Effect of different training strategies with the use of weight vests on the internal load in volleyball athletes

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to compare the internal load coming from different training strategies in volleyball athletes and that planned by the coach. Seventeen male athletes (22.8 ± 2.9 years of age), national university level, participated in a training period and were randomized into three groups: Plyometric training with weight vests (PVG), technical-tactical training with weight vests (TVG) and control group (CG). Vests were equal to 7.5% body mass (BM) and all groups participated in the same training routines. Six training weeks were monitored from the method of ratings of perceived exertion (Session-RPE). Prior to sessions, the coach ranked Session-RPE estimation based on the previously prepared planning and after sessions, the Session-RPE of each athlete was recorded to analyze the cumulative total weekly training load (Cumulative-TWTL). One-way ANOVA was used to compare Cumulative-TWTL among groups and to compare the Session-RPE of groups in each session with that predicted by the coach. No difference in Cumulative-TWTL among groups was observed (p<0.05) and only in session 21, the Session-RPE of CG was higher than that predicted by the coach (p<0.05). It was concluded that the use of weight vests (7.5% BM) did not alter the training responses in the study athletes, with Session-RPE being in line with the load planned by the coach.