Utilisation of performance markers to establish the effectiveness of cold-water immersion as a recovery modality in elite football.
Jill Alexander, Christopher Carling, David Rhodes
Abstract
and sleep (groups combined). Group responses identified significant effects for timepoint for CWI and PR, for eccentric hamstring strength peak force, sleep, fatigue, and muscle soreness for CWI. Significant differences were displayed for eccentric hamstring strength (immediately post-intervention and immediately post-training) for peak force and between CWI and PR eccentric hamstring strength immediately post-intervention. Linear regression for individual analysis demonstrated greater recovery in peak torque and force for CWI. CWI may be useful to ameliorate potential deficits in eccentric hamstring strength that optimise readiness to train/play in elite football settings. Multiple measures and individual analysis of recovery responses provides sports medicine and performance practitioners with direction on the application of modified approaches to recovery strategies, within mid-competitive season training cycles.