The biomechanical and physiological response to repeated soccer-specific simulations interspersed by 48 or 72 hours recovery

Purpose To assess the residual fatigue response associated with the completion of two successive soccer-specific exercise protocols (SSEP). Methods Twenty male soccer players were pair-matched before completing SSEPs, interspersed by either 48 or 72 h. Outcome variables were measured every 15 min, and comprised uni-axial measures of PlayerLoad, mean (HR) and peak heart rate (HR _peak), blood lactate concentration, mean and peak (V˙O _2peak) oxygen consumption, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Results No significant (P > 0.05) group interactions were identified for any outcome variables. Uni-axial (and total) PlayerLoad exhibited a significant (P < 0.05) main effect for time, with the exception of the relative contribution of medial lateral PlayerLoad™. Total PlayerLoad during the final 15 min (222.23 ± 15.16 a.u) was significantly higher than all other time points. All other outcome variables also exhibited a significant main effect for time, with HR, HR _peak and V˙O _2peak also exhibiting significantly higher values in the first trial. There was also a significant (P = 0.003) trial*time interaction for RPE. Conclusions With equivalence at baseline, there was no difference in the fatigue response associated with two SSEPs interspersed by either 48 or 72 h recovery. The current study has implications for the design and micro management of training and competition schedules.