Training Load and Acute Performance Decrement in Soccer

Purpose: We investigated the association between training metrics commonly used in soccer and the acute performance decrement (APD) observed after 3 training sessions differing in exercise intensity and duration. Methods: In separate randomized visits, 16 male soccer players performed a Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery level 2 test (Yo-Yo IR2) at baseline or 5 minutes after 3 different training sessions consisting of a 10-minute small-sided game (SSG), a 26-minute passing and shooting drill (PSD), or 60 minutes of technical drills (Tech-D). The APD was computed as the percentage reduction in the Yo-Yo IR2 distance from baseline. Training was quantified using metrics of training impulse, a metric based on perceived exertion, movement load, energy expenditure, total distance, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). Results: A lower (P < .017) Yo-Yo IR2 distance was covered after SSG and PSD than at baseline and after Tech-D. The APD was higher (P < .022) for SSG (45.6% [19.3%]) than for PSD (31.9% [21.3%]) and Tech-D (9.1% [24.6%]). However, the APD response dissociated from the response of several training metrics recorded. Indeed, higher values (P < .05) were found in Tech-D and/or PSD than in SSG for training impulse, perceived exertion, movement load, energy expenditure, and total distance. Conversely, the response of the NASA-TLX broadly resembled that of APD. Conclusions: Several training metrics used in soccer dissociate from the APD observed after training sessions differing in intensity and duration, unlike the often-overlooked NASA-TLX. These findings suggest revising the combination of training intensity and duration to improve soccer metrics.