Top-class women’s soccer performance: peak demands and distribution of the match activities relative to maximal intensities during official matches
A summary of the research:
The article "Top-Class Women’s Soccer Performance: Peak Demands and Distribution of Match Activities Relative to Maximal Intensities During Official Matches" investigates the physical demands placed on elite female soccer players during competitive matches. Analyzing data from 28 players across 38 matches in European and international competitions, the study focuses on the most demanding passages of play (MDP) and the intensity distribution relative to average and peak match demands. Results reveal that peak intensity demands, measured over one-minute intervals, were significantly higher than the average match intensity. For example, peak sprint demands were over 17 times greater than average, indicating that short bursts of high-intensity activity dominate these matches. The study also shows that a majority of the match involves activity levels above the average intensity, particularly for high-speed running, sprinting, and acceleration.
These findings highlight the importance of tailoring training to replicate peak match demands rather than relying solely on average intensity metrics. The researchers suggest that both average and peak demands should inform training regimens to prepare players for the dynamic and varied requirements of competitive matches. They emphasize that conditioning programs should include sport-specific drills to replicate the most physically taxing scenarios, improving player performance and reducing injury risks.
Key Takeaways
Peak intensity demands (e.g., sprinting, high-speed running) were significantly higher than average match intensities, emphasizing the importance of short bursts of high activity.
Most match activities occur at intensities above the average, particularly for high-speed running, sprinting, and acceleration.
Training programs should incorporate drills that replicate both peak and average demands to optimize player performance and injury prevention.
Authors: Andreas Riboli1, Lorenzo Francini1, Emanuele Rossi, Andrea Caronti, Lorenzo Boldrini, Stefano Mazzoni1
You can read the entire article here.
