Work

Performance Profiles: A New Approach Based on Training Focused on Physical Aspects Rather than Technical–Tactical Ones

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to identify distinct external load profiles of 23 semi-professional football players (22.52 ± 1.74 years) during four official matches (40 cases in total; 10 per match). Using GPS-based inertial technology WIMU PRO (Hudl, Lincoln, NE, USA), data were collected to analyze players' physical performance. A principal component analysis (PCA) identified three performance profiles-"Total Player," "Explosive Player," and "Dynamic Player"-that together explained 70.08% of the variance. These profiles revealed that players may share similar physical characteristics despite occupying different on-field positions. Training players based on their physical performance profiles, rather than solely on their tactical roles, may enhance both individual development and overall team performance. This approach offers a novel framework for individualized conditioning in team sports.

Source: Sports

DOI: 10.3390/sports13110402

Authors: Amalia Campos-Redondo, Almudena Martínez-Sánchez, Pablo López-Sierra, Eduardo Chacón-Fernández, Javier García-Rubio

Institution: Universidad de Extremadura

Language: English

Topic: Sports Performance and Training

Subfield: Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,172

Funders: Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades, European Commission