calculated by dividing accumulated load by match data. The main results showed that accumulated wellness and load were significantly different, with moderate to very large effect sizes, except regarding mood, duration, s-RPE, SPD during 5dW vs. 6dW and s-RPE, HSR, SPD, ACC and DEC during 3dW vs. 4dW (all p > 0.05). Moreover, 6dW was significantly higher than 4dW regarding TMr of duration (p < 0.05, moderate effect size), RPE, HSR and SPD (all p < 0.05 with very large effect sizes) and for 3dW of HSR and ACC (p < 0.05 with very large effect sizes). This study showed that 5dW and 6dW had higher training measures than 3dW or 4dW. Additionally, higher wellness was presented in the microcycles with higher training frequencies. These findings suggest that physical load and wellness were not adjusted according to the number of training sessions within a microcycle.

Abstract Background The objective of this study was to establish the criterion-related validity of the session-rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE) method in adolescent athletes. Methods According to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) guidelines, a meta-analysis (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022373126) was performed using Stata 15.1 software. Eight databases using the following terms: (‘s-RPE’ OR ‘Rating Perceived Exertion session’ OR ‘RPE session’ OR ‘RPE’ OR ‘Rate of Perceived Exertion’ OR ‘Rated of Perceived Exertion’) AND (‘Adolescen*’ OR ‘Youth*’ OR ‘Teen*’) AND (‘validity’ OR ‘correlation’ OR ‘concurrent validity’) were searched up to 2022. Articles meeting the inclusion criteria were screened and adopted the “Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS)” to evaluate the risk of bias. Results An initial 1798 studies using the s-RPE method were identified and finally, a total of 16 studies were included for further analysis. The relationship between assessment instruments CR-10 or CR-100 modified methods of s-RPE and the heart rate measures of these selected studies were calculated using correlation coefficient (r values) and Fisher’s z-score. A strong to very strong correlation between s-RPE and HR was observed (overall: r = 0.74; CR-10: r = 0.69; CR-100: r = 0.80). CR-100 scale (Fisher’s z = 1.09) was shown to have a higher criterion validity than that of the CR-10 scale (Fisher’s z = 0.85). Conclusion Preliminary findings showed that s-RPE using either CR-10 or CR-100 scales can be used "stand-alone" for monitoring internal training load for children and adolescent athletes. Future studies should focus on whether CR-100 could better perform than CR-10 for junior and children athletes in different age groups and sports as well as the causes leading to potential scoring biases.

The aims of the current study were to determine the most demanding passages of match play (MDP) and the distribution of match activities relative to maximum intensities during official matches in topclass women soccer players. Twenty-eight women players competing in European championship and international UEFA competitions were monitored during 38 official matches (277 individual samples). Maximum relative (m·min −1 ) total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSRD), very high-speed running (VHSRD), sprint, acceleration and deceleration distances were calculated across different durations (1–5, 10, 15, 90 min) using a rolling average analysis. Maximum intensities (1-min peak ) were used as the reference value to determine the distribution of relative intensity across the whole-match demands (90-min avg ). Time and distance higher than 90-min avg (> 90-min avg ) were also calculated. MDP showed moderate to very large [effect size (ES): 0.63/5.20] differences between 1-min peak vs all durations for each parameter. The relative (m ·min −1 ) 1-min peak was greater than 90-min avg of about +63% for TD, +358% for HSRD, +969% for VHSRD, +2785% for sprint, +1216% for acceleration, and +768% for deceleration. The total distance covered > 90-min avg was ~66.6% of the total distance covered during the 90-min avg for TD, ~84.8% for HSRD, ~97.4% for VHSRD, ~100% for sprint, ~99.1% for acceleration and ~98.2% for deceleration. The relative distance > 90-min avg was higher ( P < 0.05) than the 90-min avg for each metric (ES: 2.22 to 7.58; very large). The present results may help coaches and sport scientists to replicate the peak demands during training routine in top-class women soccer players.

Background. Pace bowling is the most injury susceptible position in cricket due to repeated high intensity maneuvers. Previous studies on pace bowlers have considered anthropometric, biomechanical, and kinesiological factors for deciphering the injury etiology. Study purpose. The purpose of this study was to prospectively investigate the association of body composition parameters with the incidence of musculoskeletal injuries among pace bowlers in cricket. Materials and methods. A total of 44 healthy professional male pace bowlers (N=44; Age: 22.89±4.5 years; Height: 176±9 cm; Body weight: 76.34±8.09 kg; BMI: 21.4±3.1) were recruited from various cricket academies. They were assessed on anthropometrics, body composition, and aerobic fitness before the start of Indian cricket season (typically mid-September). Any non-contact sports injury accounting for significant time loss during the season was recorded followed by assessment of change in body composition status among injured and non-injured pace bowlers. Results. We found hamstring injury as the most prevalent injury (05/12). Lower back injury accounted for highest severity with time loss of 48 matches. Injured pace bowlers underwent higher training volume (hours/day; p=.009) prior to injury incidence, were significantly heavier, and had greater volume of total body water. All the pace bowlers gained significant amount of fat-free mass (FFM) from pre- to post-season. Conclusions. Higher training workload and higher body weight were associated with more injury risk among pace bowlers. Further research accommodating other predictive factors of body composition and psychomotor learning must be carried out to precisely predict injury risk among pace bowlers in cricket.