Analysis of a training mesocycle and positional quantification in elite European soccer players

• Published in: International journal of sports science & coaching 2017-10, Vol.12 (5), p.665-676
• Main Authors: Owen, Adam L, Lago-Peñas, Carlos, Gómez, Miguel-Ángel, Mendes, Bruno, Dellal, Alexandre
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1747-9541; 2048-397X
• DOI: 10.1177/1747954117727851

Ensuring adequate levels of training and recovery at the elite level of professional soccer to maximise player performance has continued to drive the necessity to monitor the training load and physical training output of soccer players. The aim of this investigation was to analyse a training mesocycle whilst quantifying positional demands imposed on elite European soccer players. Sixteen players were assessed using global positioning systems and ratings of perceived exertion over a competitive training six-week mesocycle period. The positional demands and training loads were analysed in addition to match conditions (match location, match score) and player’s age. Results from the investigation revealed that typical daily training loads (i.e. total distance, high-intensity distance, sprint distance, average speed, ratings of perceived exertion) did not differ throughout each week of the mesocycle in-season period. Further analysis revealed training loads were significantly lower on match day-1 when compared to training loads on match day-2, match day-3 and match day-4 preceding a match (p