Match demands and physiological determinants

Datson, N; Julian, R; Drust, B.

Abstract

Football is a high-intensity, intermittent activity requiring players to cover match distances in excess of 10 km, undertake periods of high-speed and sprinting activity, as well as conduct multiple changes of direction. The specific nature of these activities varies according to each player’s tactical role, together with a myriad of other contextual factors. The physical demands of women’s football, particularly around high-speed activities, are evolving as the game becomes more professionalised and, as such, it is important that players possess the necessary fitness qualities to cope with these increased demands. Physical performance testing is used within applied settings to evaluate these fitness qualities at both an individual and group level. Test reference values are readily available for football players across several different tests for aerobic and anaerobic capacity, speed, strength (absolute and lower limb) and anthropometric characteristics. Despite a wealth of reference values, it is important to note that such information must be contextualised for the specific group of players, and practitioners should engage with coaches and key stakeholders regarding the important information for match-play models and training outcomes.