Relationship Between Indicators of Training Load in Soccer Players

Abstract Casamichana, D, Castellano, J, Calleja-Gonzalez, J, San Román, J, and Castagna, C. Relationship between indicators of training load in soccer players. J Strength Cond Res 27(2): 369–374, 2013—This study examined the relationship between work load indicators used to quantify full training sessions in soccer. The participants were 28 semiprofessional male soccer players age 22.9 ± 4.2 years, height 177 ± 5 cm, body mass 73.6 ± 4.4 kg. Players' physical and physiological work load was monitored over 44 training sessions using global positioning system devices (10 Hz) and heart rate, respectively. After each training session, players' training perceived-exertion (rating of perceived exertion [RPE]) was assessed using the Borg CR-10 scale. Players' internal training load was assessed using the session-RPE and the Edwards methods. Total distance, distances covered at arbitrary selected high-intensity speed zones (≥18 and 21 km·h−1), bout frequency at speed >18 and 21 km·h−1, and work:rest ratio during training drills were considered as signs of physical work load. Furthermore, player load assumed as reflection of total center-of-mass acceleration was considered as representative of players' external load. Very-large association of player load with Edwards and session-RPE methods was found. Total distance covered was large to very large associated with Player Load, Session-RPE, and Edwards methods. The findings of this study provided evidence for the safe use of session-RPE, Edwards methods, and Players Load as valid indicators of training responses in soccer.