Monitoring Training Loads in Basketball: A Narrative Review and Practical Guide for Coaches and Practitioners

Monitoring training load provides information about the physical demands of the sport in which athletes are competing. Strength and conditioning coaches need to use this information to periodize and make decisions on training to optimize performance and prevent injuries. The following narrative review presents the current state of knowledge on monitoring external and internal loads in basketball. The reviewed articles were classified according to the sample represented, considering 3 groups: elite, subelite, and young basketball players. In addition, we analyzed the recording procedures and methodology used in technological and ecological terms. Articles were classified, considering what was monitored and the context in which it was monitored. These settings included competition, training, and small-sided games. Performance and sports injury variables were also taken into account in our review.

Automated summary

Monitoring training load in basketball is crucial for coaches to optimize performance and prevent injuries. This review categorizes articles based on the sample represented and analyzes the recording procedures and methodology used, considering external and internal loads. Various performance and sports injury variables are also taken into account in the review.