Validity of the Running Repeated Sprint Ability Test Among Playing Positions and Level of Competitiveness in Trained Soccer Players

The purpose of this study was to examine the construct validity of the running repeated sprint ability (rRSA) test to discriminate performances between: i) various playing positions (Study 1), and ii) teams of different level of competitiveness (Study 2), in trained soccer players. Study 1 comprised clubs' players participating in the top local professional league. Study 2 comprised professional and semiprofessional players from the National Under-23 and Youth squads respectively, and amateur-level players from a University team. The rRSA test protocol consisted of either 6 or 8 repetitions of 20-m all-out sprints, interspersed with a 20-s active recovery period. There were significant differences in the rRSA performance between goalkeepers and outfield-positions (p < 0.01). Forwards had significantly better rRSA performance compared to defenders and midfielders (F ratio = 4.147, p = 0.02). Performance in the rRSA was superior in teams with relatively higher competitiveness (F ratio = 3.973, p = 0.02). The rRSA is a specific physical or fitness attribute of an outfield-position player, and may be of greater importance to the forwards' position. Performance in the rRSA also seems to be associated with a higher level of competitiveness and/or adaptation to resistance training. These data support the construct validity of the rRSA test in trained soccer players.