Training intensity distribution of young elite soccer players

Abstract The current study described the training load and intensity distribution of 30 elite Under 20 soccer players (17.9 ± 0.6 years, 180.3 ± 5.7 cm, 73.7 ± 8.8kg) from a 3-time FIFA Club World Cup champion. Session-rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE), internal training load (ITL) and monotony were recorded across 40 training sessions. Mixed-effects modeling was used for data analysis. The athletes performed 33.0 ± 6.9 out of 40 planned training sessions. Most common reasons for absence from training included sickness or minor injuries. Overall, these training sessions summed 2928.7 ± 627.6 minutes. Athletes performed significantly more training sessions at low and moderate intensity zones than at high-intensity zone (p <0.0001). The current data indicate that elite young soccer players perform their training sessions predominantly at the low-intensity zone. Training monitoring is an important aspect of the sport training process evolution. In fact, previous evidence has already shown that an appropriate intensity distribution prevents maladaptation from sports training and may optimize athletic performance. Therefore, coaches should implement strategies to monitor training loads during pre-season and competitive periods.

摘要：本研究针对一支三届国际足联俱乐部世界杯（FIFA Club World Cup）冠军球队的30名精英U20足球运动员（年龄17.9±0.6岁，身高180.3±5.7cm，体重73.7±8.8kg）的训练负荷与强度分布特征展开分析。研究记录了该队40次训练课的主观劳累等级自评（session-rating of perceived exertion, s-RPE）、内部训练负荷（internal training load, ITL）及训练单调性，数据分析采用混合效应模型。运动员实际完成计划内训练课33.0±6.9次，缺席训练的最常见原因为患病或轻度损伤。全部训练课总时长达2928.7±627.6分钟。相较于高强度区间，运动员在低、中等强度区间完成的训练课数量显著更多（p<0.0001）。本研究数据表明，精英青年足球运动员的训练课主要集中于低强度区间。训练监控是运动训练进程优化的重要环节。事实上，既往研究已证实，合理的强度分布可避免运动训练带来的适应不良反应，并可优化运动表现。因此，教练员应在季前赛及赛事周期中实施训练负荷监控策略。