- Does the level of physical conditioning affect the magnitude of internal training load in young basketball players?

Abstract

 

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the ability to perform high intensity effort (HIE) on internal training load (CIT) responses in young basketball players.

Method. Twelve male basketball players took part of the investigation (18.6 ± 0.5 years, 192 ± 6.5 cm e 88.8 ± 14.5 kg). The investigation lasted four weeks, with two weeks of a preparatory period (PP) and two weeks of a competitive period (PC). Session ratings of perceived exertion (session-RPE) method was used to quantify internal training load in every training session. Athletes performed the Yo-Yo Intermittent Endurance Test level 2 (Yo-Yo IE2) before and after the experimental period (4 weeks). For data analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient was used (Yo-Yo IE2 [PRE and POST] x CIT [General (PP and PC), PP and PC]) (p < 0.05).

Results. Negative correlation coefficients, classified as "large" to very large", were observed between the performance in the Yo-Yo IE2 PRE and ITL in PP (r = -0.81), CP (r = -0.72), and in the whole experimental period (PP and CP) (r = -0.80) conditions. Correlation coefficients, classified as "large" to "very large", were also observed between the performance in the Yo-Yo IR2 POST and ITL during PP (r = -0.83), CP (r = -0.66) and General (r = -0.78) conditions.

Conclusion. The results of the present study suggest the existence of a strong correlation between the ability to perform HIE and ITL, thus indicating the importance of adopting an integrated monitoring of these variables, aiming to conduct regular adjustments on training load.