Download - Soccer Fitness

SOCCER FITNESSA SCIENCE BASED APPROACH

Mike Young, PhDAthletic Lab - Cary, NC

Vancouver Whitecaps - Vancouver, BC

Opening Thoughts

Assume nothing

Question everything

“Common” sense?

Science is fundamental

GAME REQUIREMENTS

FITN

ESS T

RAIN

ING

YEA

RLY

PLAN

NIN

G

REDUCING INJURY

ATHLE

TE M

ON

ITO

RIN

G

FATIGUE MANAGEMENT

GAME REQUIREMENTS

Technical

REQUIREMENTS OF THE GAME

Technical

Tactical


Technical

TacticalPsychological


Technical

TacticalPsychological

Physical


• Players cover average of 10-12km in a game (~6 miles)

• Game is 80-90 minutes of continuous activity

• 10-12km / 80-90 min = average pace of ~7km / hr (roughly 13’ mile pace)

• Players cover average of 10-12km in a game (~6 miles)

• Game is 80-90 minutes of continuous activity

• 10-12km / 80-90 min = average pace of ~7km / hr (roughly 13’ mile pace)

“Logical” conclusion....run,run, run (slow & steady)

BUT....

Flaw of Averages

JUST THE FACTS, MA’AM

FITNESS DEMANDS

ANALYSIS OF MOTOR ACTIVITIES OF PROFESSIONAL

SOCCER PLAYERSMARCIN ANDRZEJEWSKI,1,2 JAN CHMURA,3 BEATA PLUTA,1AND ANDRZEJ KASPRZAK2

1Faculty of Methodology and Recreation, University School of Physical Education, Poznan, Poland;

2KKS Lech Poznan S.A, Football Club, Poznan, Poznan, Poland; and 3Faculty of Players’

Motor Activity, University School of Physical Education, Wroc!aw, PolandABSTRACT

Andrzejewski, M, Chmura, J, Pluta, B, and Kasprzak, A. Analysis

of motor activities of professional soccer players. J Strength

Cond Res 26(6): 1481–1488, 2012—The objective of this

study was to determine the distance covered by professional

soccer players during matches with the use of the computer-

ized match analysis system Amisco Pro! (version 1.0.2, Nice,

France). Kinematic examination included the specification of the

distance covered by 31 players participating in 4 matches in the

Union of European Football Association Cup competitions

during the 2008–2009 season. Data were analyzed based on

players’ positions on the pitch, changes in the players’ motor

activity intensity level, and match period (first or second half).

The results of statistical analysis revealed that the average total

distance covered by all players (n = 31) was 11,288 6 734 m.

With respect to the player’s position on the pitch, the

midfielders traveled the longest average distance (11,770 6

554 m) during the game. This was 3% longer than the distance

achieved by the attackers at 11,377 6 584 m, and 7% longer

than that achieved by the defenders 10,932 6 728 m. The

analysis of physical loads on soccer players during a match is

highly useful for training individualization. It provides a tool for

effective planning and for recording the loads on players, which

is an indispensable element of modern coaching.KEY WORDS biomechanics, individualization, distance covered,

pitch position

INTRODUCTION

S occer is one of the most complex and demandingsports. The most remarkable achievements insoccer depend on many closely interrelated factors.It is a very dynamic game characterized by a large

number of direct duels that require excellent motor, technical,

tactical, and mental preparation from the players (23).

Recently, much attention has been paid to the selection of

players possessing proper anthropometric and efficiency

profiles, thus providing for the possibility of systematic

workouts that allow players to achieve optimum perfor-

mance. The preparation of a player is frequently focused on

the improvement of technical or tactical skills at the expense

of developing motor abilities (2,3,17,22,27). Like many other

team sports, soccer also involves a number of various playing

positions with different physical requirements (2,18,25). To

compete at an elite level, soccer players are expected to

possess morphological and physiological characteristics that

are applicable both for the sport of soccer and specifically for

their playing position. Although significant correlations were

determined among soccer players’ body weight, muscle

mass, and work-rate profile, the relationship between other

anthropometric characteristics and work-rate profile was

found to be more complex (25).The high level of endurance, weight, and speed require-

ments results in profound exposure of soccer skills from

the players during the game. This is why understanding the

structure of movement during the match is the first step on the

way toward the rational programming of speed and strength

training (10). During a match, players of the best European

teams cover a distance of about 9–13 km (4,5,11,18,19,25),

with an average intensity approximating the lactate threshold

[LT] (2,16,21). The biggest part of that distance is covered

by marching and running at low intensity (;8–9 km) and

by running at a very quick pace and sprinting (1.5–2.5 km)

(1,5,25). The distance covered by players during a soccer

match depends, among others, on the player’s biological

potential, training level, tactical assumptions, and match

formation. It should be emphasized that, because of very

frequent changes in physical activities during a match, the

covered distance does not only represent the form of work

performed by a player. Carling (7) indicates that in profes-

sional soccer only 1.2–2.4% of the total distance during

a match is covered by players in possession of the ball,

with particular players’ distances dependent on their pitch

positions. In comparison, Bangsbo (2) notes that the average

time of ball possession of world-class footballers is from 18 to

170 seconds. Apparently, team play effectiveness must

Address correspondence to Marcin Andrzejewski, and rzejewski@awf.

poznan.pl.26(6)/1481–1488Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" 2012 National Strength and Conditioning Association

VOLUME 26 | NUMBER 6 | JUNE 2012 | 1481

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.

ANALYSIS OF MOTOR ACTIVITIES OF PROFESSIONAL

SOCCER PLAYERSMARCIN ANDRZEJEWSKI,1,2 JAN CHMURA,3 BEATA PLUTA,1AND ANDRZEJ KASPRZAK2

1Faculty of Methodology and Recreation, University School of Physical Education, Poznan, Poland;

2KKS Lech Poznan S.A, Football Club, Poznan, Poznan, Poland; and 3Faculty of Players’

Motor Activity, University School of Physical Education, Wroc!aw, PolandABSTRACT

Andrzejewski, M, Chmura, J, Pluta, B, and Kasprzak, A. Analysis

of motor activities of professional soccer players. J Strength

Cond Res 26(6): 1481–1488, 2012—The objective of this

study was to determine the distance covered by professional

soccer players during matches with the use of the computer-

ized match analysis system Amisco Pro! (version 1.0.2, Nice,

France). Kinematic examination included the specification of the

distance covered by 31 players participating in 4 matches in the

Union of European Football Association Cup competitions

during the 2008–2009 season. Data were analyzed based on

players’ positions on the pitch, changes in the players’ motor

activity intensity level, and match period (first or second half).

The results of statistical analysis revealed that the average total

distance covered by all players (n = 31) was 11,288 6 734 m.

With respect to the player’s position on the pitch, the

midfielders traveled the longest average distance (11,770 6

554 m) during the game. This was 3% longer than the distance

achieved by the attackers at 11,377 6 584 m, and 7% longer

than that achieved by the defenders 10,932 6 728 m. The

analysis of physical loads on soccer players during a match is

highly useful for training individualization. It provides a tool for

effective planning and for recording the loads on players, which

is an indispensable element of modern coaching.KEY WORDS biomechanics, individualization, distance covered,

pitch position

INTRODUCTION

S occer is one of the most complex and demandingsports. The most remarkable achievements insoccer depend on many closely interrelated factors.It is a very dynamic game characterized by a large

number of direct duels that require excellent motor, technical,

tactical, and mental preparation from the players (23).

Recently, much attention has been paid to the selection of

players possessing proper anthropometric and efficiency

profiles, thus providing for the possibility of systematic

workouts that allow players to achieve optimum perfor-

mance. The preparation of a player is frequently focused on

the improvement of technical or tactical skills at the expense

of developing motor abilities (2,3,17,22,27). Like many other

team sports, soccer also involves a number of various playing

positions with different physical requirements (2,18,25). To

compete at an elite level, soccer players are expected to

possess morphological and physiological characteristics that

are applicable both for the sport of soccer and specifically for

their playing position. Although significant correlations were

determined among soccer players’ body weight, muscle

mass, and work-rate profile, the relationship between other

anthropometric characteristics and work-rate profile was

found to be more complex (25).The high level of endurance, weight, and speed require-

ments results in profound exposure of soccer skills from

the players during the game. This is why understanding the

structure of movement during the match is the first step on the

way toward the rational programming of speed and strength

training (10). During a match, players of the best European

teams cover a distance of about 9–13 km (4,5,11,18,19,25),

with an average intensity approximating the lactate threshold

[LT] (2,16,21). The biggest part of that distance is covered

by marching and running at low intensity (;8–9 km) and

by running at a very quick pace and sprinting (1.5–2.5 km)

(1,5,25). The distance covered by players during a soccer

match depends, among others, on the player’s biological

potential, training level, tactical assumptions, and match

formation. It should be emphasized that, because of very

frequent changes in physical activities during a match, the

covered distance does not only represent the form of work

performed by a player. Carling (7) indicates that in profes-

sional soccer only 1.2–2.4% of the total distance during

a match is covered by players in possession of the ball,

with particular players’ distances dependent on their pitch

positions. In comparison, Bangsbo (2) notes that the average

time of ball possession of world-class footballers is from 18 to

170 seconds. Apparently, team play effectiveness must

Address correspondence to Marcin Andrzejewski, and rzejewski@awf.

poznan.pl.26(6)/1481–1488Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" 2012 National Strength and Conditioning Association

VOLUME 26 | NUMBER 6 | JUNE 2012 | 1481

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.

•Aerobic capacity is EXTREMELY important•Average intensity approaches lactate threshold•Mid-Fielders run the most

FITNESS DEMANDS

MATCH ACTIVITIES OF ELITE WOMEN SOCCER

PLAYERS AT DIFFERENT PERFORMANCE LEVELS

MAGNI MOHR,1 PETER KRUSTRUP,1 HELENA ANDERSSON,2 DONALD KIRKENDAL,3 AND JENS BANGSBO1

1Institute ofExercise an

d Sport Sciences, Departm

ent of Human Physiology,

University of Copenhagen, Denmark;

2Departmentof Health Sciences, Or

ebro University, Sweden

; 3Center for Human Movement Sci

ence, Division of Physical

Therapy, University of North Carolina, C

hapel Hill,North Carolina

ABSTRACT

We sought to study the physical demands and match per-

formanceof women soccer pla

yers. Nineteen top-class and 15

high-levelplayers were individually

videotapedin competitive

matches, and time-motio

n analysis were performed. The players

changed locomotor activity.1,300 times in a g

ame correspond-

ing to every ~4 seconds and covered 9–11 km in total. The top-

class players ran 28% longer (P , 0.05) at hi

gh intensitiesthan

high-level players (1.6

86 0.09 and 1.336 0.10 km, respectively)

and sprinted 24% longer (P, 0.05). The

top-class group had

a decrease(P, 0.05) of 25

–57% in high intensity runnin

g in the

final 15 minutes compared with the fir

st four 15-minutes inter

vals,

whereas the high-levelgroup performed

less (P , 0.05) high-

intensity running in the last 1

5 minutes ofeach half in

comparison

with the 2previous 1

5-minute periods in the re

spective half. Peak

distance covered by high intensity running in a 5-minute interval

was 33% longer (P, 0.05) for t

he top-class players than the

high-level players. In th

e following5 minutes immediately a

fter the

peak interval top-class

players covered 17%

less (P, 0.05) high-

intensity running than the game average. Defenders performed

fewer (P , 0.05) intervals of high-int

ensity running than mid-

fielders andattackers, a

s well as fewer (P, 0.05) sprin

ts than the

attackers.In conclusion

, for women soccer players (1) top-cla

ss

international players

perform more intervals of high-intensity run-

ning than elite players ata lower lev

el, (2) fatigue develops t

emp-

orarily during and towards th

e end of a game, and(3) defend

ers

have lower work rates than midfielders

and attackers.The dif-

ference in high-intensity running between the 2 levels demon-

strates the importance of intenseintermittent exerc

ise for match

performance in women soccer. Thus, these

aspects should be

trained intensivelyin women soccer.

KEY WORDS time motion analysis, high-intensit

y intermittent

exercise, fatigue, playi

ng position, standard of play

INTRODUCTION

The physical a

spects of elite soccer players have

been studied extensivelyin men (1,2,10,12,

14–

18,22,25).Less information exists regarding

the

physical demands in women soccer pla

yers (5,6,7,

11,19,24).Body dimensions (8)

and maximum aerobic power

(6,8,11,23)of women players

have beendetermined in sev

eral

studies. Inaddition, s

ome studies have examined the activity

profile during match play (2,24). However, the main focus

has been on total distance covered, w

hich is believedto be

a poor indicator of ph

ysical match performance, sincemost

of the game is covered by low-intensity activities such as

walking and jogging, which hardly can be considered

physicallydemanding (1,2,15).

Mohr et al. (15) studied

work profiles ofinternation

al top-

class male soccer players and the development of fatigue

during a soccer game. They fo

und that top-class male soccer

players experiencefatigue both temporarily during a game

and towards the end of a game. Additionally, it w

as dem-

onstratedthat internation

al top-class players exercise at a

greater intensity during a game than profession

al playersat

a moderate competition level. Recently, Krust

rup et al. (11)

showed that for women players,

the amount of high-intensity

running in a game was related to the training status of t

he

players. Whether the work rate profiles of women soccer

players aredependent

on the standard of play has not pre-

viously been examined. Thus, the aim of the present stu

dy

was to study the activity profiles of elite women soccer

players atdifferent le

vels duringa soccer match.

METHODS

Experimental Approach to the Problem

To study the activity p

rofiles andphysical m

atch performance

of women soccer players in relation to standard of play, eli

te

players representing 2 different c

ompetition levels wereindi-

vidually videotapedin competitive matches and

computer-

ized time-motion analysis was applied

to determine the work

profiles.

Subjects

Nineteen women national team soccer pla

yers, classified as

top-class players, par

ticipated in the study.They repr

esented

Address correspond

ence to Magni Mohr, [email protected].

22(2)/341–349

Journal of Strength and Conditionin

g Research

!2008 National Strength and Conditionin

g Association VOLUME 22 | NUMBER 2 | MARCH 2008 | 341

MATCH ACTIVITIES OF ELITE WOMEN SOCCER

PLAYERS AT DIFFERENT PERFORMANCE LEVELS

MAGNI MOHR,1 PETER KRUSTRUP,1 HELENA ANDERSSON,2 DONALD KIRKENDAL,3 AND JENS BANGSBO1

1Institute ofExercise an

d Sport Sciences, Departm

ent of Human Physiology,

University of Copenhagen, Denmark;

2Departmentof Health Sciences, Or

ebro University, Sweden

; 3Center for Human Movement Sci

ence, Division of Physical

Therapy, University of North Carolina, C

hapel Hill,North Carolina

ABSTRACT

We sought to study the physical demands and match per-

formanceof women soccer pla

yers. Nineteen top-class and 15

high-levelplayers were individually

videotapedin competitive

matches, and time-motio

n analysis were performed. The players

changed locomotor activity.1,300 times in a g

ame correspond-

ing to every ~4 seconds and covered 9–11 km in total. The top-

class players ran 28% longer (P , 0.05) at hi

gh intensitiesthan

high-level players (1.6

86 0.09 and 1.336 0.10 km, respectively)

and sprinted 24% longer (P, 0.05). The

top-class group had

a decrease(P, 0.05) of 25

–57% in high intensity runnin

g in the

final 15 minutes compared with the fir

st four 15-minutes inter

vals,

whereas the high-levelgroup performed

less (P , 0.05) high-

intensity running in the last 1

5 minutes ofeach half in

comparison

with the 2previous 1

5-minute periods in the re

spective half. Peak

distance covered by high intensity running in a 5-minute interval

was 33% longer (P, 0.05) for t

he top-class players than the

high-level players. In th

e following5 minutes immediately a

fter the

peak interval top-class

players covered 17%

less (P, 0.05) high-

intensity running than the game average. Defenders performed

fewer (P , 0.05) intervals of high-int

ensity running than mid-

fielders andattackers, a

s well as fewer (P, 0.05) sprin

ts than the

attackers.In conclusion

, for women soccer players (1) top-cla

ss

international players

perform more intervals of high-intensity run-

ning than elite players ata lower lev

el, (2) fatigue develops t

emp-

orarily during and towards th

e end of a game, and(3) defend

ers

have lower work rates than midfielders

and attackers.The dif-

ference in high-intensity running between the 2 levels demon-

strates the importance of intenseintermittent exerc

ise for match

performance in women soccer. Thus, these

aspects should be

trained intensivelyin women soccer.

KEY WORDS time motion analysis, high-intensit

y intermittent

exercise, fatigue, playi

ng position, standard of play

INTRODUCTION

The physical a

spects of elite soccer players have

been studied extensivelyin men (1,2,10,12,

14–

18,22,25).Less information exists regarding

the

physical demands in women soccer pla

yers (5,6,7,

11,19,24).Body dimensions (8)

and maximum aerobic power

(6,8,11,23)of women players

have beendetermined in sev

eral

studies. Inaddition, s

ome studies have examined the activity

profile during match play (2,24). However, the main focus

has been on total distance covered, w

hich is believedto be

a poor indicator of ph

ysical match performance, sincemost

of the game is covered by low-intensity activities such as

walking and jogging, which hardly can be considered

physicallydemanding (1,2,15).

Mohr et al. (15) studied

work profiles ofinternation

al top-

class male soccer players and the development of fatigue

during a soccer game. They fo

und that top-class male soccer

players experiencefatigue both temporarily during a game

and towards the end of a game. Additionally, it w

as dem-

onstratedthat internation

al top-class players exercise at a

greater intensity during a game than profession

al playersat

a moderate competition level. Recently, Krust

rup et al. (11)

showed that for women players,

the amount of high-intensity

running in a game was related to the training status of t

he

players. Whether the work rate profiles of women soccer

players aredependent

on the standard of play has not pre-

viously been examined. Thus, the aim of the present stu

dy

was to study the activity profiles of elite women soccer

players atdifferent le

vels duringa soccer match.

METHODS

Experimental Approach to the Problem

To study the activity p

rofiles andphysical m

atch performance

of women soccer players in relation to standard of play, eli

te

players representing 2 different c

ompetition levels wereindi-

vidually videotapedin competitive matches and

computer-

ized time-motion analysis was applied

to determine the work

profiles.

Subjects

Nineteen women national team soccer pla

yers, classified as

top-class players, par

ticipated in the study.They repr

esented

Address correspond

ence to Magni Mohr, [email protected].

22(2)/341–349

Journal of Strength and Conditionin

g Research

!2008 National Strength and Conditionin

g Association VOLUME 22 | NUMBER 2 | MARCH 2008 | 341

•Top-class players perform more high intensity runs than lesser peers

•Fatigue develops temporarily & towards the end of a game

•Defenders have lower work rates than mid-fielders & attackers

FITNESS DEMANDS

•Straight sprints are the most dominant powerful action in

decisive offensive situations in elite soccer

•Most decisive powerful movements ending in goals are

made without the ball

POSITIONAL DEMANDS

©Journal of Sports Science and Medicine (2007) 6, 63-70

http://www.jssm.org

Received: 09 September 2006 / Accepted: 16 December 2006 / Published (online): 01 March 2007

Physical demands of different positions in FA Premier League soccer

Jonathan Bloomfield 1 , Remco Polman 2 and Peter O'Donoghue 3

1 Sports Institute of Northern Ireland, University of Ulster, Northern Ireland, UK, 2 Department of Sport, Health &

Exercise Science, The University of Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, UK, 3 School of Sport, University of Wales Insti-

tute Cardiff, Cardiff, UK

Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physical demands

of English Football Association (FA) Premier League soccer of

three different positional classifications (defender, midfielder

and striker). Computerised time-motion video-analysis using the

Bloomfield Movement Classification was undertaken on the

purposeful movement (PM) performed by 55 players. Recogni-

tion of PM had a good inter-tester reliability strength of agree-

ment (N = 0.7277). Players spent 40.6 ± 10.0% of the match

performing PM. Position had a significant influence on %PM

time spent sprinting, running, shuffling, skipping and standing

still (p < 0.05). However, position had no significant influence

on the %PM time spent performing movement at low, medium,

high or very high intensities (p > 0.05). Players spent 48.7 ±

9.2% of PM time moving in a directly forward direction, 20.6 ±

6.8% not moving in any direction and the remainder of PM time

moving backward, lateral, diagonal and arced directions. The

players performed the equivalent of 726 ± 203 turns during the

match; 609 ± 193 of these being of 0° to 90° to the left or right.

Players were involved in the equivalent of 111 ± 77 on the ball

movement activities per match with no significant differences

between the positions for total involvement in on the ball activ-

ity (p > 0.05). This study has provided an indication of the dif-

ferent physical demands of different playing positions in FA

Premier League match-play through assessment of movements

performed by players. Key words: Match-play, agility, time-motion analysis, video

analysis.

Introduction

The management of the physical and physiological status

of elite soccer players relies on detailed knowledge re-

garding the demands of performance. Time-motion analy-

sis is a useful method to quantify the physical demands of

individual players during match-play (Rienzi et al., 2000).

A main advantage of the non-intrusive method is the

production of data concerning durations, frequencies and

percentages of various modes of motion and, if pitch

measurements are known, distances covered by the play-

ers may also be calculated (Reilly, 1997). In turn, this

provides crude measurements of energy expenditure

through determining exercise-to-rest ratios and intensities

of play as well as direct match involvement (e.g. drib-

bling). A hybrid of studies involving the investigation of a

variety of players, positions, levels and competitions have

produced a wide range of time-motion analysis reports

(e.g. Di Salvo and Pigozzi, 1998; Reilly and Thomas,

1976; Rienzi et al., 2000). Also, significant differences in

age, stature, body mass and body mass index have been

recently identified between elite players of different posi-

tions suggesting that players of particular size and shape

may be suitable for the demands of the various playing

positions (Bloomfield et al., 2005). In this respect, posi-

tional role appears to have an influence on total energy

expenditure in a match, suggesting different physical,

physiological and bioenergetic requirements are experi-

enced by players of different positions (Di Salvo and

Pigozzi, 1998; Reilly and Thomas, 1976; Reilly, 1997).

The greatest overall distances appear to be covered by

midfield players who act as links between defence and

attack (Reilly and Thomas, 1976; Rienzi et al., 2000).

Bangsbo (1994b) reported that elite defenders and for-

wards (known as strikers in this paper) covered approxi-

mately the same mean distance (10-10.5km), but this was

significantly less than that covered by the midfield players

(11.5km). However, the use of distance covered to assess

energy expenditure may be limited as the paradigm is

based on the assumption that exertion occurs only when

the player significantly changes location on the playing

surface. Data is therefore omitted concerning activity

performed in non-locomotive circumstances including

whole body movements such as vertical jumps, turns,

physical contacts with opponents as well as unorthodox

movements (e.g. backwards and lateral movements, shuf-

fling, diving, getting up from the ground) and soccer

specific movements (e.g. heading, blocking) This perhaps

oversimplifies a complex exercise pattern and provides an

underestimation of total energy expenditure (Reilly,

1997). In addition, measurement error has been observed

in methodologies to quantify distance covered with over-

estimations of approximately 5.8% in computer-based

tracking and 4.8% in global positioning systems

(Edgecomb and Norton, 2006). The combination of these

errors questions the ecological validity of measuring dis-

tance covered to quantify this exercise pattern. Soccer has been described as stochastic, acyclical

and intermittent with uniqueness through its variability

and unpredictability (Nicholas et al., 2000; Wragg et al.,

2000). It has been estimated that approximately 80-90%

of performance is spent in low to moderate intensity ac-

tivity whereas the remaining 10-20% are high intensity

activities (Bangsbo, 1994a, 1997; O’Donoghue, 1998;

Reilly and Thomas, 1976; Rienzi et al., 2000). However,

the repeated random bouts of high intensity anaerobic and

aerobic activity producing elevations in blood lactate

concentration are mainly responsible for fatigue in match-

play (Reilly, 1997). In this respect, the frequent altera-

tions of activities, numerous accelerations and decelera-

Research article

©Journal of Sports Science and Medicine (2007) 6, 63-70

http://www.jssm.org

Received: 09 September 2006 / Accepted: 16 December 2006 / Published (online): 01 March 2007

Physical demands of different positions in FA Premier League soccer

Jonathan Bloomfield 1 , Remco Polman 2 and Peter O'Donoghue 3

1 Sports Institute of Northern Ireland, University of Ulster, Northern Ireland, UK, 2 Department of Sport, Health &

Exercise Science, The University of Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire, UK, 3 School of Sport, University of Wales Insti-

tute Cardiff, Cardiff, UK

Abstract The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physical demands

of English Football Association (FA) Premier League soccer of

three different positional classifications (defender, midfielder

and striker). Computerised time-motion video-analysis using the

Bloomfield Movement Classification was undertaken on the

purposeful movement (PM) performed by 55 players. Recogni-

tion of PM had a good inter-tester reliability strength of agree-

ment (N = 0.7277). Players spent 40.6 ± 10.0% of the match

performing PM. Position had a significant influence on %PM

time spent sprinting, running, shuffling, skipping and standing

still (p < 0.05). However, position had no significant influence

on the %PM time spent performing movement at low, medium,

high or very high intensities (p > 0.05). Players spent 48.7 ±

9.2% of PM time moving in a directly forward direction, 20.6 ±

6.8% not moving in any direction and the remainder of PM time

moving backward, lateral, diagonal and arced directions. The

players performed the equivalent of 726 ± 203 turns during the

match; 609 ± 193 of these being of 0° to 90° to the left or right.

Players were involved in the equivalent of 111 ± 77 on the ball

movement activities per match with no significant differences

between the positions for total involvement in on the ball activ-

ity (p > 0.05). This study has provided an indication of the dif-

ferent physical demands of different playing positions in FA

Premier League match-play through assessment of movements

performed by players. Key words: Match-play, agility, time-motion analysis, video

analysis.

Introduction

The management of the physical and physiological status

of elite soccer players relies on detailed knowledge re-

garding the demands of performance. Time-motion analy-

sis is a useful method to quantify the physical demands of

individual players during match-play (Rienzi et al., 2000).

A main advantage of the non-intrusive method is the

production of data concerning durations, frequencies and

percentages of various modes of motion and, if pitch

measurements are known, distances covered by the play-

ers may also be calculated (Reilly, 1997). In turn, this

provides crude measurements of energy expenditure

through determining exercise-to-rest ratios and intensities

of play as well as direct match involvement (e.g. drib-

bling). A hybrid of studies involving the investigation of a

variety of players, positions, levels and competitions have

produced a wide range of time-motion analysis reports

(e.g. Di Salvo and Pigozzi, 1998; Reilly and Thomas,

1976; Rienzi et al., 2000). Also, significant differences in

age, stature, body mass and body mass index have been

recently identified between elite players of different posi-

tions suggesting that players of particular size and shape

may be suitable for the demands of the various playing

positions (Bloomfield et al., 2005). In this respect, posi-

tional role appears to have an influence on total energy

expenditure in a match, suggesting different physical,

physiological and bioenergetic requirements are experi-

enced by players of different positions (Di Salvo and

Pigozzi, 1998; Reilly and Thomas, 1976; Reilly, 1997).

The greatest overall distances appear to be covered by

midfield players who act as links between defence and

attack (Reilly and Thomas, 1976; Rienzi et al., 2000).

Bangsbo (1994b) reported that elite defenders and for-

wards (known as strikers in this paper) covered approxi-

mately the same mean distance (10-10.5km), but this was

significantly less than that covered by the midfield players

(11.5km). However, the use of distance covered to assess

energy expenditure may be limited as the paradigm is

based on the assumption that exertion occurs only when

the player significantly changes location on the playing

surface. Data is therefore omitted concerning activity

performed in non-locomotive circumstances including

whole body movements such as vertical jumps, turns,

physical contacts with opponents as well as unorthodox

movements (e.g. backwards and lateral movements, shuf-

fling, diving, getting up from the ground) and soccer

specific movements (e.g. heading, blocking) This perhaps

oversimplifies a complex exercise pattern and provides an

underestimation of total energy expenditure (Reilly,

1997). In addition, measurement error has been observed

in methodologies to quantify distance covered with over-

estimations of approximately 5.8% in computer-based

tracking and 4.8% in global positioning systems

(Edgecomb and Norton, 2006). The combination of these

errors questions the ecological validity of measuring dis-

tance covered to quantify this exercise pattern. Soccer has been described as stochastic, acyclical

and intermittent with uniqueness through its variability

and unpredictability (Nicholas et al., 2000; Wragg et al.,

2000). It has been estimated that approximately 80-90%

of performance is spent in low to moderate intensity ac-

tivity whereas the remaining 10-20% are high intensity

activities (Bangsbo, 1994a, 1997; O’Donoghue, 1998;

Reilly and Thomas, 1976; Rienzi et al., 2000). However,

the repeated random bouts of high intensity anaerobic and

aerobic activity producing elevations in blood lactate

concentration are mainly responsible for fatigue in match-

play (Reilly, 1997). In this respect, the frequent altera-

tions of activities, numerous accelerations and decelera-

Research article

•Players spent 48.7± 9.2% of purposeful movement going directly forward•726 ± 203 turns in a game•Upwards of 40% of purposeful movement is spent walking

or slowly jogging

Delivering Performance Insights

Performance Benchmark

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER Positional Analysis

Season 2011 PHYSICAL

COMPARISON

Key H.I. = High Intensity - >5.5 m/s

WP = With Possession WOP = Without Possession

BOP = Ball out of Play HSR = High Speed Run - 5.5 - 7 m/s

ATTACKER MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 10737 10715 11073

H.I. Dist Covered 1168 1090 1221

H.I. Dist Covered WP 705 672 751

H.I. Dist Covered WOP 385 349 388

H.I. Dist Covered BOP 70 68 94

No. H.I. Activities 154 149 164

Sprint Dist. 375 325 383

HSR Dist 793 764 838

No. of Sprints 56 50 57

Recovery Time 39 40 36

LEFT MIDFIELD MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 11469 11361 11753







HSR Dist 859 918 998



CENTRE MIDFIELD MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 11631 11544 11850







HSR Dist 783 827 905



RIGHT MIDFIELD MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 11455 11514 11734







HSR Dist 888 944 1011



LEFT BACK MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 10996 10741 11100







HSR Dist 798 773 825


Recovery Time* 38 39 35

CENTRE BACK MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 10299 10017 10420







HSR Dist 571 520 602



RIGHT BACK MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 11104 10690 11170







HSR Dist 783 748 876



MLS FAPL nPC MLS FAPL nPC

110.6 109.4 113.0 1576 1534 1696

10972 10823 12062 3166 3099 3535

4774 4786 5292 7805 7724 8527

5400 5315 5763 500 487 549

755 715 988 37 39 35

H.I. Distance Sprint Distance

H.I. Dist Covered BOP Recovery Time (secs)

H.I. Dist Covered WP HSR Distance

H.I. Dist Covered WOP No. of Sprints

Total Distance (km) No. of H.I. Activities

Team Total Analysis (excluding GK)

GOALKEEPER MLS FAPL nPCDist. Covered 5145 5168 5628




HSR Dist 54 55 64

Run Dist. 189 196 235

Jog Dist. 1125 1128 1343

Walk Dist. 3676 3684 3885


Conclusions...

Different positions may require different levels & types of fitness

Aerobic demand of the sport is high

Anaerobic lactate component is less than what many believe

Conclusions...

Linear sprinting is a HUGE determinant of goal scoring

Speed without the ball may be a bigger determinant of scoring ability than

speed with the ball

Conclusions...

The game is primarily characterized as short bursts of high intensity straight ahead acceleration punctuated by

intermittent rest periods of very low & moderate activity

Conclusions...

Due to the intermittent high intensity efforts with insufficient recovery, the sport can best be classified as an alactic-aerobic

sport

Application?

POINTS OF TRAINING EMPHASIS

Considerable emphasis should be given to developing:

Aerobic capacity

Alactic Anaerobic abilities (especially linear speed)

Limited (but beneficial) training should be done to enhance anaerobic lactate capacity

Aerobic Capacity

Aerobic Capacity

Aerobic capacity fuels the ability to perform repeated high intensity efforts when the rest interval between efforts is insufficient for complete recovery

ANAEROBIC ALACTIC ABILITIES

•Speed (especially linear)

•Power

•Strength

Quickness & Agility?

Quickness & Agility?

A distinct but related motor

pattern to speed, power &

strength

291

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2009, 4, 291-306

© 2009 Human Kinetics, Inc.

High-Intensity Training in Football

F. Marcello Iaia, Ermanno Rampinini, and Jens Bangsbo

This article reviews the major physiological and performance effects of aerobic high-

intensity and speed-endurance training in football, and provides insight on implemen-

tation of individual game-related physical training. Analysis and physiological mea-

surements have revealed that modern football is highly energetically demanding, and

the ability to perform repeated high-intensity work is of importance for the players.

Furthermore, the most successful teams perform more high-intensity activities during

a game when in possession of the ball. Hence, footballers need a high "tness level to

cope with the physical demands of the game. Studies on football players have shown

that 8 to 12 wk of aerobic high-intensity running training (>85% HRmax) leads to

VO2max enhancement (5% to 11%), increased running economy (3% to 7%), and

lower blood lactate accumulation during submaximal exercise, as well as improve-

ments in the yo-yo intermittent recovery (YYIR) test performance (13%). Similar

adaptations are observed when performing aerobic high-intensity training with small-

sided games. Speed-endurance training has a positive effect on football-speci"c

endurance, as shown by the marked improvements in the YYIR test (22% to 28%) and

the ability to perform repeated sprints (~2%). In conclusion, both aerobic and speed-

endurance training can be used during the season to improve high-intensity intermit-

tent exercise performance. The type and amount of training should be game related

and speci"c to the technical, tactical, and physical demands imposed on each player.

Keywords: soccer, professional, performance, differences, intermittent exercise

A large number of studies have evaluated the physical demands of a football

game and the effects of "tness training on football players.1–6 This brief review

focuses on aerobic high-intensity and speed-endurance training in football. First,

the physiological requirements and energy demands of match play are discussed.

Next, an overview of the effects of high-intensity training on physiological adap-

tations is presented followed by a discussion of these effects on footballers’ per-

formance. In the last section, we provide recommendations on how to use scien-

ti"c information to implement individual game-related physical training.

Iaia and Bangsbo are with the Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre, Department of Exercise and

Sport Sciences, Section of Human Physiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Rampinini is with the Human Performance Laboratory, MAPEI Sport Research Center, Castellanza,

Varese, Italy.

BRIEF REVIEW

ANAEROBIC LACTIC CAPACITY

291

International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 2009, 4, 291-306

© 2009 Human Kinetics, Inc.

High-Intensity Training in Football

F. Marcello Iaia, Ermanno Rampinini, and Jens Bangsbo

This article reviews the major physiological and performance effects of aerobic high-

intensity and speed-endurance training in football, and provides insight on implemen-

tation of individual game-related physical training. Analysis and physiological mea-

surements have revealed that modern football is highly energetically demanding, and

the ability to perform repeated high-intensity work is of importance for the players.

Furthermore, the most successful teams perform more high-intensity activities during

a game when in possession of the ball. Hence, footballers need a high "tness level to

cope with the physical demands of the game. Studies on football players have shown

that 8 to 12 wk of aerobic high-intensity running training (>85% HRmax) leads to

VO2max enhancement (5% to 11%), increased running economy (3% to 7%), and

lower blood lactate accumulation during submaximal exercise, as well as improve-

ments in the yo-yo intermittent recovery (YYIR) test performance (13%). Similar

adaptations are observed when performing aerobic high-intensity training with small-

sided games. Speed-endurance training has a positive effect on football-speci"c

endurance, as shown by the marked improvements in the YYIR test (22% to 28%) and

the ability to perform repeated sprints (~2%). In conclusion, both aerobic and speed-

endurance training can be used during the season to improve high-intensity intermit-

tent exercise performance. The type and amount of training should be game related

and speci"c to the technical, tactical, and physical demands imposed on each player.

Keywords: soccer, professional, performance, differences, intermittent exercise

A large number of studies have evaluated the physical demands of a football

game and the effects of "tness training on football players.1–6 This brief review

focuses on aerobic high-intensity and speed-endurance training in football. First,

the physiological requirements and energy demands of match play are discussed.

Next, an overview of the effects of high-intensity training on physiological adap-

tations is presented followed by a discussion of these effects on footballers’ per-

formance. In the last section, we provide recommendations on how to use scien-

ti"c information to implement individual game-related physical training.

Iaia and Bangsbo are with the Copenhagen Muscle Research Centre, Department of Exercise and

Sport Sciences, Section of Human Physiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Rampinini is with the Human Performance Laboratory, MAPEI Sport Research Center, Castellanza,

Varese, Italy.

BRIEF REVIEW

•Players operate on the fringe of lactate threshold

•Although not critical anaerobic lactic capacity may play an

important support role

•Great for training efficiency

FITNESS TRAINING

• Intensity must be sufficiently low that you are training aerobic pathways and not glycolytic

• Durations must be sufficiently long that you are providing an adequate stimulus

• For non-continuous efforts, rest intervals must be appropriate to achieve the desired outcome...too long or too short and you won’t provide the desired stimulus

AEROBIC FITNESS

Aerobic Training Guidelines

Continuous Method:

Duration: 15-60 min

Intensity: 70-85% of max HR

Interval Method:

Duration: 3-8 min / interval

Reps: 3-5

Intensity: 85-95% of max HR

Work:Rest Ratio: 1:0.5-3

Should be addressed in some manner 3-4x / week

Aerobic Training Guidelines

The combination of games and standard duration technical / tactical practices may provide sufficient aerobic stimulusAdditional work is appropriate for maintenance, remediation and during critical training windows of the year (off-season, long stretches w/o games, etc)

ANAEROBIC LACTIC CAPACITY

Anaerobic Glycolytic Training Guidelines

Interval Method:Duration: 15 - 60 secIntensity: 100-120% of V02maxWork:Rest ratio: 1:1-2

Will primarily be addressed through small sided games and / or HIIT Methods

Repetition Method:Duration: 40 sec - 12 minIntensity: 95-105% V02maxWork:Rest ratio: 1:3-5

SPEED!

SPEED TRAINING GUIDELINES

• Emphasize appropriate mechanics and maximal intensity

• Work : rest ratios = 1 : 20 - 40

• Rep lengths of 10-40m (~ 1 - 5 sec)

• Total volume should be constrained (160m - 300m)

SPEED TRAINING GUIDELINES

Adding changes of direction, start-stops, turns, lateral movement, change of tempo, jumps, headers, etc are all appropriate but should not take away from the focal

point of developing linear speed

To be fit for soccer you must be able to

sprint fast. Repeatedly.

With minimal rest.

Repeat Sprint

Ability

LIMITERS OF RSA

•Fatigue from repeat efforts is inversely correlated to initial sprint performance•Limitations in energy supply, which include energy available from phosphocreatine hydrolysis, anaerobic glycolysis and oxidative metabolism, and the intramuscular accumulation of metabolic by-products, such as hydrogen ions are key factors in performance decrement•Neural factors (magnitude and strategy of recruitment) are related to fatigue•Stiffness regulation, hypoglycemia, muscle damage and environmental conditions may also compromise repeat sprint ability

(Bishop et al, 2011)

1. Include traditional sprint training to improve an athlete’s capacity in a single sprint effort

2. Some high intensity interval training is beneficial to improve the athlete’s ability to recover between sprint efforts.(Bishop et al, 2011)

TRAINING RSA

RSA Training Guidelines

Intensity: 95-100%Reps: 10-30mVolume: <300m totalWork:Rest Ratio: 1:5-10Frequency: 1-2x / week

RSA is addressed indirectly through other training methods but specific training is also recommended

AGILITY & QUICKNESS?

Small Sided Games!

Stimulus will depend on the following variables:Rest interval between games Players involvedField size & dimensionsDuration of gamesRestrictions

Can be a sport-specific means of addressing aerobic, anaerobic, and / or anaerobic alactic abilities while

simultaneously working on technical & technical skills

STRENGTH & POWER

“Do I really need to lift?”

“...there is sufficient evidence for strength training programs to

continue to be an integral part of athletic preparation in team sports.”

“Do I really need to lift?”

Benefits of Strength Training

Enhances acceleration

Reduces likelihood for injury

Enhances power (jumping, change of direction, etc)

Improves running economy

Maximal strength is most efficiently developed using external loads that challenge the neuromuscular system

• Muscles don’t act in isolation

• Train movements not muscles

• Address asymmetries and imbalances

TRAINING HOLISTICALLY

• Multi-joint exercises through complete ranges of motion

• For strength & power, lower rep ranges, higher loads, and moderate volumes are suggested

• For hypertrophy, moderate reps and load with higher volume is suggested

BASIC GUIDELINES

EXERCISE SELECTION: STRENGTH

Exercise Absolute Power (Watts)Absolute Power (Watts)

100kg Male 75kg Female

Bench Press 300

Back Squat 1100

Deadlift 1100

Snatch 3000 1750

Snatch 2nd Pull 5500 2900

Clean 2950 1750

Clean 2nd Pull 5500 2650

Jerk 5400 2600

POWER DEVELOPMENT

*Total pull: Lift-off until maximal vertical velocity

**2nd pull: Transition until maximal vertical barbell velocity

Exercise Absolute Power (Watts)Absolute Power (Watts)

100kg Male 75kg Female

Bench Press 300

Back Squat 1100

Deadlift 1100

Snatch 3000 1750

Snatch 2nd Pull 5500 2900

Clean 2950 1750

Clean 2nd Pull 5500 2650

Jerk 5400 2600

POWER DEVELOPMENT

*Total pull: Lift-off until maximal vertical velocity

**2nd pull: Transition until maximal vertical barbell velocity

Even if use of Olympic lifts are inappropriate due to lack of equipment, low teaching expertise, or athlete inexperience; the basic principals should still be

incorporated (externally loaded, multi-joint, lower body

explosive movement)

EXERCISE SELECTION: POWER

Heavy-Low Rep vs. Light-High Rep

• 1-3x/ week

• Short but intense workouts

• 20-40 minutes per session is sufficient

• High load / low rep and / or explosive emphasis

• Train the entire body

• Use appropriate rest intervals

Weight Training Guidelines

Bodyweight strength exercises are great for muscular endurance, work capacity, strength maintenance and when facility / equipment access is limited

Plyometrics

Intensity is directly related to vertical displacement and points of contact (1 leg vs 2)

Can and should occasionally be mixed in with running

Quality rather than quantity is important

Appropriate mechanics are critical

RUNNING ECONOMY:HOW STRENGTH & POWER TRAINING CAN

AFFECT ENDURANCE

• Running economy is a result of enhanced neuromuscular characteristics like improved muscle power development and more efficient use of stored elastic energy

• Resistance training using heavier loads or explosive movements improves muscle power and enhances the ability to store and use elastic energy

MECHANISMS OF BENEFIT

•2.9% Improved Performance•4.6% Improved Economy

Evidence Supporting Resistance Training

• K Stkren, J Helgerud, E Stka, and J Hoff. Maximal Strength Training Improves Running Economy in Distance Runners. MSSE 2008

• G Millet, B Jaouen, F Borrani, and R Candau. Effects of concurrent endurance and strength training on running economy and VO2 kinetics. MSSE 2002.

• J Esteve-Lanao, M Rhea, S Fleck, and A Lucia. Running Specific Periodized Strength Training Attenuates Loss of Stride Length during intense Endurance Running. JSCR 2008.

• And MUCH MORE

Evidence Refuting Resistance Training

Myth: Mind-numbing

reps of “abs” are the

best way to strengthen

the core

Myth: Mind-numbing



the core

Reality: The primary role of the core is controlling flexion, extension and rotation

Myth: Mind-numbing



the core

Reality: Running & loaded exercises are at least as beneficialReality: The primary role of the core is controlling flexion, extension and rotation

Myth: Mind-numbing



the core

Reality: Running & loaded exercises are at least as beneficial

Reality: Rotational &

anterior (back) exercise

s

must be incorporated

Reality: The primary role of the core is controlling flexion, extension and rotation

• Refers to functional capacity & positioning of core of body

• Use static & dynamic exercises

• Whole body movements requiring mid-line stabilization are beneficial

Core Strength

Activity of trunk muscles during squats and pulls from the floor (dead lifts) is greater or equal to that

produced with many common stability ball exercises.

Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, Volume 22, Issue 1, Pages 95-102, 2008. Trunk Muscle Activity During Stability Ball and Free Weight Exercises: Nuzzo, McCaulley,

Cormie, Cavill, and McBride

Core Training

Rotten CoreFlexibility Training

ROLE OF FLEXIBILITY FOR SOCCER

•Stretching doesn’t reduce soreness

•Overstretching can MAKE you sore

•Stretching makes you weaker (acute)

•Stretching makes you slower (acute)

•More stretching = more slower

Too

Flexible?

Stretching May Not Decrease Injury

DANGER OF HYPERMOBILITY

Stew

art

& B

urde

n, 2

004

DANGER OF HYPERMOBILITY

Stew

art

& B

urde

n, 2

004

Due to the demands of the sport, soccer players need more flexibility than other athletes but as is usually the case, too much is never good

YEARLY PLANNING

PLANAHEA

OFF-SEASON TRAINING:PUT HAY IN THE BARN

UNDERSTAND THIS

IN-SEASON TRAINING

Use common

sense!

IN-SEASON TRAINING CONSIDERATIONS

• Pre-game training for those not selected

• Post-game training for bench players who see minimal or no time

• Maintaining fitness while minimizing likelihood for soreness and fatigue

INJURY REDUCTION

Many Injuries are Preventable

INJURY DATA

Here is what the latest research tells us regarding what types of soccer injuries occur:

Most common boys’ injuries: o Ankle sprains (16.5% of all boys’ injuries)o Thigh and upper leg strains (10.3%)o Concussions (9.3%)

Most common girls’ injuries: o Ankle sprains (20.8% of all girls’ injuries)o Concussions (12.0%)o Knee sprains (10.6%) o Thigh and upper leg strains (9.6%)

Amount of time lost following injury:o Less than one week (55.0% of all injuries) o One to three weeks (28.6%)o More than three weeks (16.4%)

INJURY CORRELATES

• Previous injury

• Aerobic fitness prior to season

• Asymmetries

• Flexibility deficiencies

Performance

PERFORMANCE & INJURY

PerformanceInjury Prevention

PERFORMANCE & INJURY

WARMUP

ROLE OF THE WARMUP

• Ready the body and mind for practice / games:

• Increase core body temperature

• Improve performance

• Reduction of injury

• Psychologically, neurologically, physiologically prime

• Training stimulus?

WARMUP CONSIDERATIONS

• Timing

• Physical & Technical

• Practice vs. Games

• In-game sideline warmups

• General guidelines

• Duration

WARMUP EXAMPLE

PRE-MATCH PRIMER

ATHLETE MONITORING

SURVEYSIf you want to know....ask!

HEART RATE

• Heart rate is a great indicator of training intensity

• Current technology allows longitudinal tracking of every player on a team

GPS

Tracking

Time-MotionQuantifying fitness values from practice & games

The Future is Here

HRV & OMEGA WAVE

Field tests are the most ‘real-world’ and pragmatic means of assessing readiness but may be logistically difficult to incorporate on a frequent and regular

FIELD TESTING

• Aerobic: Bleep, Yo-Yo1 & 2, XC Runs, Cooper test, etc

• Agility: Arrow head, Illinois, Pro-Agility, etc

• Speed: 10m, 20m, 30m, 40m

• Repeat Sprint Ability: 6 x 30m w/ 30 sec rest, etc

• Strength: weight room and body weight

• Power: power output, vertical jump, etc

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

MANAGING FATIGUE & ENHANCING RECOVERY

Travel Stress

SLEEP & REST

NUTRITION

• Daily

• Training

• Pre-training

• Post-training

• Games

• Pre-games

• Half-timeMan City “Nutrition Locker”

Teach lifestyle habits

Active recovery sessions?

Manual therapy

Cryo therapy

Facilitating Recovery?

•Cold water immersion facilitates recovery

•But not for the reasons you think...

Fitness is more

than just running

and lifting

Fitness is more

than just running

and lifting

Manage fatigue & player readiness

Fitness is more

than just running

and lifting


Plan, track, monitor, repeat

Fitness is more

than just running

and lifting


Plan, track, monitor, repeat

Smarter beats harder any day

THANKS

@MIKEYOUNG

FITFORFUTBOL.COM

ELITETRACK.COM

ATHLETICLAB.COM

HPCSPORT.COM

[email protected]