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Sports Medicine
Published in: Sports Medicine 11/2018

Open Access 01-11-2018 | Systematic Review

The Use of Microtechnology to Quantify the Peak Match Demands of the Football Codes: A Systematic Review

Authors: Sarah Whitehead, Kevin Till, Dan Weaving, Ben Jones

Published in: Sports Medicine | Issue 11/2018

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Abstract

Background

Quantifying the peak match demands within the football codes is useful for the appropriate prescription of external training load. Wearable microtechnology devices can be used to identify the peak match demands, although various methodologies exist at present.

Objectives

This systematic review aimed to identify the methodologies and microtechnology-derived variables used to determine the peak match demands, and to summarise current data on the peak match demands in the football codes.

Methods

A systematic search of electronic databases was performed from earliest record to May 2018; keywords relating to microtechnology, peak match demands and football codes were used.

Results

Twenty-seven studies met the eligibility criteria. Six football codes were reported: rugby league (n = 7), rugby union (n = 5), rugby sevens (n = 4), soccer (n = 6), Australian Football (n = 2) and Gaelic Football (n = 3). Three methodologies were identified: moving averages, segmental and ‘ball in play’. The moving averages is the most commonly used (63%) and superior method, identifying higher peak demands than other methods. The most commonly used variables were relative distance covered (63%) and external load in specified speed zones (57%).

Conclusion

This systematic review has identified moving averages to be the most appropriate method for identifying the peak match demands in the football codes. Practitioners and researchers should choose the most relevant duration-specific period and microtechnology-derived variable for their specific needs. The code specific peak match demands revealed can be used for the prescription of conditioning drills and training intensity.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
The Use of Microtechnology to Quantify the Peak Match Demands of the Football Codes: A Systematic Review
Authors
Sarah Whitehead
Kevin Till
Dan Weaving
Ben Jones
Publication date
01-11-2018
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Sports Medicine / Issue 11/2018
Print ISSN: 0112-1642
Electronic ISSN: 1179-2035
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-018-0965-6

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