Individual changes in neuromuscular performance in the Spanish women’s national football team throughout the 2023 World Cup
A summary of the research:
The article "Neuromuscular Performance During the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup" examines how physical performance evolved throughout the tournament for the Spanish women's national football team. The study tracked 20 elite players, assessing their strength and power using countermovement jumps (CMJ) and estimated one-repetition maximums (1RM) for back squats (BS) and hip thrusts (HT). Results showed significant improvements in jump height, propulsive force, and lower-body strength as the tournament progressed. The players demonstrated their highest neuromuscular performance levels in the later stages of the competition, suggesting that a well-structured training load and recovery strategy can optimize physical readiness for high-stakes matches.
The findings highlight the importance of periodized strength training and strategic workload management in women’s football. The study emphasizes the role of monitoring neuromuscular performance throughout a tournament to ensure players remain in peak condition. By carefully adjusting training loads, teams can maximize power output while minimizing fatigue and injury risk. The research suggests that national teams should implement systematic strength training and recovery protocols to enhance performance and sustain high-intensity play during international competitions.
Key Takeaways
Implement Periodized Strength Training: Coaches should use structured strength programs, gradually increasing intensity in early training phases and tapering before key matches to maximize player performance.
Monitor Neuromuscular Performance Regularly: Using jump tests and strength assessments can help teams track fatigue levels and adjust training loads to keep players in optimal condition throughout tournaments.
Optimize Recovery Strategies: Effective recovery, including active rest, physiotherapy, and individualized load management, is essential for sustaining peak physical performance in long, high-intensity competitions.
Authors: lanca Romero-Moraleda, Ismel Mazola, Aldo A Vasquez-Bonilla, Jaime González-García
You can read the entire article here.
