Rationale and practical recommendations for testing protocols in female soccer: a narrative review

Beato, M., Datson, N., Anderson, L., Brownlee, T., Coates, A. and Hulton, A. (2023) Rationale and practical recommendations for testing protocols in female soccer: a narrative review. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 37 (9). pp. 1912-1922. ISSN 1533-4287

[thumbnail of © 2023 National Strength and Conditioning Association] Text (© 2023 National Strength and Conditioning Association)
RATIONALE, TIPS, AND PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TESTING PROTOCOLS IN FEMALE SOCCER- A NARRATIVE REVIEW.docx - Accepted Version
Available under License All Rights Reserved.

Download (179kB)

Abstract

The aim of this narrative review is to evaluate the presented literature on tests (aerobic, speed, changes of direction [COD], strength, power, jump and anthropometry) of the varied components of female soccer and to draw attention to the most suitable protocols to allow practitioners to accurately track players' fitness status. The two most common field tests used to assess aerobic fitness are the Yo-yo intermittent test (level 1 and 2) and the 30-15 intermittent fitness test, due to an ability to measure multiple players at once with a soccer specific intermittent profile. The sprinting performance can be assessed on distances < 30 m, however, longer distances (e.g., 40 m) allow for achieving peak speed (flying sprint test), which can be assessed using global navigation satellite system. COD capacity has been found to be an important component of players testing and training programs, although there is no “gold standard” to assess COD or repeated sprint ability performance in female players. Lower limb power can be assessed using jump tests that can use force platforms, jump mats, optoelectronic devices, whilst maintain a good reliability. Several in-direct tests are currently available for assessing anthropometry parameters such as skinfold thickness, hydrodensitometry, and ultrasound. However, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is the most valid and reliable method for assessing body composition in team sport athletes, with the addition of bone health that is a key measure in female athletes. In conclusion, the evidence reported in this review will be able to aid practitioners, coaches, and researchers to decide which tests meet the requirements of their environment.

Publication Type: Articles
Uncontrolled Keywords: women, football, assessments, performance, training
Subjects: G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV557 Sports
G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV557 Sports > GV711 Coaching
Q Science > Q Science (General)
Q Science > QP Physiology
R Medicine > RC Internal medicine > RC1200 Sports Medicine
Divisions: Academic Areas > Institute of Sport > Research Theme > Enhancing Sport Performance
Depositing User: Naomi Datson
Date Deposited: 14 Feb 2023 11:47
Last Modified: 19 Jan 2024 01:10
URI: https://eprints.chi.ac.uk/id/eprint/6708

Actions (login required)

View Item
View Item
▲ Top

Our address

I’m looking for