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Purpose: To (1) examine within-individual player dose–response associations between selected training-load measures and changes in aerobic fitness level via submaximal exercise heart rate (HRex%) and (2) measure the relationships between these dose–response associations with basal HRex% (to study the influence of fitness level on dose–response relationship). Methods: During an in-season phase, selected training-load measures including total minutes, total distance, mechanical work (the sum number of accelerations and decelerations > 3 m2), high metabolic load distance, and Edwards' training impulse were collected via Global Positioning System and heart-rate sensors for analyzing accumulated load. A submaximal warm-up test was used repeatedly before and after 9 phases to elicit HRex% and track fitness changes at an individual level. Results: Negative to positive extensive ranges of within-individual associations were found among players for different metrics (r = −.84 to.89). The relationship between pooled HRex% (basal fitness) and dose–response correlations showed inverse very large (r = −.71) and large (r = −.65) values for accumulated weekly minutes and distance. However, moderate values were found for all other measures (r = −.35 to −.42). Conclusions: Individual players show extensive different ranges of dose–response associations with training measures. The dose–response association is influenced by players' fitness level, and players with lower fitness levels show stronger inverse relationships with accumulated minutes and total distance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was 2-fold: (1) to examine the relationships between psychophysiological responses and locomotor demands with variations in technical performance during 2v2 and 4v4 conditioned games and (2) to compare psychophysiological and locomotor responses among players exhibiting higher and lower technical performance levels during the conditioned games. Methods: Twenty-four male youth soccer players (16.3 ± 0.8 y old) participating at the trained/developmental level underwent monitoring for psychophysiological responses (including heart rate, rating of perceived exertion, and visual analog scale), locomotor demands (such as distance covered), and technical performance variables (including successful and unsuccessful passes and shots, as well as lost balls) across 2v2 and 4v4 formats. These formats were applied 4 times within a single session and were replicated twice over 2 weeks. Results: Large correlations between the number of lost balls per minute and mean heart rate were found in both the 2v2 and 4v4 games (r =.586 and r =.665, respectively). Successful shots were inversely and largely correlated with mean heart rate (r = −.518) in 4v4 games. The number of interceptions per minute was inversely and significantly correlated with the visual analog scale in 2v2 and 4v4 games (r = −.455 and r = −.710, respectively). The frequency of lost balls was significantly higher among players who attained a higher mean heart rate (2v2: +42.9%, P =.031, d = −0.965; 4v4: +57.1%, P <.001, d = −2.072). Conclusions: Coaches should be aware that highly psychophysiologically demanding scenarios may significantly impair technical performance. Therefore, prioritizing technical performance by deliberately adjusting the intensity should be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of physical performance indicators and assess the levels of performance monotony and strain experienced by basketball referees. Methods: The study involved the participation of 12 basketball referees (mean age: 40.0 [4.9] y) affiliated with the International Basketball Federation. The investigation was carried out throughout 2 density tournaments, wherein the maximum heart rate, average heart rate, performance monotony, and performance strain were documented for 3 variables. Results: The findings indicated significant variations in the mean heart rate, maximum heart rate, total distance monotony, total distance strain, the total number of sprints monotony, the total number of sprints strain, calories monotony, and calories strain (P <.05). Decreasing the density of elite-level basketball competitions has been observed to reduce the monotony and strain experienced by referees. However, this action does not increase motion distance or speed zones. Conclusions: The environmental stressors experienced by senior-level athletes (World Cup) differ from those encountered by younger athletes (World Cup Under 19). Further investigation is required to ascertain the potential effects of competition monotony and strain on decision-making processes and the overall quality of refereeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To systematically review the physical, physiological, perceptual, and technical–tactical demands of official 3 × 3 basketball games. Methods: The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were systematically searched to identify studies assessing physical, physiological, perceptual, and technical–tactical demands of 3 × 3 games. Data were also coded according to player sex and tournament phase. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed using a modified Downs and Black checklist. Results: Thirteen articles were finally included, with a mean quality of 8.6 (1.1) out of 11. Three-by-three basketball games have an intermittent profile (1:1 work–rest ratio), with a duration of ∼15 minutes, and are characterized by short (6–8 s) ball possessions and considerable physical (17–33 accelerations, 24–44 decelerations, 62–94 changes of directions, and 17–24 jumps per game) and physiological (lactate: ∼6.2 mmol·L−1) demands. Overall, the game performance profile is similar in males and females, with minor changes happening across tournament phases. Several key technical–tactical indicators were identified as discriminating winning and losing teams, such as better shooting and defensive efficiency, low number of turnovers, and implementing tactical actions involving more players, passing first, and ending possessions with shots from outside of the arch from the top of the key. Conclusions: Three-by-three basketball is an intermittent, physically demanding sport characterized by quick plays and specific tactical constraints. This review provides information that should be considered by performance staff to improve training prescription, game tactical plans, and for player selection and talent identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field‐based team sports typically perform mixed‐modality training, incorporating both field‐ and resistance‐based sessions. As such, the availability of useful and reliable methods to monitor the internal and external training loads of all modalities is essential for planning effective training. Twenty‐one junior developmental female rugby league athletes (age: 17.5 ± 0.5 years, height: 167.7 ± 4.6 cm, body mass: 71.1 ± 12.9 kg, and training age: 2.3 ± 1.1 year) performed two to three resistance training sessions a week for 20 weeks (9 weeks preseason and 11 weeks in‐season). The volume load method and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) were used to quantify the external and internal load of the resistance training sessions, respectively. Volume load was categorised into either dynamic, plyometric, maximal or repeated efforts. Multiple linear mixed models were performed to determine whether significant relationships were present between the changes in volume load components and sRPE throughout the season. Significant relationships were identified between a decrease in sRPE, with associated increases in absolute and relative overall volume load (T1,725.5 = −2.1, p = 0.04; T1,133.5 = −2.2, p = 0.03), and relative dynamic (T1,24.1 = −8.4, p < 0.01) and lower‐body plyometric efforts (T1,16.8 = −17.2, p < 0.01). Conversely, significant relationships were observed between an increase in sRPE, with associated increases in relative lower‐body (T1,20.3 = 12.9, p < 0.01) and upper‐body repeated efforts (T1,28.5 = 9.7, p = 0.03) as well as relative upper‐body plyometric (T1,71.1 = 2.9, p = 0.01) and maximal efforts (T1,75.3 = 3.4, p < 0.01). These findings highlight the practicality of the volume load method for planning and monitoring resistance training in field‐based team sport athletes, providing useful data for the planning of specific exercises within the in‐season training week. Highlights: The volume load method is a practical tool for monitoring and planning resistance training due to the significant relationships observed between changes in volume load components with alterations in sRPE throughout a competitive season.Increases in absolute and relative overall volume loads, as well as relative dynamic and lower‐body plyometric efforts, were associated with significantly lower perceived difficulty (sRPE).A greater volume of lower‐body and upper‐body repeat efforts as well as upper‐body plyometric and maximal efforts had a significantly higher psychophysiological perception of training intensity.Practitioners should consider implementing the volume load method for monitoring and planning resistance training sessions in field‐based team sports, calculating the associations between resistance training types and perceived difficulty within their cohort, to facilitate better in‐season planning and prescription. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of acute hypoxic exposure on mechanical output and internal responses during cycling with heart rate (HR) clamped at lactate thresholds 1 and 2 (LT1 and LT2, respectively) were investigated. On separate days, 12 trained males cycled for 15 min at a clamped HR corresponding to LT1 and LT2 under normoxic or hypoxic conditions (simulated altitude of ∼3500 m and inspired oxygen fraction of 13.6%). Power output (PO), arterial oxygen saturation, ventilatory and perceptual responses were measured every 3 min, with metabolic response assessed pre‐ and post‐exercise. At LT1, PO was consistently lower in hypoxia compared to normoxia (p < 0.01). At LT2, PO was not different between normoxia and hypoxia at 3 and 6 min (both p > 0.42) but was significantly lower in hypoxia at 9, 12 and 15 min (all p < 0.04). Overall, hypoxia induced a greater decrease in PO at LT1 (−33.3% ± 11.3%) than at LT2 (−18.0 ± 14.7%) compared to normoxia. Ventilatory, perceptual and metabolic responses were influenced by exercise intensity (all p < 0.01) but not environmental conditions (all p > 0.17). A simulated altitude of ∼3500 m is more effective in reducing cycling PO at LT1 than LT2 during HR clamped cycling while maintaining other internal loads. Therefore, normobaric hypoxia provides a greater benefit via a larger decrease in the mechanical constraints of exercise at lower exercise intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare external match load, according to match outcome, match location, and opponent quality across five competitive seasons. Forty-six professional outfield soccer players from the same English Premier League club across the complete 2018/19 to 2022/23 seasons were... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was twofold: to analyse physical performance fluctuations throughout match play in women's handball; and to investigate whether physical performance fluctuations are affected by contextual factors (i.e., level of the opponent and playing positions). Twenty-two female... [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.)

The present study was designed to investigate two aspects. Firstly, analysis of variations in acute load, chronic load, workload, monotony, and training strain during the preseason (PS), first and second half of the season (1st HS, 2nd HS, respectively). Secondly, comparing these indicators of training load in player's positions. Twenty-two elite soccer players from the Premier League of Iran (age: 27.2 4.5 years, professional experience: 6.2 4.3 years) were involved in this study. Players were monitored daily for 45 weeks through an 18 Hz global positioning system (GPS), to gather data on total distance, distance running at 14 km/h (moderate intensity running), and distance running at a speed above 19.8 km/h (high-intensity running). One-way analysis of variance, followed by Tukey HSD post hoc test were applied to analyze data. The pre-season has a significantly higher amount of acute load, chronic load, monotony and training strain, of total running, and moderate-intensity running than the first half (p < 0.05) and the second half (p < 0.05). When comparing these training load indicators for high-intensity running, a significant difference was only observed between the PS and the 2nd HS (p < 0.05). Also, no significant differences were observed between positions in total running and moderate intensity running. However, training load indices based on high-intensity running between positions showed significant differences between external defenders vs center backs, midfielders and strikers. Furthermore, wingers had a significant difference in high-intensity running compared to central defenders (p < 0.05) and midfielders (p < 0.05, for all). To conclude, this study demonstrated that acute load, chronic load, monotony, and training strain were more prevalent in the pre-season and slowly decreased during the season. External defenders and wingers experienced more acute load, chronic load, monotony, and training strain for high-intensity running during the season compared to other positions. Therefore, the results indicate that pre-season had a higher physical load than competition season, and player's positions experienced varying physical loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Altered scapular kinematics is associated with shoulder pain. Resistance exercise is a common treatment; however, the effects of lifting an external load on scapular kinematics is limited. Understanding whether an external handheld load affects scapular kinematics in a healthy population can provide normal values utilized for comparison to individuals with shoulder pain. Currently, no studies have examined the effect of incrementally increased handheld loads. We defined the effects of varying external handheld loads on scapular kinematics during a shoulder elevation task. Healthy participants (n = 50) elevated their shoulder in the scapular plane over 4 trials. One trial of no loading (control) and 3 trials with incrementally increased external handheld loads. Scapular kinematic rotations and translations were measured during ascent and descent phases using 3D motion capture. Compared to no load, the highest external load during ascent increased scapular elevation [mean difference = 3.2 degrees (95%CI: 0.9, 5.4), p = 0.006], and during descent increased scapular elevation [mean difference = 3.9 degrees (95%CI: 2.8, 5.1), p < 0.001] and increased scapular upward rotation [mean difference = 4.5 degrees (95%CI: 2.4, 6.6), p < 0.001]. External handheld loads result in small increases in scapular elevation and scapular upward rotation. These results should be utilized as normal values to compare to individuals with shoulder pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of consecutive basketball games on the physical demands and well-being of young players under 18 years old (U-18), focusing on the peak demands (PD). Monitoring 17 players over 10 games (5 weekends), external load expressed as relative distance (RD) (m·min−1), high-speed running distance covered (HSR) (m·min−1), maximal accelerations (ACC) (n·min−1), and maximal decelerations (DEC) (n·min−1) normalized by playing time were assessed, and the Hooper index was used to evaluate wellness status. Additionally, linear mixed models and generalized linear mixed models were employed to detect differences, revealing a significant decrease in RD·min−1 (F = 4.71, p = 0.04) during the second back-to-back game. ACC·min−1 also exhibited significant differences (χ2 = 6.44, p = 0.01) between players in one or two games. However, the PD remained unchanged. Conversely, the Hooper index significantly improved between games (2.67 arb. u. [95% CI 0.11–5.24]; p = 0.04, d = 1.25 large), indicating enhanced well-being on the second competition day. Although RD·min−1 differences suggest the onset of residual fatigue, U-18 teams seem to adapt correctly to a two-game schedule through player auto-regulatory pacing and squad rotation. The positive change in wellness on the second day suggests a need for a comprehensive approach to assessing basketball performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

External (EL) and internal (IL) load are commonly used methods used to quantify training load in team sports. Playing time and playing position may influence the training loads for specific athletes throughout a season. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effect of athlete playing status and individual in-season practices on EL and IL across a collegiate women's basketball season. Female basketball athletes were classified as high-minute (HMA; ≥15 min/game) or low-minute (LMA; <15 min/game) and wore microsensors during 53 practices for a total of 583 data points. EL was obtained via an inertial measurement unit (IMU) device that contained a triaxial accelerometer to obtain three-dimensional positioning data. IL and strength training (ST) load were determined via session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) to create a daily summated value. Descriptive statistics indicate that athletes experienced individual differences in EL, ST, and IL throughout the season. A growth model showed that HMAs experienced higher EL than LMAs at the start of the season for practices (90.21 AU). Across all athletes, IL increased across the season (40.11 AU) and for each 1 unit of change in EL, IL increased by 1.04 AU. Repeated measures correlations identified a large relationship between IL and EL (r = 0.51, p < 0.001). A location-scale model indicated that the within-person variability of IL across all athletes was 3.29 AU but was not due to athlete playing status. It is recommended to base in-season training on individual loads and game demands to promote athlete readiness and improved sport performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to compare the internal and external load in continuous and intermittent small-sided games (SSG) formats. Eight semi-professional soccer players participated in the study, and they completed three protocols: (a) I-intermittent SSG protocol (Int-I, 4 sets of 4 min with a 3 min recovery); (b) Continuous SSG protocol (Con, 2 sets of 8 min with a 3 min recovery); (c) II-SSG protocol (Int-II, 4 sets of 4 min, where each set includes 1 min of exercise with varying recovery periods (10, 20, 30 s), with a 3 min recovery period between sets). A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to analyze the dependent variables, with significance determined at p < 0.05. The three protocols differed in total distance covered and in distance covered at speeds >19 km/h, with the Int-II protocol resulting in the greatest distance covered (p < 0.05). Additionally, players in the Con protocol exercised at a higher percentage of their maximum heart rate (%HRmax) (p < 0.05), while the highest RPE value was observed in the Int-I interval protocol (p < 0.05). The external load experienced by players in intermittent SSG protocols is higher, while internal load (%HRmax) remains relatively low. This effect is especially notable in the new intermittent exercise model proposed in this study, which incorporates progressively increasing recovery times within each exercise set. Coaches can use this model to increase players' external load without causing a heightened perception of fatigue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Repetitive high-impact movements cause growth-related injuries in children. This study aimed to identify which movements during junior football games require >6 G and >8 G acceleration and the frequency at which they occur. Additionally, we compared the components of acceleration among movements with >8 G resultant acceleration. Eleven young male footballers (10.7 ± 0.4 years) played 8-a-side games while wearing a tri-axial accelerometer on their upper back. The number and frequency of the movements that generated >6 G and >8 G were calculated, and each directive acceleration of the top five items was compared using two-way ANOVA to examine the effect of movements. The frequency of movements that generated >6 G and >8 G acceleration during junior football games was 8.70 case/min and 2.62 case/min, respectively. The top five >8 G movements were braking and pre-braking in shuffle, slowdown, stop, and run/jog items. The vertical acceleration was significantly greater during braking in shuffle than during slowdown, stop, and run/jog and also greater during stop and pre-braking in shuffle than during run/jog movement. This pilot study suggests that decelerated movements mainly provoked high-impact situations and may be key actions for preventing overuse injury in young footballers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to analyse the consequences of a congested schedule (due to the COVID-19 lockdown) on creatine kinase (CK) in elite football players using GPS tracking technology. A total of 17 elite football players were monitored in training and competition with a global positioning system. Variables including total distance, high-intensity distance, and distance acceleration and deceleration were analysed. Different measurements of serum creatine kinase (CK) concentration were performed on match day (MD) and at 24 h (MD+1), 48 h (MD+2), and 72 h (MD+3) after each match to study the muscle damage of each individual player caused during the match. The results showed a significant increase in physical demands in training (in relative terms regarding the match) at MD+3 compared to MD+1 and MD+2. Furthermore, at +72 h, CK decreases to a value almost the same as that before MD. On the other hand, the players with lower demands for high-intensity actions in the match showed a higher reduction in the concentration of CK at MD+3 compared to MD+1 and MD+2 (p < 0.05). It became evident that players with high-intensity demand and a high number of accelerations and decelerations need more time to assimilate the match load and can remain in a state of muscle fatigue for up to 3 days. In addition, a congested schedule can lead to a state of chronic fatigue in elite football players, limiting physical performance and possibly increasing the potential risk of injury for football players. [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.)

Altered scapular kinematics is associated with shoulder pain. Resistance exercise is a common treatment; however, the effects of lifting an external load on scapular kinematics is limited. Understanding whether an external handheld load affects scapular kinematics in a healthy population can provide normal values utilized for comparison to individuals with shoulder pain. Currently, no studies have examined the effect of incrementally increased handheld loads. We defined the effects of varying external handheld loads on scapular kinematics during a shoulder elevation task. Healthy participants (n = 50) elevated their shoulder in the scapular plane over 4 trials. One trial of no loading (control) and 3 trials with incrementally increased external handheld loads. Scapular kinematic rotations and translations were measured during ascent and descent phases using 3D motion capture. Compared to no load, the highest external load during ascent increased scapular elevation [mean difference = 3.2 degrees (95%CI: 0.9, 5.4), p = 0.006], and during descent increased scapular elevation [mean difference = 3.9 degrees (95%CI: 2.8, 5.1), p

Abstract Background Limited research has investigated the association between training load and performance of basketball players during games. Little is known about how different indicators of player performance are affected by internal and external loads. The purpose of this study was to determine whether external and internal loads influence basketball players’ performance during games. Method This longitudinal study involved 20 professional male basketball players from a single team, classified as first-level athletes by the Chinese Basketball Association. During 34 games, external load was measured as PlayerLoad using micro-sensors, while internal load was assessed using session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). Player performance was quantified using three metrics: Efficiency, Player Index Rating (PIR), and Plus-Minus (PM). Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the strength of the relationships between training loads and performance metrics. Linear mixed-effects models were applied to further analyze the influence of internal and external loads on basketball performance. Results Pearson correlation analysis revealed moderate positive correlations between both sRPE and PlayerLoad with Efficiency and PIR. Specifically, sRPE (r = 0.52) and PlayerLoad (r = 0.54) were both significantly correlated with Efficiency. For PIR, sRPE (r = 0.50) and PlayerLoad (r = 0.56) also demonstrated moderate correlations. These correlations were further substantiated by linear mixed-effects models, which showed that sRPE (β = 2.21, p

Purpose This study aimed to compare internal load (IL) and external load (EL) variables between blocks of a game-based Rugby Sevens training session. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. Twenty-eight professional athletes from the first division of the Brazilian national championship were monitored during a game-based training session, which consisted of varying durations of ball-in-play blocks. The training session comprised 4 blocks of 1 min, 2 blocks of 2 min, and 1 block of 3 min of ball-in-play, with 1-min intervals between blocks of the same duration and 2-min intervals between blocks of different durations. Results A reduction in EL was reported during longer bouts of ball-in-play. Specifically, a reduction was observed when comparing block 5 to block 1 ( p = 0.021) and when comparing block 7 with blocks 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 for distance per min. For accelerations and decelerations, blocks 5, 6, and 7 showed lower values than block 1 ( p = 0.001 and p = 0.005, respectively). Block 4 showed an increase in rate of perceived exertion (RPE) values compared to blocks 1 ( p = 0.010) and 2 ( p = 0.004). Increased RPE values were also found in block 5 compared to block 1 ( p = 0.001), as well as compared to blocks 2 ( p = 0.001) and 3 ( p = 0.002). RPE in block 7 was higher than in blocks 1, 2, 3, and 4 ( p = 0.001). Conclusions In summary, higher RPE values were reported across blocks, and IL appeared to be more volume-dependent.

The study aim was to compare physiological, physical, accumulated wellness and load markers within a European professional soccer team between starters and non-starters. Ten starters (age: 25.1 ± 2.2 years; experience: 7.3 ± 2.3 years) and eight non-starters (age: 26.1 ± 4.6; years’ experience: 8.3 ± 4.1 years) participated in the study. The study was conducted across 20 weeks where 75 training sessions and 15 matches occurred. Wellness (fatigue, quality of sleep, muscle soreness, stress and mood) and load (rating of perceived exertion (RPE), accelerations, decelerations, high-speed running and sprinting) measures were observed. Physiological evaluation consisted of a 1200 m maximum effort shuttle test while physical capacity assessment included isokinetic strength, jump ability and balance tests. Isokinetic tests were used to assess peak torque of both legs (extension and flexion at 60°/s and 180°/s), single squat jump and single hop jump were utilized to assess jump ability and Y-balance tests were employed to examine balance. Starters presented significantly higher values for peak torque extension of the non-dominant leg compared to non-starters (p = 0.038, effect size (ES) = 0.996), while non-starters showed higher values for both Y-balance postero-medial and postero-lateral (p = 0.009, ES = −1.309 and p = 0.021, ES = −1.133, respectively). Accumulated duration and RPE were lower for non-starters than starters (p ≤ 0.001, ES = 1.268, and p = 0.022, ES = 1.123, respectively). The physiological and physical tests conducted in this study do not seem to determine the starting status of players, considering that only one test revealed significantly higher values for starters. Despite the lower training and match duration for non-starters, this showed that it is possible to accumulate identical load while managing wellness regardless of starting status.

AbstractThe mechanical properties of ultrahigh-strength steel (UHSS) produced through the gradient thermoforming process (GTP) are significantly influenced by residual stress and deformation. However, the precise distribution of these factors during GTP remains unclear. To address this issue, a detailed thermal model is developed, incorporating key heat transfer mechanisms, including coupled heat conduction and radiation, using the method of separation of variables. Furthermore, the displacement and stress fields of UHSS rectangular plates are derived using the differential quadrature method (DQM), accounting for phase transitions and external load. The combination of the separation of variables and DQM methods significantly improves computational efficiency. Furthermore, this study presents the first analysis of the combined effects of thermal load, phase transitions, and external forces on UHSS rectangular plates. Finally, through a combination of theoretical analysis, experimental validation, and case studies, the influence of material properties, geometric parameters, and external load on the temperature, stress, and displacement fields is examined. The findings reveal that heating rate, phase transitions, and external load play a critical role in the stress and displacement distribution in UHSS plates during GTP. This research provides a theoretical foundation for optimizing GTP process parameters and material design, ultimately enhancing the quality and performance of UHSS components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Load monitoring has been identified as a valuable tool for optimizing training planning and minimizing injury risk. This study's aim was divided into two main objectives: (1) to describe the physical demands during official competition through IMU (inertial movement unit) metrics and (2) to investigate the relationship between basketball statistics and these physical demands. Twelve female highly trained basketballers (26.5 ± 5.3 years, 180 ± 7.1 cm, and 73.6 ± 10.3 kg) were monitored during four official games. Our results indicate that games with more frequent possession changes, particularly those driven by steals and turnovers, exhibit higher physical demands. Additionally, longer game durations were associated with longer recovery time while maintaining similar active time and physical load. Players who assume prominent shooting roles face greater conditional demands, such as increased jumps and impacts, even with equal playing time. These findings suggest that IMUs provide valuable insights into high-intensity actions and patterns, indicating a direct association between physical load and player performance in professional female basketball. This study also highlights the potential for professionals to better manage workload and understand player demands using these insights, even in the absence of in-game sensor data. Our research underscores the importance of contextual analysis in sports performance studies, encouraging future investigations into game phases and their specific physical demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the influence of contextual factors on physical demands is essential to maximize performance in handball. The purpose of this study was to explore and compare the influence of contextual factors (halves of the match, level of the opponent, match outcome and player role) on external load during official matches in women's handball. Twenty-two semi-professional female players from the Spanish 2nd Division were monitored across 13 official home matches. Total distance covered (TDC), high-speed running distance (HSR), high-intensity breaking distance (HIBD), accelerations (ACC), decelerations (DEC) and PlayerLoad (PL) were collected in absolute and relative values (normalized by playing time) using a local positioning system (WIMU PRO, Realtrack Systems S.L., Almería, Spain). HSR, HSR/min and HIBD/min decreased during the second half (p < 0.05; small effects). Regarding the level of the opponent, high-level and middle-level teams elicited higher TDC/min, HIBD/min and PL/min than low-level teams (p < 0.05; small-moderate effects). Additionally, starter players exhibited higher absolute values of external load (TDC, HSR, HIBD, ACC, DEC and PL) compared to non-starters (p < 0.05; moderate-large effects). Match outcome did not affect the physical demands (p > 0.05). The study indicated that halves of the match, level of the opponent, and player role influenced external load experienced by players during official matches; specifically, starter players showed higher absolute values of external load compared to non-starters. This information should be considered in managing load and developing strategies to minimize fatigue and enhance performance during matches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of this study were to: a) examine the relationships between high-intensity distances covered above generic and relative speed thresholds in English Premier League (EPL) matches across two consecutive seasons and b) analyze the effects of playing position and team possession. Sixteen elite male soccer players (seven defenders, six midfielders and three forwards) participated in this study (age 27.8 ± 3.5 years, height 183.7 ± 5.4 cm, body mass 83.9 ± 7.1 kg). An Optical Tracking System was used to collect the following variables: total distance covered; high-speed running distance (HSRD) (> 5.5 m/s); high-intensity running distance (HIRD) (5.5--7 m/s); sprint distance (> 7 m/s); total distance covered above Maximal Aerobic Speed (MAS); distance covered > 85% peak speed (PS); and distance > 30% Anaerobic Speed Reserve (ASR). All measures were analyzed as whole match totals and as distances covered in the periods of the team in possession (TIP), opponent team in possession (OTIP), and ball out of play (BOP). Analysis by position based on defenders, midfielders and forwards was also performed. Distance > 30% ASR was almost perfectly correlated with HSRD (r = 0.98), while distances > MAS were highly correlated with both HIRD (r = 0.91) and HSRD (r = 0.91), and distance > 85% PS were highly correlated with SD (r = 0.70). Although the generic and relative speed thresholds show almost perfect correlation, the differences between HSRD, HIRD and distance > MAS indicate that players may be exposed to more HIRD when using relative thresholds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the predictive accuracy of absolute and relative external load indices (ELI) across three machine learning models, and predict the rating of perceived exertion (RPE) of elite Gaelic football players using ELI, personal characteristics, wellness scores, and training workloads. ELI and related variables were collected from 49 elite Gaelic football players over three competitive seasons resulting in 1617 observations. ELI included total distance, high speed running distance (≥ 4.72 m · s-1number of accelerations and decelerations (n ± 3 m · s-2), expressed in both absolute and relative terms. Variables related to personal characteristics, wellness scores, and training workloads were also included. Data were analysed using decision tree, random forest (RF), and bootstrap aggregation (BS) models. The RF model had the highest predictive accuracy using absolute and relative ELI only, at 54.3% and 48.3%, respectively. Total and relative distance were the strongest predictors of RPE in the RF model, accounting for 38.8% and 27.9% of the normalised importance. The BS model had the highest accuracy at 67.0% and 65.2% for absolute and relative ELI when performed in conjunction with the related variables, respectively. The current models demonstrate potential to predict RPE and subsequently optimise training load in Gaelic football. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to describe and compare specific matchdays sessions and playing positions external load during congested fixtures in elite football when combining the objectives from two different training days in one session. Data was collected from 27 players from the 1st Brazilian division (28.7 ± 18.61 years) that participated in the following training days during congested fixtures (n = 16 weeks): a) Match day+1 (MD+1 n = 11); c) Matchday-1 (MD-1MD+2, session 1 day prior to subsequent match with tasks from MD-1 and MD+2 sessions, n = 12); and d) Matchday-1 (MD-1MD+3, session 1 day prior to subsequent match with tasks from MD-1 and MD+3 sessions, n = 11). External load was collected with global positioning systems, while internal load with the rating of perceived exertion (RPE). The MD+1MD-2 showed higher total distance covered (F = 116.92, p < 0.001) and player load (F = 56.67, p < 0.001) values than the other three training days, while both the MD+1MD-2 and MD-2MD+2 revealed higher distance covered at high-speed running (F = 22.43, p < 0.001) and high metabolic load distance covered (F = 75.98, p < 0.001) than both MD-1 sessions. Fullbacks covered higher high-speed running distance (F = 3.6, p = 0.033) than center backs, while midfelders reported higher RPE (F = 5.29, p = 0.003) values than defensive midfelders and fullbacks. Coaches may use the MD+1MD-2 to emphasize total distance covered, while both MD+1MD-2 and MD-2MD+2 to promote HSR and HML distance compared to MD-1 sessions. In addition, combining training sessions allows to normalize external load across playing positions with the exception of fullbacks that are exposed to higher stimulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Limited research has investigated the association between training load and performance of basketball players during games. Little is known about how different indicators of player performance are affected by internal and external loads. The purpose of this study was to determine whether external and internal loads influence basketball players' performance during games. Method: This longitudinal study involved 20 professional male basketball players from a single team, classified as first-level athletes by the Chinese Basketball Association. During 34 games, external load was measured as PlayerLoad using micro-sensors, while internal load was assessed using session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE). Player performance was quantified using three metrics: Efficiency, Player Index Rating (PIR), and Plus-Minus (PM). Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the strength of the relationships between training loads and performance metrics. Linear mixed-effects models were applied to further analyze the influence of internal and external loads on basketball performance. Results: Pearson correlation analysis revealed moderate positive correlations between both sRPE and PlayerLoad with Efficiency and PIR. Specifically, sRPE (r = 0.52) and PlayerLoad (r = 0.54) were both significantly correlated with Efficiency. For PIR, sRPE (r = 0.50) and PlayerLoad (r = 0.56) also demonstrated moderate correlations. These correlations were further substantiated by linear mixed-effects models, which showed that sRPE (β = 2.21, p < 0.001) and PlayerLoad (β = 1.87, p = 0.004) had significant independent effects on Efficiency. Similarly, sRPE (β = 2.15, p < 0.001) and PlayerLoad (β = 2.36, p < 0.001) significantly predicted PIR. Additionally, a significant interaction effect between PlayerLoad and sRPE was found on Plus-Minus (β = -2.49, p < 0.001), indicating that the combination of high physical and psychological loads negatively impacted overall team performance. However, the correlation strengths for Plus-Minus were relatively low (sRPE: r = 0.16; PlayerLoad: r = 0.10). Conclusion: Both external and internal loads positively contribute to performance, the integration of objective (accelerometry) and subjective (sRPE) measures of load provides a comprehensive understanding of the physiological and psychological demands on athletes, contributing to more effective training regimens and performance optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of ball-in/out-play, ball possession, and different moments of soccer match play on running performance in professional Brazilian soccer players. Methods: Twenty-four professional soccer players were monitored using GPS units during 14 matches from the Brazilian National 4th Division League. Distance- and accelerometry-based measures were calculated by dividing absolute values by the total duration of the matches. SBG Sports® generated a timeline of the match's duration to define ball-in-play, ball-out-play, ball possession, no-ball possession, offensive/defensive organizations, and offensive/defensive transitions. Results: Ball-in-play presented higher running outputs than ball-out-play, and no-ball possession reported greater all match running performance (i.e., high-intensity) variables than ball possession (p < 0.001–0.033; ES = large–very large). Greater running outputs were observed during the offensive/defensive transition compared to offensive/defensive organization (p < 0.001–0.039; ES = medium–very large). Additionally, physical demands were higher in defensive organization/transition vs. offensive organization/transition (p < 0.001–0.041; ES = medium–very large). In contrast, wide midfielders and strikers showed higher distances, high-speed running distance, and accelerations during the offensive transition than the defensive transition (p < 0.001–0.04; ES = very large). Conclusion: In conclusion, different phases and moments of the match of the match-play impact running performance in soccer. Coaches and practitioners should embrace a contextualized understanding of match physical demands, employing a holistic approach, to effectively prescribe training tasks aligned with real match requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigated how soccer players reach sprint speeds (> 25.2 km⋅h−1) and what that fixed threshold represents to each player regarding their individual match peak speeds registered during competition. Methods: Twenty professional players (n = 20) from a team competing in the Brazilian first division were monitored with a global navigation satellite system during six matches. All efforts with final speeds > 25.2 km⋅h−1 were analyzed according to starting speed, and accelerations' duration and magnitude. Peak speeds for each player were also retrieved and compared to the sprint threshold. Results: Most efforts > 25.2 km⋅h−1 (> 91%) start with very short accelerations (< 0.5 s). Efforts started predominately from high starting speeds (20–25 and > 25 km⋅h−1) than low starting speeds (< 5 and 5–10 km⋅h−1) with huge effect sizes (p < 0.001). Most accelerations had magnitudes between 1 and 3 m⋅s−2 (p < 0.05). The 25.2 km⋅h−1 threshold represented an intensity of 71–91% of players' match peak speed. Conclusion: The inclusion of accelerations and peak speeds associated to the sprinting events that occur > 25.2 km⋅h−1 was shown to be useful for further characterization of soccer sprinting performance. In addition, the fixed threshold fails to individualize players' capabilities and performances, misleading load demands performed by players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. The primary aim of this study was to asses the internal and external match demands of young beach soccer players during an official match. The secondary aim was to evaluate how these demands compared to those of 11-a-side soccer Materials and methods. The study involved 24 young soccer players under the age of 17 (all outfield players). Performance assessments were performed on a sand field (35 x 28 m) with beach soccer ball, over three 12-min periods. Internal physiological indicators (heart rate, RPE) and external indicators (total distance, distance/per minute, peak speed, ecc) were collected during and after the match. Results. The internal load values obtained show that the beach soccer competition imposes high cardio-vascular intensity on the young soccer player: about 70% of the distance covered results in a HR value between 80% and 100% of HRmax, with an average HR of about 95% of HRmax. The playing time for each player was 17.11±4.23 minutes. The total distance covered and the distance achieved per minute of play were 1733.21±280.76 meters and 83.95±6.29 meters, respectively. The equivalent distance was 1957.98±320.29 meters. The peak speed reached by the young soccer players was 20.01±0.97 km/h while the average speed observed was 5.12±0.52 km/h. The distance measured in moderate- and high-intensity running was significantly lower than the value of low-intensity running (p<0.05). The metabolic power intervals showed that the young soccer players ran 1480.46 ± 236.48 meters at low power, 199.45 ± 49.56 meters at high power, 46.13 ± 14.25 at very high power, and 7.43 ± 6.57 meters at maximum power. The values at high power (p<0.05), very high power (p<0.05) and maximum power (p<0.001) were significantly lower than those at low power. Conclusions. The performance profile of the young beach soccer player imposes high heart rate values and modest mechanical load during official competition. The performance profile is very different from that of the young 11-a-side soccer player. Beach soccer can be considered a sport that complements the physical condition of the 11-a-side soccer player. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Cuadernos de Psicología del Deporte is the property of Cuadernos de Psicologia 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 purpose of this study was twofold: to analyze and compare the influence of the final score of the match (close, balanced and unbalanced) on physical demands during official competitions in women's handball; and to investigate if the physical demands of each playing position are affected by the final score. Twenty-two semi-professional female players from the Spanish 2nd Division were monitored across 13 official matches. Total distance (TD), high-speed running (HSR), high-intensity braking distance (HIBD), accelerations (ACC), decelerations (DEC) and PlayerLoad (PL) were collected in absolute and relative values using a local positioning system (WIMU PRO™, Realtrack Systems S.L., Almería, Spain). Two-way ANOVA with partial Eta-squared and Cohen's d were used to determine the differences between playing positions and match types. Unbalanced (16.4±4.1 n·min-1) and balanced matches (15.2±3.8 n·min-1) elicited higher DEC/min than close matches (13.1±2.8 n·min-1) (p<0.001, moderate effects). In relation to playing positions, wings covered the largest TD and registered the highest values of PL in balanced and unbalanced matches (p<0.001, large effects). Also, wings presented the highest values of HIBD, HSR and HSR/min regardless of the final score (p<0.05, moderate effects). Moreover, wings performed largely more number of ACC and DEC compared to pivots in unbalanced matches (p<0.05, large effects). In conclusion, this study showed that the final score of the match influences the physical demands experienced by female handball players during official competitions. This information should be considered by coaches to adapt and periodize the training load across the microcycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article considers a theoretical flanged joint with a metal seal that has one or more wedged edges; the design of the flanged joint itself and the parts included in it are irrelevant. Theoretical research is conducted with the aim to design a method for calculating the angle of the wedged seal edge that ensures the minimum possible leakage of the sealed medium, all other conditions being equal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Machine Tool & Hydraulics is the property of Guangzhou Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (GMERI) 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 aims were to determine the relationship(s) between match-play external load and post-match neuromuscular fatigue as latent constructs, the contribution of the specific measured variables to these latent constructs, and how these differ between forwards and backs in elite rugby union. Forty-one elite male rugby union players (22 forwards and 19 backs) from the same international rugby union team were tested, with data included from the 2020 and 2021 international seasons (11 matches; 146 player appearances). Player's match-play external loads were quantified using microtechnology (for locomotor activities) and video analysis (for collision actions). Neuromuscular fatigue was quantified using countermovement jump tests on force plates which were conducted ~ 24 to 48 hours pre- and post-match. Partial least squares correlation (PLSC) leave one variable out (LOVO) procedure established the relative variable contribution to both external load (X matrix) and neuromuscular fatigue (Y matrix) constructs. Linear mixed-effects models were then constructed to determine the variance explained by the latent scores applied to the variables representing these constructs. For external load, both locomotor and collision variables were identified for the forwards and the backs, although the identified variables differed between groups. For neuromuscular fatigue, jump height was identified as a high contributor for the forwards and the backs, with concentric impulse and reactive strength index high contributors only for the backs. The explained variance between the external load and neuromuscular fatigue latent constructs at the individual player level was 4.4% and 32.2% in the forwards and the backs models, respectively. This discrepancy may be explained by differences in match-play external loads and/or the specificity of the tests to measure indicators of fatigue. These may differ due to, for example, the activities undertaken in the different positional groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microcycles are fundamental structures for training prescription and load management, helping to optimise training effects and performance. This study quantified external and internal loads of Italian Serie A youth soccer players across competitive weeks and their periodisation within microcycles. Data were collected from 90 players belonging to four age groups (under-19, -17, -16, -15) across a season. Methods of monitoring external [duration and global navigation satellite systems (GNSS)] and internal load [heart rate (HR) and rating of perceived exertion (RPE)] were employed. Linear mixed models determined differences in training loads across age groups, training days and player positions. Under-19 and under-17 players trained five times per week, while younger players trained four times. Late-stage academy players (under-19 and -17) demonstrated higher weekly accumulated external and sRPE training load compared to their younger counterparts (p < 0.05 between groups). Weekly accumulated HR internal loads were higher in under-15 players (p < 0.05 between groups). Marked fluctuations of daily load were observed across microcycles in under-19 and under-17 groups (p < 0.05 between days). These findings highlight progressive increases in training load throughout the development pathway, with late-stage academy players training with higher frequency, volume and marked periodisation compared to younger players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division III athletes have restrictive rules on preseason practice timelines leading to questions about how performances are affected by environmental conditions during preseason practices. Purpose: The purpose was to determine how heat, humidity, core body temperature, hydration status, and reported sleep affected the performances of women’s Division III soccer players during preseason training. Methods: Ten female collegiate soccer players (age=19.5±1.43 years, mass=62.14±5.01 kg, height=167.78±7.65 cm) were recruited. Core temperature was collected every 10 minutes during practice via an ingestable thermistor. Before each training session, participants recorded the previous night's sleep quantity and quality via the Karolinska Sleep Diary (KSD). Internal and external loads were monitored via heart rate, training load session rate of perceived exertion (TL-sRPE), and Global Position System (GPS) metrics. WetBulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) was continuously recorded throughout each training session as well as participant total fluid consumption. Results: TL-RPE, Δbody mass (ΔBM), ΔWBGT and maximum HR (maxHR) explained approximately 53% of the variance in intensity (r=0.73, F4,82=23.506, P0.05) impact on intensity. Conclusion: The changes in exercise intensity observed were most associated with the perceived training load, body mass loss, heat indices, and maximum heart rate. These variables should be controlled to elicit the desired training outcome while keeping player safety at the forefront during preseason soccer.

Introduction: Physical match actions are simulated through modified games. Pitch size and set configuration seems to influence the physical responses during small-sided games. Objective: The aim of the present study is to analyze the effects of pitch size and set configuration during small-sided games. Methodology: Fourteen young male field soccer players performed three small-sided games, involving 7 vs. 7 + 2 goalkeepers: 3 x 8 min with 5 min of rest between sets on a 68 x 40 m pitch (194 m2); same pitch area but 6 x 4 min with 2 min of rest (194 m2); and 6 x 4 min with 2 min of rest on a 40 x 34 m pitch (97 m2). Vertical jump, kick velocity and sprint were assessed to examine the residual fatigue before and after each small-sided game. Results: Larger pitch sizes showed significantly higher physical demands. Shorter bouts demanded greater distances at high intensity than longer bouts. A significant SSG x time interaction was observed for 10-m sprint time (P = 0.04), where a greater impairment was observed after completing 6 x 4 min (194 m2). Discussion: Higher external loads have been observed during games on larger pitches. A 4 min bout was provided as the optimal physical training stimulus. Conclusions: Larger pitch sizes and shorter bout durations are higher-demand games than smaller pitch sizes and longer bouts. Sprint performance is impaired after completing every small-sided game, especially acceleration capacity after completing modified games involving larger pitch areas and shorter bout durations.

The present study was conducted to examine the impact of external load on winning matches in football. The study group comprised players of the football team in the Spor Toto 1 st League. A total of 13 matches, including 6 won matches and 7 lost matches, were used in the analysis. The data on matches were taken from the 2022-2023 season of the Spor Toto 1st League. The following external load parameters were used in the analysis: total running distance (m), total high-speed running (HSR) distance, total sprint distance (m), acceleration distance (m), deceleration distance (m), ACD load, and maximum sprint reached (km/h). Data were collected with the wearable technology tracking system on football players during matches via GPS. The independent t-test was used in the program (SPSS 26.0) when analyzing normally distributed research data. The analysis of research data found a statistically significant difference in the total distance covered, total HSR distance, total sprint distance, and acceleration values among the external load results for the won and lost matches (p0.05). Consequently, it can be concluded that differences in many values that are considered necessary for success in the football field have an effect on winning matches in football. For values with no statistical difference, it may be recommended to conduct studies in a higher league, with more matches and more players.

Purpose: To evaluate whether sleep quantity and quality of professional hockey players is affected by external training load (TL), their perception of well-being, and contextual factors associated with match participation. Methods: Fifty male athletes were monitored daily during the 28 weeks of the regular season using well-being and sleep surveys. On-ice external TL was monitored using portable inertial measurement units during practices and matches. Linear mixed-effects models were applied to evaluate whether well-being perception (ie, pain, nutrition, stress, and rest) and external TL may affect sleep quality and quantity. Results: High levels of well-being positively affected sleep duration and quality (P <.001), whereas high-intensity TL had a detrimental impact on sleep duration (P =.007). Moreover, away and evening matches had a detrimental effect on sleep quantity and quality (P <.001). Finally, a high match on-ice load per minute had a negative association with sleep quality (P =.04). Conclusions: Findings indicate that well-being and high-intensity trainings can impair sleep duration and quality. In addition, high-intensity match load, away matches, and evening matches can impair postmatch sleep. Therefore, monitoring well-being in conjunction with TL is essential to understand sleep disturbances in athletes. Practitioners should also implement sleep hygiene strategies that facilitate longer time in bed after high-intensity, away, and evening matches to help athletes recover. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose In female football, a growing concern has emerged regarding assessing and monitoring strategies, particularly on locomotor activities. This study evaluated locomotor activities during training sessions and official matches of female football players according to their field position. Methods Twenty-four semi-professional female football players aged 20.1 ± 3.4 years were included in the analysis: five central defenders, four wide defenders, seven central midfielders, four wingers, and four forwards. Data collection included 105 training sessions and 26 official matches. The Global Positioning System examined distance variables, accelerations, and decelerations actions. Results Significant differences were observed in training sessions for total distance (p < 0.01). Wingers (5.60 ± 1.44 km) and wide defenders (5.42 ± 1.35 km) covered significantly greater total distances compared to the other field positions. During official matches, differences in players’ locomotor activities were more evident among field positions, particularly in sprinting (p < 0.01), and in the number of accelerations and decelerations (p < 0.01). Central defenders showed more distance covered in sprinting (77.8 ± 64.9 m), while wide defenders presented greater acceleration (44.3 ± 23.0) and deceleration actions (57.2 ± 26.5). Conclusions Data on players’ locomotor activities based on field position might help understand players’ profiles. This information is useful to guide clubs and coaching staff in the player recruitment process, and to support a better organisation of the training plan.

This study aimed to analyze whether there are differences and associations in the physical responses in international-level cerebral palsy footballers between official matches and 2v2 small-sided games (2v2-SSG). One hundred seventy international cerebral palsy footballers participated in this study during three international championships. The physical responses of mean and maximum velocities, total distance, distance covered at different intensities, short-term actions, and player load were collected during 2v2-SSG and the real competition. The mean velocity, total distance, jogging, medium- and high-intensity distances, the number of moderate/high accelerations, decelerations, and player load were relatively higher in the 2v2-SSG than in the official matches. Even though the 2v2-SSG could become an appropriate drill to include during the classification process, due to the differences between a 2v2-SSG and the official competition, it is necessary to deepen the scientific knowledge for developing observation methods during real competition to strengthen the relationships between eligible impairments and activity limitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the long-term performance development of rhythmic gymnasts aged 16–17, athletes enter a high-performance training phase, marked by increased training loads and preparation for international competitions. This study aimed to (1) provide an overview of methods used to capture external and internal training/competition loads in elite rhythmic gymnasts, and (2) identify measurements of external and internal training/competition loads and their responses during monitored periods. Conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, the systematic review included 6 studies out of the 815 initially identified. The most common methods for calculating external training load were hours or minutes per week. Internal measures varied and included objective methods such as heart rate monitoring and biochemical, hormonal, and hematological assessments from saliva and blood samples. Among subjective methods, session-RPE was most frequently used, along with other questionnaires examining recovery, well-being, sleep, and competition anxiety. The analyzed studies integrated diverse external and internal training load variables, delving into their impact on athlete's biochemical parameters, recovery, and well-being. Pre-competitive and competitive training periods were the focal points of measuring loads. The complex training structure of rhythmic gymnastics can complicate the calculation of training loads. Therefore, more studies are needed to explore the dose-response relationships between training load and training adaptations, fatigue, and recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to compare the values of external load measures and mechanical efficiency between male and female soccer players considering the match periods. A male professional soccer team (n=19) and a female professional soccer team (n=16) were monitored in official matches by Global Positioning System (GPS) devices (male 137 and female 144 observations). The external load variables studied were distance covered per minute (DCmin in m·min-1), player load per minute (PL in AU·min-1) and the mechanical efficiency obtained through the relationship of PL and DC (PLm in AU·m-1) over 90 minutes of official match divided into six periods of 15 minutes each. The results show that in all the periods studied, DCmin and PLmin for male soccer players were higher than for female players (ES: high and moderate for DCmin and PLmin, respectively; p<.01). However, there was no difference in mechanical efficiency between both genders. There was a decrease (p<.01) in PLmin and DCmin in the last periods of the match (0-15 > 15-30 = 30-45 = 45-60 > 60-75 = 75-90), as well as a decrease (p<.01) in PLm (0-15>30-45=60-75=75-90, 15-30>75-90 & 45-60>60-75=75-90 for male; and, 0-15>30-45=60-75=75-90, for female). The decrease in values of PLmin and DCmin were not homogeneous, so the decoupling of these values in both genders as the match progresses could be induced by fatigue. Therefore, the findings could have a practical application: coaches and sports scientists could use the mechanical efficiency indicator to detect fatigue and then apply intervention strategies to improve performance or plan recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]