Training load and technical performance
Author: Michael Webb
Supervisors: Codi Ramsey Simon Body
24 July 2024
Webb, M. (2024). Training load and technical performance. (Unpublished document submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Applied Science). Otago Polytechnic | Te Pūkenga, New Zealand. https://doi.org/10.34074/thes.6514
Abstract
Physical training methods implemented by strength and conditioning coaches within team sport environments are becoming more methodical and advanced with the growth of sport. To better prepare their athletes, it is becoming increasingly important for practitioners to understand how these methods impact technical, tactical, and psychological components of team performance. The aim of this thesis was to identify and understand any patterns between physical and technical performance within the sport of football. A systematic review of current literature highlighted the common game-related statistics analysed in football (soccer) and the training load indicators collected alongside them. The review also identified the most relevant game-related statistics and training load indicators for sport scientists to utilise in football. The review revealed the lack of research on the relationship between physical and technical performance in team sports. The main study of this thesis was an observational study with the focus on the changes in team training load indicators and their influence on amateur adult football team technical performance. The results of this study demonstrated that there was no clear relationship between team training load indicators and team technical performance. It is suggested by the researcher for future investigations to incorporate individualised metrics of physical and technical performance when attempting to understand the relationship between these components. The results of this thesis reinforce the concept of performance in team sport being a complex system, with various influential factors on match outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the influences between training load and technical performance.
Keywords
training load, technical performance, football, game-related statistics, GPS
License
A copy of the thesis is publicly available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives licence CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International.
This licence applies except where otherwise indicated, especially for images.
