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and sub-elite Gaelic football players. Global Positioning System devices were used to record the match-play running performance of sub-elite and elite players during the 2018 and 2019 seasons, respectively. In total, 783 samples were collected from 31 sub-elite and 30 elite players, from 1 elite and 1 sub-elite team. Comparisons were made on a team and positional level. Statistical significance was accepted at p ≤ 0.05. Significant positional differences were present between all positions with varying effect sizes (ESs) and p-values. Effect size was used to determine the magnitude of statistical difference. On a team level, the elite covered significantly more relative distance (p = 0.021, ES = 0.007) and elicited significantly higher average speed (p = 0.023, ES = 0.007) in quarters 2, 3, and 4 than the sub-elite. The elite covered significantly more relative distance high-intensity running (17-21.9 km·h-1; p = 0.002, ES = 0.012) in quarter 3 and performed significantly more power events per minute (p = 0.006, ES = 0.009) in quarter 4. In quarter 1, the sub-elite performed significantly more power events per minute (p = 0.006, ES = 0.009), relative high-speed running (≥17 km·h-1; p = 0.011, ES = 0.009), and relative distance high-intensity running (17-21.9 km·h-1; p = 0.002, ES = 0.012). Power events were defined as the estimation of the number of events that depend on anaerobic processes. The present study indicates that elite players possess superior conditioning, ability to read match-play, pacing, and anaerobic capacity. Sub-elite teams may use the present study to inform their training to potentially improve conditioning, pacing, and anaerobic capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

McGuinness, A, Passmore, D, Malone, S, and Collins, K. Peak running intensity of elite female field hockey players during competitive match play. J Strength Cond Res 36(4): 1064-1070, 2022-In recent years, backroom coaching staff have relied heavily on the global demands of competitive match-play to monitor running performance within training and match environments. Although, these figures help prepare players for the demands of match-play, they do not account for the physical and physiological stress of the most intense periods of competition. The aim of the current study was to quantify the duration and position-specific maximal running performance during match-play using a 1-10-minute moving average epoch methodology. Twenty-six (n = 26) elite international female field hockey players (23 +/- 3 years; 162.6 +/- 13 cm; 66 +/- 6 kg) participated in the current observational study. Data were collected during 22 international games, resulting in over 360 individual samples (n = 368) being obtained for analysis. Players were categorized based on their positional lines of play (defenders, midfielders, and forwards). Variables of interest included relative total (m[middle dot]min-1), high-speed (>16 km[middle dot]h-1; m[middle dot]min-1) and sprint distance (>20 km[middle dot]h-1; m[middle dot]min-1). Regardless of position, varying differences were observed between 10-minute rolling average for relative total (mod - large), high-speed (mod-large), and sprint (mod - large) distance respectively. Furthermore, as the duration of the rolling average increased, so did the observed differences (small). The forwards (119.3 +/- 19.7 m[middle dot]min-1) were reported to have the highest peak output during minute one for relative high-speed distance when compared with the defenders (100.7 +/- 19.7, effect size [ES] 0.9, large) and the midfield (106.8 +/- 23.4 m[middle dot]min-1, ES 0.5, moderate). The results of the current study show that the running performance of field hockey players alters during match-play irrespective of moving average. Finally, the data will aid practitioners in the development of sport-specific drills to adequately prepare hockey players for the maximal intensity periods of elite hockey match-play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current study was to compare positional differences in running demands and technical performance variables among elite Gaelic football teams from separate divisions. Data were obtained from a division 1 (26.7 ± 2.9 years, 179.2 ± 21.3 cm, 89.9 ± 21.2 kg) and a division 3 (25.7 ± 3.5 years, 183.0 ± 4.7 cm, 84.4 ± 6.5 kg) team. Match-play running variables were collected using 4-Hz global positioning system (GPS) units (VX Sport; Visuallex Sport, Lower Hutt, New Zealand) (Match data sets; division 1: n = 107, division 3: n = 97). Selected variables assessed were high-speed running distance (HSR) (≥17 km⋅h-1), number of high-speed efforts (HSE) (≥17 km⋅h-1), relative high-speed distance (RHSD) (≥17 km⋅h-1; m⋅min-1), and percentage of time at high speed (%HS). Each variable was analyzed across the 5 positional groups in Gaelic football (full back, half back, midfield, half forward, full forward). The same 25 competitive games were analyzed using the GPS and the Sports Code video analysis system (Sports Code Elite V9; Sportstec, Warriewood, NSW, Australia). Technical performance variables selected for analysis were total kick/hand passes, tackles, shots, and percentage of time in possession. High-speed running distance running demands were differentiated between the divisions; the division 3 team demonstrated significantly greater HSR, HSE, RHSD, and %HS than the division 1 team (p ≤ 0.05). Positional-specific analysis found that the division 3 full back and midfield positional lines had significantly greater HSR, RHSD, and %HS than their division 1 counterparts. The division 1 team made a greater number of total tackles, with significantly more tackles in the middle third (p ≤ 0.05). The division 3 team performed a significantly greater number of hand passes and unsuccessful shots per game (p < 0.01). The results of this study indicate that overall technical proficiency, rather than high-speed running profiles, differentiate division 1 and 3 Gaelic football teams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current observational study quantified players' activity profiles during a major international female field hockey tournament and determined whether an association exists between well-being measures and running performance within elite female hockey players. Elite female field hockey players (23 6 3 years; 162.6 x 13 cm; and 66 x 6 kg) participated in the study. Participants running performance was monitored using global positioning system technology (S5; Catapult Innovations, Scoresby, Victoria, Australia), with daily well-being questionnaires used to quantify player responses during the tournament. Thresholds for the magnitude of the observed change for each variable were determined using the Hopkins Spreadsheets for analysis of controlled trials. Relative distance (m•min-1) was likely lower when compared with game 1 in game 7. Relative high speed (m•min-1 >16 km•h-1) was likely lower in games 5, 6, and 7 when compared with game 1. Subjective load was very likely higher in game 2 and very likely lower in game 3 when compared with game 1. Mood and sleep quality were likely lower in game 1 when compared with game 4 and game 7. Muscle soreness was likely higher when compared with game 1 in game 7. During the tournament, it was observed that a decrease in players' daily well-being was accompanied by changes in running performance. Furthermore, changes to players' muscle soreness and sleep quality result in decreased players' high-speed running performance during match-play. Therefore, to prevent the observed effects, coaches should adopt strategies to enhance sleep quality and incorporate specific recovery modalities to reduce musculoskeletal soreness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ryan, M, Malone, S, Donnellan, A, and Collins, K. Acceleration profile of elite Gaelic football with special reference to position of play. J Strength Cond Res 34(6): 1750–1758, 2020—The current study aimed to characterize the positional match-play demands of elite Gaelic football players with special reference to acceleration using predetermined 5-minute periods (epochs). Thirty-five male Gaelic players (mean ± SD, age: 24 ± 6 years; height: 180 ± 7 cm; mass: 81 ± 7 kg) across 5 playing positions (full-back, half-back, midfield, half-forward, and full-forward) were monitored during the investigation. Player movement was recorded during 19 matches using 4-Hz global positioning system technology (VXSport, New Zealand) resulting in 154 player observations. Global positioning system was used to record total distance (m), (high-speed running; m; ≥17 km.h-1), (very high-speed running distance; m; ≥22 km.h-1), the number of accelerations (n), duration of accelerations (s), peak acceleration (m), and distance of accelerations (m). Acceleration profiles were position dependent with midfielders found to have a high accumulation of acceleration movements when compared with all other positions (p ≤ 0.05). Declines of 22 to 232% for acceleration distance (m) depending on positional line of play were observed during match-play. Less high-speed running and very high-speed running distance was performed by the full-back line (high-speed running; 239% and very high-speed running; 236%) and full forward line (235%; 229%) when compared with half-back, midfielders, and half-forwards (p = 0.01, d = 1.35–1.77). Similar trends were reported for peak acceleration distance (p = 0.01, d = 1.15–1.93). The current investigation provides a greater understanding of temporal differences in acceleration profiles of playing position. We show that half-back, midfield, and half-forwards have the highest acceleration movements; these data can assist coaches in appropriately preparing players for the required acceleration distances required during match-play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation examined the relationships between external training load (TL) measures and the session rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE) within Gaelic football players. Furthermore, we examined the effect that player experience, playing position, and 1-km time trial (TT) performance had on perception of TL. Physical performance (total distance, high-speed distance, very high-speed distance, max velocity, total accelerations, and maximal velocity exposures) and perceived TL (s-RPE) data were collected from 45 elite intercounty Gaelic football players (mean ± SD age of 24.2 ± 2.9 years; height: 180 ± 7 cm; mass: 81 ± 7 kg) over a 1-year period this resulted in 4,095 individual training session data being collected. There were moderate to very large associations between s-RPE and distance measures. Post hoc analysis revealed that the 0-1-year group had a higher s-RPE TL than the 2-3-year (d = 0.84 ± 0.33, small), 4-6-year (d = 0.91 ± 0.30, small), and 7+ year (d = 0.81 ± 0.30, small) groups. Midfielders reported higher s-RPE when compared with all positions (d = 1.21 ± 0.21, moderate). Half-backs (d = 0.81 ± 0.30, small), and half-forwards (d = 0.84 ± 0.31, small) had a higher s-RPE TL than the full-backs and full-forwards when external TL was accounted for (d = 1.21 ± 0.58, moderate). When aerobic fitness was considered, a 1.2% AU increase in s-RPE TL per 1 second increase in TT time (90% confidence limits: 1.07-2.64) when external TL was held constant was observed. The current investigation has shown moderate to very large associations between s-RPE and distance measures. When experience and fitness were considered as potential moderators of TL, it was observed that a given external TL may result in different internal responses between athletes. This potentially leaves individuals at risk of overtraining or failing to elicit positive adaptation. It is therefore vital that coaches and trainers give consideration to these mediators of s-RPE TL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current investigation was to assess the dose-response relationship for various methods of monitoring training load (TL) and changes in aerobic and anaerobic fitness in hurling players. Training and match load measures were collected from 30 hurling players (speed at different blood lactate [vLT, vOBLA], maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max], speed at VO2max [vVO2max], peak treadmill velocity [PTV] running economy [RE] Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test (Yo-YoIR1, Yo-YoIR2), speed at 5, 10 , 20 m, and repeated sprint ability [6 × 35 m]) before and after during a 12-week in-season period. Mean weekly training and match loads as determined by s-RPE, bTRIMP, luTRIMP, eTRIMP, iTRIMP, and gTRIMP were correlated with each other, percentage change in VO2max, vVO2max, RE, PTV, the speed at blood lactate concentrations of 2 mmol·L (vLT) and 4 mmol·L (vOBLA), and YoYoIR1, Yo-YoIR2 performance. iTRIMP showed a trivial association with s-RPE and a small to moderate association with other heart rate-based methods. Small to large changes (effect size: 0.38-1.12) were observed in aerobic and anaerobic fitness measures were observed across the 12-week period. Trivial to very large associations (r = 0.11-0.78) were observed between TL variables and changes in fitness depending on the variable analyzed. iTRIMP was shown to have large to very large associations with changes in vOBLA {r = 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.71-0.88)}, VO2max (r = 0.77 [95% CI: 0.68-0.82]), RE (r = 0.77 [95% CI: 0.67-0.82]), Yo-YoIR1 (r = 0.69 [95% CI: 0.51-0.72]), and RSAb (r = 0.66 [95% CI: 0.60-0.72]) with moderate associations reported between iTRIMP and other variables. All other measures of TL showed trivial to moderate associations (r = 0.11-0.66). The current investigation shows that fully individualized training load (iTRIMP) measures may potentially offer a better understanding of dose-response relationships when compared with subjective and nonindividualized measures of TL to changes in aerobic and anaerobic fitness in team sports athletes; as such, it may be suggested that practitioners should use individualized measures of TL assessment within their day-to-day practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current investigation was to quantify the physical and physiological demands of elite international female field hockey match play across halves of play. Thirty-eight participants (24 ± 5 years; 173 ± 5 cm; 72 ± 5 kg) took part in 19 competitive matches during the 2014-2015 season. Participants were monitored with global positioning system technology and heart rate monitors. Players were categorized based on 3 different playing positions. Activity was categorized into total (m), high-speed running distance (m; >16 km·h-1 ), and relative distance (RD) (m·min-1 ) due to the use of rolling substitutions. Heart rate was classified based on the percentage of players' individual peak heart rate (HRpeak) determined by a Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 1 test. Players spent on average 44 ± 7 minutes in match play. The total distance (TD) covered was 5,558 ± 527 m (125 ± 23 m·min-1 ) with 589 ± 160 m (13 ± 4 m·min-1 ) completed at high speed. Defenders covered a greater TD compared with other positions of play ( p ≤ 0.001). Midfield players covered a greater distance at high speed ( p ≤ 0.001) with the forwards having a higher relative distance ( p ≤ 0.001). The HRpeak of the players was 199 ± 1 b·min-1 with a mean exercise intensity of 86 ± 7.8% of HRpeak. The time spent >85% HRpeak decreased significantly across the halves ( p = 0.04, η 2 = 0.09, small). Defenders were found to spend more time >85% HRpeak when compared with forwards ( p ≤ 0.001). The current investigation provides normative data that coaches should consider when constructing training regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current investigation was to quantify the physical and physiological demands of elite international female field hockey across the quarters of match-play. Twenty-seven elite international female field hockey outfield players (23 ± 3 years; 162.6 ± 13.0 cm; 66.0 ± 6.0 kg) participated in the current observational study during the 2016-2017 season. Participants were monitored using global positioning system technology and HR monitors. Players were categorized based on 3 different playing positions. Activity was categorized into total distance (in meters), relative total distance (m⋅min-1), low-, moderate-, and high-intensity distance (m), maximum velocity (km⋅h-1), and percentage maximal velocity (%). Physiological demands were quantified through players peak heart rate (HRPeak), which was classified based on the player's individual HRmax determined using a Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 1 test. Players spent on average 38 ± 8 minutes in match play. The total distance covered was 4,847 ± 583 m (127.6 ± 15.6 m⋅min-1). Defenders covered a greater total distance across all 3 positions (p = ≤ 0.05). The midfielders covered a greater moderate-intensity distance (p ≤ 0.001), whereas the forwards covered more high-intensity distance (p ≤ 0.001). The HRpeak of the players was 198 ± 4 b⋅min-1 with a mean exercise intensity of 95 ± 1% HRmax. The time spent >70% HRmax decreased significantly across the quarters (p = 0.01, η² = 0.03). Defenders were found to spend more time >85% HRmax when compared with other positions (p ≤ 0.001, η² = 0.28). The current study provides normative data that coaches should consider when developing training drills to better optimize the positional physical and physiological activity profiles that best replicate match play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time of season influences performance in many team sports; however, the anomaly has not yet been examined with regards to elite Gaelic football. Global positioning systems (4 Hz; VX Sport, Lower Hutt, New Zealand) were used to monitor 5 elite Gaelic football teams over a period of 5 years (2012-2016). In total, 95 matches equated to 780 full player data sets. Running performance was characterized by total distance (m) and high-speed distance (≥17 km⋅h-1; m). High-speed distance was further categorized into 4 match quarters. Time of season was determined by month of the year. Time of season had a significant effect on total distance (p ≤ 0.001 partial η² = 0.148) and high-speed distance (p ≤ 0.001 partial η² = 0.105). August and September were significantly different from every other month for total distance (p ≤ 0.001) and high-speed distance (p ≤ 0.002). Month of season and match quarter had a significant interaction with high-speed distance (p ≤ 0.001 partial η² = 0.106). High-speed distances run in the fourth quarter in August (478 ± 237 m) and in September (500 ± 219 m) were higher than any other quarter in any other month. This is the first study to show that time of season influences running performance in Gaelic football. The findings have major implications for training practices in Gaelic football. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malone, S, Hughes, B, and Collins, K. Effect of training load distribution on aerobic fitness measures in hurling players. J Strength Cond Res 33(3): 825-830, 2019-The aim of the current investigation was to quantify the training intensity distribution of hurling players and their association with changes in aerobic fitness measures within hurling players. Thirty hurling players (n = 30; age 26.5 ± 3.2 years; height 178.9 ± 3.2 cm; body mass 81.5 ± 4.5 kg) were observed during the prechampionship training period (12 weeks). Aerobic fitness measures (...o2max), peak treadmill velocity (km⋅h-1), heart rates (HRs) at 2 and 4 mmol⋅L-1 blood lactate concentrations, and Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test performance (Yo-YolR1) were assessed before and after the training period. Training intensities were categorized using 3 individualized HR zones based on the following criteria: low intensity (≤HR 2 mmol⋅L-1), moderate intensity (between HR 2 and 4 mmol≤L-1), and high intensity (≤HR 4 mmol⋅L-1). Analysis of 1,025 individual training sessions showed that players spent 58.1 ± 2.5%, 24.3 ± 2.9%, and 17.6 ± 1.3% of time in the low-, moderate-, and high-intensity zones, respectively. The training time spent at high intensity (Zone 3) showed moderate-to-large associations with improvements in S2 (r = 0.80; p = 0.04) and S4 (r = 0.58; p = 0.03). Similar trends were observed for time spent in high intensity and improvements in Vo2max (r= 0.77; p = 0.001) and Y0-Y0IRI performance (r= 0.65; p = 0.05). Hurling players have been shown to spend the majority of training time in low (≤ HR 2 mmol⋅L-1) to moderate intensity (between HR 2 and 4 mmol⋅L-1) training. However, only the time spent at high intensity (≤90% of maximal HR) was related to changes in aerobic fitness. These results support the usefulness of the quantification of aerobic training load using HR. The study also supports the efficacy of spending elements of training time within the high-intensity zone to increase hurling player's aerobic fitness characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined the impact of different exercise-to-rest ratios on hurling-specific small-sided games (SSG). Thirty-four (n = 34) hurling players were monitored during an in-season training period. Heart rate (Polar Electro Oy, Kempele, Finland) and global positioning system technology (4-Hz; VX Sport, Lower Hutt, New Zealand) were used to analyze the physical and physiological differences between exercise-to-rest ratios across bouts of SSG. Total distance (m), high-speed distance (m) (≥17 km⋅h-1), very high-speed distance (≥22 km⋅h-1) (m), total accelerations (n), acceleration distance (m), peak velocity (km⋅h-1), and % maximum heart rate (%HRmax) were measured. Exercise-to-rest ratios of 2:1 (d = 0.65 ± 0.12; moderate), and 1:1 (d = 0.43 ± 0.12; small), resulted in significant reductions in high-speed distance, very high-speed distance, and acceleration distance. Exercise-to-rest ratios of 1:2 (d = 0.63 ± 0.21; moderate), and 1:3 (d = 1.23 ± 0.22; large), resulted in increased high-speed distance, very high-speed distance, and acceleration distance, but only after the third bout. The first bout of SSG resulted in the lowest %HRmax when compared with all other bouts (d = 0.63 ± 0.22; moderate). A significant bout-to-bout increase in %HRmax independent of exercise-to-rest ratio (d = 0.25 ± 0.04; small) was observed. Exercise-to-rest ratios of 2:1 (d = 0.65 ± 0.14; moderate), and 1:1 (d = 0.65 ± 0.24; moderate), resulted in significantly higher %HRmax during all SSG bouts; however, exercise-to-rest ratios of 1:2 (d = 0.25 ± 0.04; small), and 1:3 (d = 0.15 ± 0.04; trivial), resulted in lower %HRmax during SSG. Coaches should be aware that reducing the rest between bouts of SSGs (2:1 and 1:1 exercise-to-rest ratios) increases the physiological response (%HRmax) with reduced high-speed running performances. Coaches now have data to allow them tp best prepare for session needs with regard to specific SSG exercise-to-rest ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited research assessing the anthropometric and performance variations in elite Gaelic football. The aim of this study was to assess the anthropometric and performance characteristics of an elite intercounty squad within a season. After ethical approval and informed consent, 26 participants were assessed at the start of preseason (November), after early in-season (January), and midseason (March). Measurements included stature, body mass, sum of 8 skinfold sites (ΣSkf8), estimated body fat percentage (bf%), squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ), 5-, 10-, and 20-m sprint times, upper body and lower-body strength (1 repetition maximum), and Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test 2 (Yo-Yo IR2). A multivariate analysis of variance was used to determine seasonal and positional variations. Anthropometric variations were observed with an overall increase in participants' body mass and a concomitant decrease in ΣSkf8 and bf% (-21.5%, p = 0.002, η² = 0.15; -1.43%, p = 0.004, η² = 0.13). Performance variations showed improvements in sprint time over 5-m (p = 0.001, η² = 0.19) and 10-m (p = 0.008, η² = 0.11), SJ (p = 0.013, η² = 0.1), CMJ (p = 0.013, η² = 0.1) height and Yo-Yo IR2 (p < 0.001, η² = 0.34) noted from preseason to midseason. Significant anthropometric variations are observed between the preseason and early in-season; meanwhile, significant performance variations are observed between the preseason and midseason. Distinct positional variations are evident for both anthropometric and performance characteristics at all time points. Applied practitioners should consider these findings when implementing a seasonal training plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangan, S, Malone, S, Ryan, M, Mc Gahan, J, Warne, J, Martin, D, O'Neill, C, Burns, C, and Collins, K. Influence of team rating on running performance in elite Gaelic football. J Strength Cond Res 32(9): 2584–2591, 2017—It is currently unknown how team rating influences running performance in Gaelic football. Global positioning system technologies were used to quantify match-running performance within 5 elite Gaelic football teams over a period of 5 years (2012–2016). In total 780 player data sets were collected over 95 matches. Running performance variables included total distance, high-speed distance (≥17 km·h−1), and the percentage of high-speed distance. Team ratings were determined objectively using the Elo rating system for Gaelic football. Reference team rating had trivial effects on total distance (p = 0.011, partial η2 = 0.008) and high-speed distance (p = 0.011, partial η2 = 0.008). Opposition team rating had small effects on total distance (p = 0.005, partial η2 = 0.016) and high-speed distance (p = 0.001, partial η2 = 0.020). Top-tier teams cover greater total distances and high-speed distance than lower tier teams. Players cover considerably less total distance and high-speed distance against tier-3 and tier-4 teams. Tier-1 players ran a significantly higher percentage of distance at high speed than players who played for tier-2 teams (p = 0.020). The competitive advantage of top-tier Gaelic football teams is closely linked with their ability to demonstrate a higher physical intensity than lower tier teams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current investigation was to evaluate the variation in the anthropometric and performance characteristics of elite Gaelic football players with respect to position. One hundred forty-eight elite Gaelic footballers underwent anthropometric (height, body mass, sum of 7 skinfolds, and % adipose tissue) and performance (counter movement jump [CMJ] height, CMJ peak power, CMJ relative peak power, squat jump [SJ] height, SJ peak power, SJ relative peak power, 5-, 10-, and 20-m sprint times, and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 2 [Yo-YoIRT2]) during "the early in-season" phase. Data were split into 5 positional groups (full back, half back, midfield, half forward, and full forward). Higher adipose tissue percentage estimate was observed in full forwards when compared with the half backs (p = 0.001), midfielders (p = 0.035), and half forwards (p = 0.021). Full forwards had significantly greater SJ (p = 0.036) and CMJ (p = 0.013) when compared with the midfielders with no other positional differences observed. No significant variation in sprint times was observed across the positions. When Yo-YoIRT2 was considered, full forwards and full backs completed significantly lower distances compared with the middle 3 positional lines of half backs, midfielders, and half forwards (p = 0.00). The current study is the first to provide normative data for anthropometric and performance values of elite Gaelic football players which in turn can be used by coaches to generate appropriate training regimes to maximize position-specific preparation for competitive match-play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the current investigation was to understand the impact of pretraining neuromuscular performance and creatine kinase (CK) status on subsequent training performance in elite soccer players. Thirty soccer players (age: 25.3 ± 3.1 years; height: 183 ± 7 cm; mass: 72 ± 7 kg) were involved in this observational study. Each morning before training, players completed assessments for neuromuscular performance (countermovement jump; CMJ) and CK levels. Global positioning technology provided external load: total distance, high-speed distance, sprint distance, accelerations, decelerations, average metabolic power, explosive distance, and high metabolic power distance (.25.5⋅kg-1). Mixed-effect linear models revealed significant effects for CK and CMJ Z-score on total high-speed distance, very high-speed distance, accelerations, decelerations, explosive distance, and maximal velocity. Effects are reported with 90% confidence limits. A CK Z-score of +1 corresponded to a 25.5 ± 1.1, 23.9 ± 0.5, 24.3 6 2.9%, 24.1 ± 2.9%, 23.1 ± 2.9%, and 24.6 ± 1.9%, reduction in total high-speed distance, very high-speed distance, accelerations, decelerations, explosive distance, and maximal velocity, respectively. Countermovement jump Z-score of 21 corresponded to a 23.5 ± 1.1, 22.9 ± 0.5, 22.1 ± 1.4, 25.3 6 2.9%, 23.8 ± 2.9%, 21.1 ± 2.9%, and 25.6 ± 1.2% reduction in these external load measures. Magnitude-based analysis revealed that the practical size of the effect of a pretraining CMJ Z-score of 21 and CK Z-score of +1 would have on total high-speed distance, very high-speed distance, high metabolic power distance (.25.5 ⋅kg-1), accelerations, decelerations, explosive distance, and maximal velocity was likely negative. The results of this study suggest that systematic pretraining monitoring of neuromuscular and muscle stress within soccer cohorts can provide coaches with information about the training output that can be expected from individual players during a training session. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of global positioning system (GPS) technology in Gaelic football is the primary source of quantifying game demands. The aim of this study was to quantify the acceleration profile of elite Gaelic football. Thirty-six elite male Gaelic football players (mean ± SD, age: 24 ± 6 years; height: 180 ± 7 cm; mass: 81 ± 7 kg) across 5 playing positions took part in a multiple study (n = 154 observations). Player movement was recorded during 19 (n = 19) competitive games over 2 seasons using 4-Hz GPS (VXSport, New Zealand). The average total distance (m), high-speed running distance (m; ≥17 km•h-1), and very high-speed running distance (m; ≥22 km•h-1) were recorded. In addition, the number (n), distance (m), and the duration of accelerations were quantified. Accelerations were subdivided into 14 equal parts of 5-minute epochs (E1 = 0-5 minutes, E2 = 5-10 minutes, E3 = 10-15 minutes etc). Players performed 166 ± 41 accelerations. High-speed running distance and very high-speed running distance was 1563 ± 605 and 524 ± 190 m, respectively. The mean acceleration distance was 267 ± 45 m distributed between 12 ± 5 accelerations per 5-minute epoch. The maximum acceleration epoch classified as the greatest distance covered accelerating during a predetermined 5-minute epoch was 296 ± 134 m. The PEAK epoch resulted in a significant reduction of acceleration distance covered in the period before and in the subsequent epoch. An understanding of the acceleration profile in Gaelic football can inform the prescription of appropriate training regimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined how the impact of pitch dimensions influences physiological and running performance during 4-minute small-sided games (SSGs). Twenty-four (n = 24) hurling players were monitored with global positioning system and heart rate monitors during the in-season training period. Total distance (in meters), high-speed running distance (in meters) (≥17 km⋅h-1), very high-speed running distance (≥22 km⋅h-1) (in meters), total accelerations (n), acceleration distance (in meters), and peak and mean velocity (in kilometers per hour) were calculated. Additionally, SSGs rate of perceived exertion (RPESSG; AU), % maximum heart rate, and individualized training impulse (iTRIMP; AU) were collected. The current results show that the manipulation of SSGs pitch size has an impact on the running performance and physiological responses. The data showed that SSGs played on large pitches (SSG80 x 20 m) had greater running demands than medium (SSG60 x 20 m) or small (SSG40 x 20 m) pitches, with significantly more distance covered in all movement categories. Total distance covered at high speed was 354 ± 111 m on a large pitch, 254 ± 72 m on a medium pitch, and 198 ± 62 m on a small pitch. Large pitch dimensions resulted in greater physiological and perceptual demands on players (higher %HRmax, iTRIMP [AU], and RPESSG [AU]) compared with medium and small pitches. The current data help applied practitioners to understand further how modifying different aspects of SSGs can alter the running and physiological responses of players. Moreover, applied practitioners now have consistent information to design and optimize their training time in mixing the physical, technical, and tactical elements within specific SSGs pitch dimensions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined the effect that game design modification, goal type, and player numbers on the running performance and physiological demands of small-sided hurling games (SSG). Forty-eight hurling players (age, 25.5 ± 3.2 years; height, 178.9 ± 3.2 cm; body mass, 78.5 ± 4.5 kg) performed 4 types of SSG (possession [P], normal play [NP], regular goals [RG] and small goals [SG]) in 4-a-side, 5-a-side, and 6-a-side formats. Heart rate (Polar Electro Oy) and global positioning system technology (VX Sport, 4-Hz, Lower Hutt) were used to analyze the physical and physiological differences between SSG. Total distance (m), high-speed running distance (m) (≥17 km⋅h-1), very--high speed running distance (≥22 km⋅h-1) (m), peak and mean velocity (km⋅h-1) were analyzed as an indicator of the physical demands of play. The 4-a-side SSG independent of game design and goal type resulted in a significantly higher relative exercise intensity compared with 5-a-side (mean change: 6 ± 2%; p = 0.001; d = 1.9 ± 0.2; large) and 6-a-side SSG independent of game design or goal type (mean change: 12 ± 2%; p = 0.001; d = 2.9 ± 0.8; very large). The 4-a-side SG (619 ± 106-m [419-735-m]) resulted in the highest distance when compared with all PP (mean change: 141 ± 9 m; p = 0.05; d = 1.9 ± 0.3; moderate) and RG (mean change: 119 ± 39 m; p = 0.004; d = 2.1 ± 0.8; large). Similar trends were observed for 5-a-side and 6-a-side games with SG resulting in increased total running performance. In conclusion, the current observations reveal that 4-a-side NP, SG, and RG have the highest physiological demands with 4-a-side SG having increased running performance in contrast to other game design and goal-type games. Furthermore, independent of game design and goal type, 4-a-side SSG show increased relative intensity compared with 5-a-side and 6-a-side SSG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined (a) the match running performance of Gaelic football and (b) the decrement in match running performance with respect to position. Global positioning satellite system technologies (4-Hz; VX Sport) were used with 3 elite intercounty teams across 3 full seasons with 250 full game data sets collected. Game movements were classified according to game actions and distance covered across speed zone thresholds (total distance [TD], high-speed running distance [HSRD; ≥17 km⋅h-1], sprint distance [SD; ≥22 km⋅h-1]; accelerations [n]; peak speed [km⋅h-1]). The influence of running performance in each quarter on the subsequent quarter was analyzed across all positional roles. The mean (±SD) TD and HSRD covered during the game were 8,889 ± 1,448 m and 1,596 ± 594 m, respectively. Results show a temporal profile for TD with reductions in the second (-4.1%), third (-5.9%) and fourth (-3.8%) quarters, respectively. There was a significant reduction in HSRD in the second (-8.8%), third (-15.9%), and fourth (-19.8%) quarters when compared to the first quarter (p < 0.001). Positional differences were observed for distance-based measures with the middle 3 positions (half-back, midfield, and half-forward) completing the highest running performances. These positions also showed increased decrements in TD and HSRD and SD across quarters. The current data indicate a reduction in exercise intensity over the duration of elite Gaelic football match-play. It is unclear if this reduction is because of fatigue, pacing, contextual factors, or nutritional strategies employed by players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined the association between individual internal training load (individualized training impulse, iTRIMP) and aerobic fitness variables in male hurling players. Twenty hurling players (age, 25.5 ± 3.2 years; height, 178.9 ± 3.2 cm; body mass, 78.5 ± 4.5 kg) performed treadmill testing for ...O2max, running economy (RE), and the speed at blood lactate concentrations of 2 mmol$L21 (S2) and 4 mmol⋅L-1 (S4) on separate occasions before and after an 8-week training period. The Yo-Yo intermittent recovery (Yo-YoIR1, Yo-YoIR2) test performance were also assessed before and after the training period. Individualized training impulse was calculated using the blood lactate and heart rate profile of each individual player and was further assessed for each training session across the intervention period (n = 990). The results showed that iTRIMP had large to very large association with the percentage improvements in ...O2max (r= 0.77; p = 0.002; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.38-0.93, very large), RE (r = 0.78; p = 0.002; 95% CI, 0.40-0.93; very large), S2 (r = 0.64; p = 0.004; 95% CI, from 0.25 to 0.85; large), S4 (r = 0.78; p = 0.003; 95% CI, 0.45-0.85; very large), Yo-YoIR1 (r = 0.69; p = 0.003; 95% CI, 0.45-0.92; large), and Yo-YoIR2 (r = 0.60; p = 0.005; 95% CI, 0.45-0.92; large) performance. The study shows that iTRIMP is a means of quantifying training load in team sports and can be used to prescribe training for the maintenance or improvement of aerobic fitness during the competitive season with strong relationships seen between weekly iTRIMP measures and improvements in aerobic fitness measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]