Purpose: Prescribing resistance training using velocity loss thresholds can enhance exercise quality by mitigating neuromuscular fatigue. As little is known regarding performance during these protocols, we aimed to assess the effects of 10%, 20%, and 30% velocity loss thresholds on kinetic, kinematic, and repetition characteristics in the free-weight back squat. Methods: Using a randomized crossover design, 16 resistance-trained men were recruited to complete 5 sets of the barbell back squat. Lifting load corresponded to a mean concentric velocity (MV) of ∼0.70 m·s−1 (115 [22] kg). Repetitions were performed until a 10%, 20%, or 30% MV loss was attained. Results: Set MV and power output were substantially higher in the 10% protocol (0.66 m·s−1 and 1341 W, respectively), followed by the 20% (0.62 m·s−1 and 1246 W) and 30% protocols (0.59 m·s−1 and 1179 W). There were no substantial changes in MV (−0.01 to −0.02 m·s−1) or power output (−14 to −55 W) across the 5 sets for all protocols, and individual differences in these changes were typically trivial to small. Mean set repetitions were substantially higher in the 30% protocol (7.8), followed by the 20% (6.4) and 10% protocols (4.2). There were small to moderate reductions in repetitions across the 5 sets during all protocols (−39%, −31%, −19%, respectively), and individual differences in these changes were small to very large. Conclusions: Velocity training prescription maintains kinetic and kinematic output across multiple sets of the back squat, with repetition ranges being highly variable. Our findings, therefore, challenge traditional resistance training paradigms (repetition based) and add support to a velocity-based approach.
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This study aimed to identify which physical and technical-tactical performance indicators (PI) can classify between levels of rugby league match-play. Data were collected from 46 European Super League (ESL) and 36 under-19 Academy (Academy) level matches over two competitive seasons. Thirty-one male ESL players and 41 male Academy players participated. Microtechnology units were used to analyse the physical PI and matches were videoed and coded for the individual technical-tactical PI, resulting in 157 predictor variables. Data were split into training and testing datasets (70:30). Random forests (RF) were built to reduce the dimensionality of the data, identify the variables of importance and build classification models. To aid practical interpretation, conditional inference (CI) trees were built. Nine variables were identified as the most important for backs, classifying between levels with 83% (RF) and 78% (CI tree) accuracy. The combination of variables with the highest classification rate was: PlayerLoad2D, PlayerLoadSLOW per Kg body mass and high-speed running distance. Four variables were identified as most important for forwards, classifying with 68% (RF) and 64% (CI tree) accuracy. Defensive play-theball losses alone had the highest classification rate for forwards. The identified PI and their unique combinations, can be developed during training to aid in progression through the rugby league playing pathway.
Understanding the locomotor characteristics of competition can help rugby league (RL) coaches optimise training prescription. To date, no research exists on the locomotor characteristics of women's RL. The aim was to compare the whole match and peak locomotor characteristics of women's RL competition at international (RL World Cup [WRLWC]) and domestic level (Super League [WSL]). Microtechnology data were collected from 58 players from 3-WSL clubs and 1-WRLWC team.Participants were classified into forwards (n = 30) and backs (n = 28). Partial least squares correlation analysis established which variables were important to discriminate between level of competition (international vs. domestic) and positional group (forwards vs. backs). Linear mixed effects models estimated the differences between standards of competition and positional group for those variables. International forwards were most likely exposed to greater peak 1-min average acceleration (standardised mean difference =1.23 [0.42 to 2.04]) and peak 3-min average acceleration (1.13 [0.41 to 1.85]) than domestic forwards. International backs likely completed greater peak 1-min average acceleration (0.83 [0.08 to 1.58]) than domestic backs and possibly completed greater high-speed-distances (0.45 [-0.17 to 1.07]). Findings highlight the need for positional specific training across levels to prepare representative players for the increased match characteristics of international competition.
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