Locomotor activities of female football players: analysis of training and competition

Abstract

Purpose. In female football, a growing concern has emerged regarding assessing and monitoring strategies, particularly on locomotor activities. This study evaluated locomotor activities during training sessions and official matches of female football players according to their field position. Methods. Twenty-four semi-professional female football players aged 20.1 ± 3.4 years were included in the analysis: five central defenders, four wide defenders, seven central midfielders, four wingers, and four forwards. Data collection included 105 training sessions and 26 official matches. The Global Positioning System examined distance variables, accelerations, and decelerations actions. Results. Significant differences were observed in training sessions for total distance (p < 0.01). Wingers (5.60 ± 1.44 km) and wide defenders (5.42 ± 1.35 km) covered significantly greater total distances compared to the other field positions. During official matches, differences in players’ locomotor activities were more evident among field positions, particularly in sprinting (p < 0.01), and in the number of accelerations and decelerations (p < 0.01). Central defenders showed more distance covered in sprinting (77.8 ± 64.9 m), while wide defenders presented greater acceleration (44.3 ± 23.0) and deceleration actions (57.2 ± 26.5). Conclusions. Data on players’ locomotor activities based on field position might help understand players’ profiles. This information is useful to guide clubs and coaching staff in the player recruitment process, and to support a better organisation of the training plan.