Exploring the Use of Player Load in Elite Soccer Players

Abstract

Background: The aims of this study were to (1) analyze the distribution of the player load (PL TOTAL ) in 3 axes of movement (PL AP , anterior-posterior; PL ML , medial-lateral; PL V , vertical) during elite soccer matches, (2) investigate the effect of playing position on PL-related variables, and (3) explore the association between PL TOTAL and distance covered by the players. Hypothesis: Despite different load distribution between axes of movement, PL TOTAL might be used as a body load indicator for all playing positions. Study Design: Longitudinal study. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: Data were collected from elite soccer players using WIMU Pro tracking systems, which included inertial sensors. Results: The axis of movement had a significant effect on the distribution of the load ( P < 0.001; conditional R 2 = 0.91), with the greatest contribution from the PL V ( P < 0.001; d = 5.41-5.86). Moreover, no effect of playing position on PL TOTAL , PL V , PL ML , or PL AP was observed ( P > 0.05). Finally, a large correlation was found between PL TOTAL and distance covered, and the linear mixed model showed that distance may be predicted by the PL TOTAL (conditional R 2 = 0.81; P < 0.001). Conclusion: Differences in load distribution were based on the axis of movement, although playing position had no effect on any variable. The selection of either distance covered, which is representative of a 2-dimensional analysis, or PL TOTAL , which is representative of a 3-dimensional analysis, may be adequate for monitoring locomotor demands or accelerometer-derived load. Clinical Relevance: Training strategies that focus on the vertical component of match play should be adopted. In addition, given that PL TOTAL is an accelerometry-based metric, which combines the accelerations in anterior-posterior, medial-lateral, and vertical planes, strength and conditioning coaches may use this parameter as a measure of total body load.

Topics & Concepts