Abstract

CASTELLANO, Julen  and  BLANCO-VILLASENOR, Angel. Analysis of the variability of the movement of elite soccer players during a competitive season of a generalized linear mixed model. CPD [online]. 2015, vol.15, n.1, pp.161-168. ISSN 1989-5879.  https://dx.doi.org/10.4321/S1578-84232015000100016.

This study aims at describing the variability in the traveled distance for professional soccer players through a season. Average traveled distances have been analyzed in different ranks of intensity for players of a same team in the spanish second division (Liga Adelante) during the 2013-2014 season. The total distance traveled (DT) and meters per minute (m·min^-1) were recorded using the computerized system TRACAB^® system by ChyronHego at 25 frames per second, dinstinguishing between five kinds of intensity: still-moving (0-1 Km·h^-1), marching (<7 Km·h^-1), trotting (<14 Km·h^-1), running (<21 Km·h^-1) and sprinting (>21 Km·h^-1). After an initial descriptive analysis, a linear mixed generalized one was applied to the data. The results showed that traveled distances in ranks of intensity over 7 Km·h^-1 and under 21 Km·h^-1 varied more than the others during the season. This variability could be due to situational variables such as: place, rivals' level and final score. The results of this analysis could have a double application. On one hand, the physical performance of the competition doesn't seem to be the best way to learn about the team's form, due to the contextual variability of the competition; in any case, the highest ranks of intensity or the global indicators of physical performance (DT and m·min-1) are the most adequate to enhance it. On the other hand, monitoring physical performance can be interesting if considered to improve intervention strategies during the training process with the objective to optimize the players' physical performance applied to particular contexts of the matches.

Keywords : Deportes colectivos; modelo lineal mixto; variables situacionales; demanda física.

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