The Effect of Weekly Training Load across a Competitive Microcycle on Contextual Variables in Professional Soccer

Analysis of the key performance variables in soccer is one of the most continuous and attractive research topics. Using global positioning devices (GPS), the primary aim of this study was to highlight the physiological response of a professional soccer team across competitive microcycles in-season according to the most influential contextual performance variables. Determining the training load (TL), a work ratio was established between all recorded data within the training sessions and the competitive profile (CP). Each microcycle was classified in accordance with the contextual variables: opponent level (high, medium, low), match location (home and away) and score (win, draw, lose). Results revealed that the team were significantly more successful (games won) in competitive games against high-level opponents and when played at home. Cumulative microcycle/weekly training load (WTL) was significantly lower when the team won. In addition to the opponent level and the match location, WTL could condition the athlete's performance in the competition. Competitive performance responses are the main source of information for the planning of training programs. The results of this study could be used as a reference to structure TL and WTL according to contextual variables in the competition. This study, which is the first of its kind, revealed that WTL effects the performance of the players in the competition.

Automated summary

The analysis of key performance variables in soccer is an ongoing and attractive research topic, with this study focusing on the physiological responses of a professional soccer team during competitive microcycles in-season. Results revealed that the team's success was significantly higher when facing high-level opponents and playing at home. Additionally, the study found that training load and weekly training load could impact the athlete's performance in competition, highlighting the importance of considering contextual variables when planning training programs.